Marcelo Cataldo, the newly appointed chief executive officer of Digicel Group, has made a strong statement about diversity, equity, and inclusion from the very beginning of his tenure. In his introductory photo, he chose to embrace his personal style, which included a casual red T-shirt and jeans, showing off his tattoo-covered arm. This decision sparked conversation on social media, as it diverged from the more traditional “corporate” dress code often seen with CEOs in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. Cataldo’s daughter even took the photo, adding a personal touch to his introduction.
During a company town hall meeting, Cataldo explained the inspiration behind his choice of attire in the photo. He emphasized the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, stating that everyone should be free to express themselves however they choose, whether it’s through clothing, hairstyles, tattoos, or other personal preferences. Cataldo highlighted the culture at Digicel, where individuals are encouraged to align with the company’s business purpose while still remaining true to themselves. He shared that his tattoos hold significance for him, representing his time living in countries like Ireland and Brazil.
Cataldo’s decision to move away from the traditional “corporate look” for his introductory photo was a deliberate choice to demonstrate his commitment to embracing diversity and inclusion within the workplace. While he acknowledged the need to dress formally for certain occasions, such as meetings with government officials, he emphasized that his day-to-day attire of jeans and tennis shoes reflects his true self. Taking over as Group CEO from Maarten Boute, Cataldo brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as CEO and president of Tigo Colombia. He described himself as a straightforward person who values practicality and results in his approach to leadership.
In addition to his professional background, Cataldo shared personal details about his life, including his marriage and three children. Having lived in six countries prior to Jamaica, where he now resides, Cataldo expressed his excitement about the move. He revealed a passion for sports, having participated in martial arts, tennis, and volleyball, and joked about needing to learn cricket. Cataldo believes that sports are an essential part of human nature and reflect a person’s identity. As he settles into his new role at Digicel Group, his commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to be a driving force behind his leadership style.
Overall, Marcelo Cataldo’s approach as the new CEO of Digicel Group emphasizes the importance of individuality and authenticity in the workplace. By choosing to showcase his personal style and beliefs in his introductory photo, Cataldo sets a precedent for embracing diversity and inclusion within the company. His openness to different forms of expression and his focus on results and cultural impact demonstrate a holistic approach to leadership that values both professional success and personal growth. As he navigates the challenges and opportunities that come with his new role, Cataldo’s commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment remains at the forefront of his agenda.
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