Dr. Zaheer Ahmad MBE
Diversity, Equality & Inclusion | Expert Panelist for The HR World
Head of Unifying Culture at BDO
Dr. Zaheer Ahmad MBE is a globally recognised thought leader on inclusion, belonging and workplace culture, whose work has influenced organisations across the private and public sectors. He is currently Head of Unifying Culture at BDO, where he leads the firm’s strategic agenda across inclusion and belonging, social mobility and citizenship, with a focus on strengthening organisational culture, removing barriers to progression and creating sustainable social impact.
Zaheer has held senior leadership roles across organisations including Haleon, GSK, EY and the UK Police Service. His work has focused on developing evidence-led approaches that integrate inclusion into organisational culture, leadership, governance and business performance.
A decorated former police officer, Zaheer served in a range of operational and specialist roles and contributed to several national policing boards, including the Ministerial Progression Board and the National Equality, Diversity and Human Rights Board.
Zaheer is a Visiting Professor at York St John University and an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Fellow at the University of East London, reflecting his contribution to the development of contemporary thinking and practice in inclusion and organisational culture. He also holds a non-executive role within the NHS, where he chairs the Board’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
Since 2022, Zaheer has served as an Independent Panel Member for the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standards, supporting Premier League and English Football League clubs in strengthening their approaches to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
Zaheer has received more than 50 national and international honours, awards and recognitions for his contribution to inclusion and equality, including the British Diversity Award, European Diversity Award and Global Equality Award. His work continues to influence senior leaders, boards, and organisations, with a particular focus on moving inclusion beyond aspiration to evidence, accountability, and meaningful organisational impact.
