As Chief People Officer, Vernon is responsible for nurturing a culture that attracts, develops and retains talent which helps DI reach its bold mission:  to liberate people from mediocre experiences.  The people portion of DI’s mission statement underscores a long-held philosophy from Vernon:  humans drive organizations, not resources and it’s what ultimately attracted him to DI.

In addition to leading all people services functions for DI, Vernon is laser-focused on ensuring the team’s people strategies are in alignment with and add fuel to the company’s key business imperatives.   Talent Management, Internal Communications, Benefits and Compliance, Foundations, and being the Executive sponsor for DI’s Diversity + Inclusion efforts are those strategic sources of fuel that have the power to enliven culture and invigorate brand connection internally and externally.

Before bringing his skills to the People front, Vernon was in advertising account management where he created marketing plans for a variety of well-known companies like McDonald’s and Walt Disney.   This experience taught Vernon the value of strategic thinking that has impact.

If you ask Vernon what his personal brand statement is, he’ll provide you with 6 words:  to lead and serve with integrity.  Doing what is right, operating with pure intention, elevating and clearing a career runway for the team around you is core to his style of leadership.