White male allyship: Identity and enaction among senior leaders in UK business

Purpose – If organisations are to be successful in creating diverse and inclusive workplaces, white engagement is critical. Furthermore, given the dominant position of men in most organisations, the imperative for white men to engage is particularly pressing. This study aims to examine the motivations, enactments,
challenges and support for senior UK business leaders, identified as white male allies, who seek to promote fair treatment and full participation for racial minorities.
Design/methodology/approach – This study used a purposive sampling method, whereby racial minority representatives were asked to nominate people they identified as white male allies for inclusion. Data was collected via semi-structured interviews and analysed through a process of reflexive thematic analysis.
Findings – While some of the findings accord with existing literature, several new themes emerge in the UK context that challenge current understanding and may be applicable in US and other non-US contexts.
Originality/value – Although research has been conducted into white male allyship, it predominantly focuses on the US experience and/or non-business settings. While the US and UK share some commonalities, as do business and non-business settings, each is accompanied by specific race dynamics. Consequently, not all prior research is appropriate and may ignore important contextual differences.