Alfonso (AJ) Francavilla

ALFONSO FRANCAVILLA

SENIOR DIRECTOR, DIGITAL EXPERIENCES NORTH AMERICA,
SODEXO

What do you believe is your responsibility to this moment in history?

Whether with work, family, or community, there is still much to do when it comes to visibility and progress towards inclusion. What is my responsibility? I ask myself, am I doing everything I can for my LGBTQ+ and Ally communities? Am I effectively amplifying our calls for equity and inclusion in our workplaces? Did I create a safe space for others to come out? Am I driving allyship through educational opportunities? Until all those answers are yes, it’s my commitment to keep advocating for progress.

Alfonso (AJ) Francavilla believes being a visible LGBTQ+ colleague (or advocate) is an opportunity to share that you can be exactly who you are meant to be, and that employers, colleagues and partners are essential to creating a safe space to bring your full self to work. Ideally, this enables more individuals to come out and lead in the workplace. In turn, this will lead to a more inclusive and equitable space for all. AJ should know, as he has been living by this example and engaging on every level at Sodexo.

Sodexo is a global company operating in more than 50 countries. While they have made some positive strides in the United States, many other geographies where they operate still have oppressive laws and policies for those in the LGBTQ+ community. AJ is grateful to have the opportunity to globally influence how Sodexo supports and engages the LGBTQ+ community as evidenced by AJ’s ability to leverage his voice and access for good. Arguably, the most impactful thing for LGBTQ+ Allies to do is to be heard, be visible and be authentic and AJ does it all quite well.

Charity Chandler, a D&I colleague at Sodexo, shared that AJ is a “sponsor of other young leaders, elevating them so they have opportunities for executive-level interactions.” Throughout his career, he has led by example by being a visible advocate for his colleagues and by elevating the voices of new LGBTQ+ team members to ensure there is a pipeline for leadership opportunities. AJ is proud of the work his Sodexo team has done for the business, their partners and the communities in which they serve. 

Sodexo PRIDE USA EBRG Highlight: http://txpl.us/4cgw