Tyler Lee, aged 28, holds the position of Senior Customer Account Manager at Unilever in Kingston upon Thames, where he also serves as the ProUd Network co-chair. Lee pursued International Business Studies at Bournemouth University and has been driven by a passion for a career in business since being influenced by the TV show, The Apprentice, from an early age.
After experiencing the dynamic nature of the food & drink industry while working at Tesco during his studies, Lee decided to pursue a career in this sector. He found it exhilarating to work with household brands and everyday products that have a significant impact on the nation.
In his current role, Lee collaborates with commercial contacts at Tesco to drive the growth of Unilever’s homecare business. He focuses on delivering products, activations, and promotional strategies for popular brands such as Persil, Domestos, and Comfort.
In his capacity as co-chair of Unilever’s ProUd Network, Lee emphasizes the importance of the network in providing support, mentoring, and networking opportunities for LGBTQ+ employees. The company actively supports Pride events across the UK and Ireland, partnering with organizations such as the Switchboard LGBT helpline and Superdrug to celebrate Pride month.
Unilever also has industry-leading policies that support LGBTQ+ employees through transitioning or changes to gender expressions. The company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion has been recognized with a Top 100 and Gold Employer position within Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index.
Lee’s typical day is anything but typical, as he balances his responsibilities at work with his role in the ProUd network, where his goal is to create a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment.
In terms of celebrating Pride, Lee looks forward to attending Pride events and embracing the joyous atmosphere while honoring the LGBTQ+ changemakers and movements that paved the way. He sees Lil Nas X as a role model for being unapologetically queer, and he believes in the power of representation in the media.
For young queer individuals aspiring to join the food & drink industry, Lee encourages them to celebrate Pride in their own way and seek support from LGBTQ+ colleague networks. He also emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support, directing individuals to resources like GroceryAid’s free helpline.
In conclusion, Lee dispels the misconception that working in the food & drink industry is solely about what appears on the shelves, highlighting the diverse and impactful roles within the sector. He is committed to fostering an inclusive environment at Unilever and hopes to inspire others to embrace their true selves in the workplace.
Championing diversity and inclusion in the food & drink industry is a shared responsibility, and individuals like Tyler Lee are leading the way towards a more accepting and supportive work environment.