Skanska USA, one of the world’s leading construction and project development firms, today announced the promotion of Mel Jones to National Director of Diversity & Inclusion (D&I). Skanska’s D&I efforts focus on recruiting a large and diverse pool of talent, creating an inclusive workplace culture, and developing a diverse pool of talent -- both internally and through our partnerships.
Jones joined Skanska in 2010 as diversity manager for the company’s Northwest region where he created and oversaw the award-winning Boost Program, a Mentor Protégé initiative. As National Director of Diversity & Inclusion, Mel will focus on the implementation of Skanska USA’s National Diversity & Inclusion strategies and the achievement of the firm's diversity-related targets.
“Mel’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has helped us create a more innovative workplace that taps into the many talents of our employees,” said Maja Egnell, VP HR, Talent Development and Diversity.
In addition to his role at Skanska, Jones is a past member of the board of directors of Vantage Point, an organization that helps fill the need of Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation in commerce, and a current community organizer for the Black Citizen's Coalition of Portland Neighborhoods. In 2012, he was selected as one of “America’s Top Diversity Champions” by DiversityBusiness.com, a leading multicultural business website.
His professional career includes nearly 20 years of experience in land use and civil design, most recently as owner of Rucker LDC, a land development consulting firm.