The Coca-Cola Co. and the class representatives in a discrimination lawsuit settled last year jointly chose former Secretary of Labor Alexis Herman as chairperson of Coca-Cola''s oversight Task Force.
In her role, Herman will lead the seven-member, independent Task Force, charged with ensuring compliance with the settlement agreement and providing agreement and providing independent oversight of Coca-Cola''s diversity efforts outlined in this agreement.
"As Secretary of Labor, Alexis Herman demonstrated a thoughtful, effective approach to developing a competitive, productive American workforce, and I am delighted that she has agreed to bring her proven expertise to our Task Force," said Doug Daft, chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola. "Diversity is a fundamental part of our future, and, therefore, Secretary Herman and the Task Force will be a valuable asset to our business going forward."
In regards to her new position, Herman said, "The Coca-Cola Co. has made a major commitment to diversity in its broadest sense, and its senior management clearly understands that his commitment is central to the company''s future business success," said Herman. "I am proud to be a part of this historic effort, and I look forward to working together with Doug Daft, the Board of Directors and the human resources organization as we help Coca-Cola build the finest workforce in the industry."
Herman was appointed the 23rd secretary of labor by President Clinton in 1997. She will serve on the Coca-Cola Task Force for four years.
by Virginia Sutcliffe