Kohl’s Shifts DEI Strategy, Updates Officer Title & Supplier Program

Kohl’s has changed the title of its Chief DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) Officer and expanded its supplier diversity program following calls to end certain DEI practices in the private sector. Michelle Banks, previously Chief DEI Officer, is now Chief Inclusion and Belonging Officer.

The company is broadening its supplier diversity program to include qualified small businesses. Banks, who joined Kohl’s in 2010, was appointed DEI Chief in 2021. Bloomberg reported that Kohl’s has removed DEI references from its website, replacing them with “inclusion and belonging.” The company follows similar moves by other corporations. Banks stated that the company has evolved its approach to focus on inclusion and belonging while continuing its commitment to supporting diverse suppliers.