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

Wellbeing strategy as a risk mitigation tool

Underpaid café manager wins back wage arrears, holiday pay

Redefining leadership: Millennials at the helm

Consultant cries 'predetermined' redundancy, says she was 'targeted' by restructure

Most Read Articles

Social media case highlights questions of employer H&S obligations

Millennials had to 'speak up’ to get recognition

'Remove the shackles': EMA seeks employment changes as new government steps in