At Kinaxis, we know that innovation thrives on different perspectives. That’s why diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) isn’t just a corporate initiative—it’s part of who we are. A truly inclusive workplace isn’t just about representation; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to contribute. And when it comes to rethinking what inclusion looks like, our Divergent Minds Employee Resource Group (ERG) is leading the charge.
Why neurodiversity matters
Neurodivergence—including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences—is often described as “thinking differently.” But different doesn’t mean less. It means new ideas, fresh problem-solving approaches, and a workforce that better reflects the world we live in.
Despite their talents, neurodivergent individuals often face barriers in traditional workplaces. From hiring processes that don’t account for different communication styles to office environments that can be overwhelming, the corporate world isn’t always built for neurodivergent success. That’s something we’re determined to change at Kinaxis.
Introducing Divergent Minds
Born in late 2023, Divergent Minds is more than just an employee group—it’s a movement. It’s a safe space for neurodivergent employees, an educational hub for allies, and a driver of real change across Kinaxis.
For some, finding a workplace that truly values neurodivergent individuals is life-changing. As Facilities Coordinator and a founding member of the Divergent Minds ERG, Tanya Geary, shared: "As a woman who was not diagnosed until 2017 with ADHD, I experienced traumatizing treatment from my past employer. I was shamed for my time blindness and told I ‘should know better because I was an adult.’ After leaving that job, I struggled to find work—until I joined Kinaxis on a one-week contract at Reception. It immediately felt like home. I never truly felt like I belonged anywhere until I joined Kinaxis. I’m incredibly proud to be a founding member of Divergent Minds, and as Facilities Coordinator, my goal is to create inclusive workspaces where our neurodivergent population can flourish."
Here’s how this ERG is already making an impact:
- Breaking the stigma – Open conversations are key to inclusion. By sharing personal experiences and insights, members are helping to normalize discussions around neurodiversity, breaking down misconceptions and fostering greater understanding.
- Educating teams and leaders – Knowledge is power. In 2024, we partnered with Specialisterne, a global expert in neurodivergent inclusion, to train our managers and teams on how to support and empower neurodivergent colleagues in meaningful ways.
- Shaping a more inclusive workplace – Inclusion isn’t just about awareness—it’s about action. Divergent Minds is working closely with our DEI and Facilities teams to make our office spaces more sensory-friendly, and with our HR team to refine hiring and onboarding processes, ensuring they are more accessible and welcoming.
- Creating lasting change – Divergent Minds plays an active role in informing policies and best practices across Kinaxis. As part of a broader DEI effort, ERGs like Divergent Minds provide ongoing input to help ensure sustainable, long-term inclusion for employees of all backgrounds.
A workplace where everyone belongs
At Kinaxis, DEI isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live and breathe every day. The future of work isn’t about fitting into a mold. It’s about celebrating unique perspectives and harnessing the strengths that come with them.
For Senior Product Marketing Lead, Greg Quirk, this commitment has been both empowering and deeply personal. He says: "I knew that Kinaxis had a commitment to having 1% of its workforce comprised of people with autism and it was actually this value that gave me the courage to get officially diagnosed. It’s amazing to work for a company that celebrates diversity of thought and innovation."
With initiatives like our ERGs, we’re not just creating a more inclusive company—we’re building a culture where different ways of thinking are celebrated, supported, and embraced. When we unlock diverse perspectives and talents, we create stronger teams, more innovative ideas, and a better future for all.
Learn more
Want to learn more about how Kinaxis is building an inclusive workplace? Check out our Sustainability Report to see how we’re driving DEI forward.