Tech giant fills inaugural HR role

The cloud computing company poached a Microsoft exec to become its first ever chief equality officer.

Tech giant fills inaugural HR role
A leading cloud computing company has created a storm in the HR world after poaching a top Microsoft exec to become its inaugural chief equality officer.

Washington-based Tony Prophet joins Salesforce following a two-year stint at Microsoft, where he was most recently employed as the VP of education marketing – a role which included overseeing the company’s efforts to reach more students.

While in this position, Prophet launched a number of social initiatives including Blacks at Microsoft and BlackLight – an organization for empowering black marketers.

“Tony will be an incredible addition to our leadership team as our first chief equality officer,” said Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff. “His experience as a leader in technology companies and his deep commitment to social issues make him the perfect fit for this key role.”

Prophet, who also enjoyed an eight-year stretch at HP – will be responsible for a number of company initiatives including diversity, equal pay, social activism, and inclusion.

Prophet and Benioff – who have been friends for many years – both share an ardent interest in philanthropy with the former being a supporter of the new Benioff Children’s Hospital in San Francisco.

Prophet also helps with non-profits in the area, particularly those working on child healthcare, educational opportunities for low-income teens and HIV-positive women.

Recent stories:

Big bank considers corporate hijab

Fashion giant reveals industry’s HR secrets

Which traits are most important to HR?
 

Recent articles & video

AFN chief claims she was 'exonerated' by workplace investigation

Seeing a talent exodus? Maybe you're making this big HR mistake

Reminder to report safety concerns not a threat of discipline: board

Ottawa launches new immigration selection program

Most Read Articles

How to lead with kindness, according to PepsiCo's chief design officer

Immigrants to Quebec must be able to speak, write in French

Lawyer apologizes for citing ChatGPT-generated cases in court