Careers & Conversations

PAVING THE WAY FOR LGBTQIA+ INCLUSION IN THE CORPORATE WORLD

In a world where acceptance and inclusivity are becoming the cornerstones of progressive workplaces, people like Codey Wynne are leading the charge for change. As a proud gay cisgender man, Codey's bold commitment to authenticity has made him a trailblazer in the pursuit of LGBTQIA+ inclusion.             
At RSM, we are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best. We celebrate Pride Month not only as a symbolic gesture but as a reminder of our ongoing commitment to fostering a workplace that welcomes and supports people from all backgrounds.       
 

Meet Codey Wynne - Personal Assistant to the Chief Executive Partner (CEP)

Codey works as a personal assistant (PA) to the Chief Executive Partner (CEP) at RSM Australia. Being one of the few openly gay male personal assistants to a CEO, Codey understands the significance of his presence in a field that is traditionally dominated by women. By challenging stereotypes, he aims to break down barriers and inspire others to challenge preconceived notions.

Amongst his professional goals, Codey wants to normalise being gay in the workplace.   

"It's difficult to do our best work and be our best selves when we're hiding a significant part of who we are."   
 

FACING ADVERSITY AND DISCRIMINATION WITH GRACE

Codey Wynne's journey to embrace his true self has been a challenging one. After coming out at the tender age of 12, he has faced a range of responses to his sexuality – from supportive to ignorant and openly hostile. Despite negative experiences that include eggs thrown at him, derogatory slurs and public shaming for holding his partner’s hand, Codey has endured it all with remarkable grace.

“I am naturally an emotional person, but I refuse to let the hurtful words and actions of others affect me. Instead, I channel those emotions to strengthen my determination.”        
By sharing his story and refusing to be silenced, Codey aims to create a society where love, acceptance and understanding triumph over prejudice and discrimination.

BEING LGBTQIA+ IN THE WORKPLACE

Codey also faced barriers in his professional life, and they almost led him to abandon his career. 

Codey had to contend with toxic workplace cultures where he was made to feel small and treated as if he lacked the capabilities to succeed. Codey believed that he would never return to the corporate world, but a friend recommended working at RSM. 

THE INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE CULTURE AT RSM

“Working for RSM has been a transformative experience that has completely changed my perceptions of corporate work.”

From the moment Codey joined RSM, he felt welcome and included. 

“When I first joined RSM, it happened to be during World Pride, and I was deeply moved by the thoughtful efforts taken to commemorate the occasion. I knew then that this would be a supportive space for LGBT+ employees and it made me feel comfortable to express my identity without being afraid of judgment or discrimination.”

“What sets RSM apart is the way people interact with one another. My role is very high-profile, interacting with people in all areas of the business and I have consistently been met with nothing but kindness and respect.”

WITNESSING POSITIVE CHANGES IN LGBTQIA+ INCLUSION

During his time at RSM, Codey has witnessed positive changes in the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

"The level of support we offer as a collective is truly beautiful. We have made significant strides in raising awareness and promoting diversity, including aspects related to cultures and backgrounds."

“I would love to see RSM celebrate all forms of diversity together as a firm. Sometimes we get to see an amazing event or workshop happening at one office but there might be nothing going on at ours. I do think that’s an area we need to work on – coordinating nationally so that everyone can feel valued and included in our diversity journey. I want us all to stand together."

Despite this, Codey is overall enthusiastic about the inclusive culture at RSM. 

“It is an ongoing process, and I am optimistic that RSM will continue to progress and evolve towards greater LGBTQIA+ inclusion and overall diversity.”

DRIVING LGBTQIA+ INCLUSION AND REPRESENTATION AT RSM

Codey views his role at RSM as an opportunity to foster inclusivity and inspire others in the field.

“Representation matters. I want to show the world that we are ordinary people who can thrive in our careers. By being visible and successful in my role, I can show that sexual orientation has no bearing on ability.”