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Vanessa Abrahams-John

Senior VP - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at adidas

Vanessa Abrahams-John is a highly experienced and strategic global leader with a professional background spanning 17 years across various industries including law, academia, human resources (specifically diversity and inclusion), and change management. She is adept at developing innovative strategies to drive change, foster collaboration with business leaders, and support business objectives, showcasing exceptional problem-solving, communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.

Vanessa excels in developing and leading strategies, policies, and initiatives to promote and uphold diversity and inclusion across regions like North and South America, Asia, and Europe, ensuring their integration with business strategies. She has a track record of successfully managing global diversity councils and employee resource groups, holding certification to deliver diversity and inclusion training to business managers. Additionally, Vanessa has expertise in managing the legal Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and affirmative action plans.

During her tenure as Senior Legal Counsel at Praxair's Legal department, she oversaw commercial matters on a global scale for Praxair Surface Technologies, federal government contracting, mergers & acquisitions, and more. Prior to this role, Vanessa garnered 15 years of experience as a commercial and transactional attorney at prominent law firms in New York City.

Aside from her corporate responsibilities, Vanessa has also shared her legal knowledge as an adjunct professor of Law at Pace Law School, teaching 'Drafting Legal Contracts.' She further extends her expertise by serving on the boards of two nonprofit organizations in New York City, providing legal guidance and insight.

Vanessa's educational background includes a Doctor of Law (J.D.) from Howard University School of Law and a Bachelors of Science in Physiology from The University of Western Ontario.

Vanessa Abrahams-John
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Location

Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany