Foto von René Schaar.

Welcome!

My name is René Schaar. As a certified Diversity Manager, I support organizations in creating non-discriminatory work environments that lead to better employee retention, innovation and long-term success. In doing so, I develop measurable strategies for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB). I am currently deputy head of the “Equality and Diversity” department at Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR).

Role models create participation

My favorite ice cream: Pistachio. My favorite character on television: Elin. I successfully advocated for the first character with a visible disability on German Sesame Street. This earned NDR the Senator Neumann Prize for Inclusion in 2023.

Background and commitment

I am the son of a single mother and hairdresser, was born with a physical disability and am involved in volunteering, including as a values ambassador for GermanDream and as a member of the Hamburg State Advisory Council for the Participation of People with Disabilities.

Regulatory expertise

My work fulfills key regulatory and legal requirements. These include the CSRD, the German Social Code Book IX, the General Equal Treatment Act and the Accessibility Strengthening Act. All in line with the United Nations’ global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mission: belonging for all

I help organizations to create inclusive work environments that foster innovation, empower employees and promote inclusion.

DEIB strategies in action

These strategies help organizations to enable real participation and meet compliance requirements:

  • Intersectional: Focus on lived experiences of marginalized groups.
  • Universal: DEIB must be integrated into every step of the organization.
  • Inclusive: Communication non-violent and non-stereotypical.
  • Measurable: Data-driven reporting based on regulatory requirements.
  • Fact-based: DEIB supported by research and clear facts.

Topics in focus

  • Social sustainability in ESG reporting, CSRD and UN SDGs
  • Self-ID and employee surveys
  • Disability, participation and ableism
  • Avoiding “diversity washing” and tokenism
  • Crisis communication and anti-discrimination
  • Lack of representation in the media
  • Sensitivity reading and inclusive design

Connect?

Let’s talk! I’m also active on LinkedIn.
Do you need more info or a photo of me?

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