Paloma DeNardis
Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
DICK’S Sporting Goods
www.dickssportinggoods.com

Paloma DeNardis’ career began as an agency recruiter. It wasn’t a glamorous job, but it taught her the importance of grit and resilience — two skills that would later come in handy when she gained exposure to corporate America working at a large pharmaceutical company. DeNardis, who says her passion has always been making a difference, now works as the Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at DICK’S Sporting Goods. “Through all of that, I was most proud to join DICK’S and for the first time truly feel a sense of belonging – of being welcomed, challenged, and pushed to be my best,” she says.

DeNardis’ primary role at DICK’S includes building strategy and integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into all facets of the company. She says the events of 2020 solidified the company’s commitment to the people who make their organization and communities special.

“We learned that sports brought people together, helped to keep us healthy, and gave people a safe space to go in the height of the pandemic,” she says. “We stood together through those uncertain times and it has made us a stronger team and organization.”

Her work has earned her a “Game Ball” – an internal company award given on a quarterly basis to recognize teams who are making a difference.  She finds other highlights of her career “in the little moments and small successes,” she says. “Moments of recognition, moments of gratitude, moments of bravery and moments in awe of the people I get to call friends and colleagues.”

Outside the office, DeNardis appreciates her Mt. Washington community and the families who are committed to making it feel like home. “My hope is to add to that community and raise my children to contribute the same,” she says.

How does DeNardis describe herself as a businesswoman? “Thoughtful yet scrappy, resilient and savvy,” she says. “I can always find the silver lining and I think I help others find it as well.”

The best advice she’s ever received is to “Do what you say you will do.”

“You will be a reliable and trusted partner if you can follow through on your commitments,” DeNardis says.

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