In some meetings, certain c-suite executives have used the term “exploit” when referring to specific subcultural and ethnic groups. Additionally, there is a noticeable lack of diversity in executive roles, particularly among Black employees. This is significant from both a cultural and business perspective: Black culture, and the influence of hip hop in particular, has been a foundational element in the company—without it, neither Ecko Unltd. nor its offshoot, Complex, would have existed. (And even if they had, would they have been as cool? Probably not.)
From a business standpoint, a leadership team with limited demographic and socio-economic diversity may face challenges in understanding and sevicing the next generation's POV. Recruiting external candidates from your limited social circle rather than developing internal talent or cultivating raw talent restricts the infusion of fresh perspectives and multicultural marketing expertise.
