Jonathan Winston, the Managing Director of Winston Solicitors has warned of the impact Donald Trump’s presidency could have on the marketing sector.
The employment lawyer believes there could be “detrimental legal and financial implications” on the sector, particularly in relation to Trump’s plans to abolish diversity, equality, and inclusion initiatives and his strict return to office mandate.
“In just a matter of weeks, America’s plans to abolish diversity, equity and inclusion [DEI] initiatives has sent shockwaves across major multinational corporations through to SMEs. As an employment lawyer, I’ve already noticed a clear change in mood towards DEI amongst many marketing firms here in the UK that could have significant legal and financial implications,’ he said.
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“Smaller businesses are reconsidering their DEI commitments, whilst I believe some larger firms are quietly scaling back their efforts. This is happening just as the government plans to expand workers’ rights – creating a direct conflict between American corporate influence and UK employment law.”
In the US many firms have already scaled back their diversity policies.
“This uncertainty comes at a time when UK businesses are already grappling with economic stagnation and rising costs, with a retreat from DEI policies potentially exposing marketing employers to discrimination claims, reputational damage and difficulties in attracting top talent,” continued Winston.
“With the US moving in the opposite direction from the UK on workplace rights and inclusion, a legal and cultural collision seems inevitable. I believe marketer businesses must be proactive in ensuring compliance with domestic employment laws rather than being swayed by what is happening in America.
“As the global business landscape shifts, we’d urge marketing employers to remain committed to fair and inclusive workplace policies, protecting both their employees and steering clear of any legal and financial pitfalls.”
As has already been reported on Prolific North, return-to-work is a trend that has already started at some marketing groups.
“Donald’s Trump call for workers to be office-based on a full-time basis is already affecting the status quo amongst UK employers,” he added.
“If UK businesses follow suit, which they are already doing, this will inevitably lead to a rise in employment tribunals, as employers feel more empowered to change work from home patterns that will lead to legal challenges and tension in the workplace.”
John Winston is the Managing Director of Winston Solicitors in Leeds.
