“I have the opportunity to impact diversity in a very major way,” said David Walker.
“Being a person of color, I’m able to provide a perspective that would probably not be heard. This is an excellent opportunity to impact diversity – how we as a region think about our recruiting tactics, techniques and strategies.”
Walker is regional talent strategist in Human Resources at Brown Shoe, which has its own diversity initiatives. But he is speaking here of his work representing the company in partnership with the Regional Commerce and Growth Association. They are working together to help recruit and retain talent in the St. Louis region to impact economic development.
Currently, Walker is working with RCGA on a plan to market St. Louis with the help of senior vice president, human resources and chief talent officer for Brown Shoe, Douglas W. Koch.
Around the office, Walker chairs the Brown Inclusion Group (BIG). BIG is a volunteer-based diversity initiative that is owned by employees of Brown Shoe.
Brown Shoe encourages associates to embrace diversity. The program is designed to increase awareness and acceptance of the diverse qualities that make everyone unique and valuable to the company and community.
According to the company, BIG empowers Brown Shoe associates to celebrate diversity by participating in activities that support, encourage and embrace diversity, both inside and outside of the company.
“We want to make sure our company mirrors our customers. It’s important to have an employer that mirrors your customers and gives the customer confidence in you and your product,” Walker said.
“Diversity spawns innovation and creativity within the organization,” Walker said.
In 2007 Walker was hired by Brown Shoe in Philadelphia and relocated to St. Louis in 2008.
“I like being here, because there’s a huge opportunity to have an impact in the area,” Walker said.
“Here in St. Louis, there are mounds of opportunities to get involved and make a difference, not only in the community but to make a change in your respective industry.”
Walker attends St. John’s United Church of Christ, where he sings in the choir and helps with culinary preparation. Walker is also part of the St. Louis chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and is an advisor for the Kappa League and Junior Kappa League.
Walker is the president of the national group of the Jackie Robinson Alumni Association. Six years ago Brown Shoe partnered with the association to provide scholarships and professional development for minority students.
Walker also is part of the Accelerated Career Track Program, where graduates of college who want to pursue a career at Brown Shoe are able to learn in multiple areas at Brown Shoe.
Walker is a South Carolina native who graduated from Emory University with a degree in neuroscience and behavioral biology. In the fall of this year he will get his MBA at Washington University.
“Dealing with the region you have to make sure you communicate with people of all levels,” Walker said.
Brown Shoe is a $2.3 billion global retailer and wholesaler of footwear with more than 13,000 employees around the globe. For more information, visit brownshoe.com/careers.
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“Diversity spawns innovation and creativity within the organization.” – David Walker, Brown Shoe
