RSM UK’s Susan Ball named in prestigious Diversity Power List 2023

• 2023 Diversity Power List honours 50 of the UK’s most inclusive and inspirational people

Susan Ball, a tax partner at leading audit, tax and consulting firm RSM UK, has been included in the prestigious 2023 Diversity Power List. Comprising 50 champions of diversity and inclusion across the UK, this honours-style list, produced by the Inclusive Awards, highlights and recognises individuals who are working tirelessly to make a difference to other people’s lives.

The Diversity Power List 2023/24 was chosen by an independent panel of judges from nominations submitted by the public.

Susan Ball comments: ‘I’m thrilled to be part of the Inclusive Awards, celebrating diversity and inclusion but even more so to have been included in this year’s Diversity Power list. I am extremely humbled, surprised, and delighted. What an honour to be on a list which this year and last contains so many people I admire across such a wide spectrum who are actively helping to change things for all. I would like to thank the public, the judges and Paul Sesay and his team at Inclusive Companies. I can’t say I ever thought that talking about my experience as a dyslexic, and what helps me to thrive, in the hope it would help others and peoples understanding of the neurodiversity community, would result in me appearing on the Diversity Power List.

‘I would also like to congratulate the others on this list, as well as those shortlisted and winners of the Inclusive Awards, and all the companies that have secured a place in the coveted Inclusive top 50 UK Employers list this year. It’s wonderful the awards shine a light on the continual focus needed on diversity, equity and inclusion. Celebrating the journey towards it by individuals, teams and organisations - who not only need to think about future talent needs but also their customer experience.’

The 2023 Diversity Power List was revealed at the Inclusive Awards. Now in its second year, the 2023 Diversity Power List shines a light on people working hard in their local communities and networks to change opinions, attitudes, and behaviours. It features a few high-profile names - including 14-year-old actor and TV personality Lenny Rush, actor and women’s rights advocate Emma Watson and deaf actor/dancer Rose Ayling-Ellis – for taking a stand, sharing experiences, and setting a great example. Most importantly, however, the Diversity Power List highlights the work of many extraordinary individuals who fly under the radar championing diversity, driving inclusion and bringing enduring change.  

‘Big changes start with small steps, typically taken in a social or work community,’ says Paul Sesay, CEO and founder of Inclusive Companies which compiles the Diversity Power List. ‘It often starts with a lone voice from a brave individual whose commitment, passion and dedication cascade and grow as they bring others with them. The Diversity Power List seeks to applaud these individuals and amplify their work to ensure lasting success.’

The background of those on this year’s list is truly diverse: from digital marketers to community organisers, senior police officers to leaders of charities, athletes to journalists, CEOs of major businesses to human rights activists and leaders in education. The full list is extensive and showcases 50 extraordinary individuals who are going above and beyond to champion diversity. 

‘Our aim in publishing the Diversity Power List is to bring together the most ‘diversity conscious’ people in the UK,’ continues Paul. ‘They deserve to be recognised for championing diversity for one or more of the protected characteristics of people who comprise society in the UK.  Dedicated to what they are doing and innovative in how they are doing it, they are an inspiration to us all.’ 

Susan specialises in employment tax at RSM UK. She was also appointed as president of the Chartered Institute of Taxation’s (CIOT) between May 2022 and May 2023. Her appointment marked only the fourth female appointment to a leading role in the Institutes 90-year history.