Navigating DE&I in UK Defence and Public Sector: Envitia’s Positive Response to Change
As part of our Critical Mass work, we ask our Partners to share ‘what works’. This could be great programmes they’ve introduced in the gender equity space, or insight on how best to approach tricky environments. This is what Sarah Thompson from Envitia had to say had to say about navigating DE&I in the UK defence and public sector.
By Sarah Thompson, Sales Operations, Pursuit and Bidding
The UK’s defence and public sector landscape is evolving due to several key policy shifts, including the Procurement Act, Defence Strategic Review, Defence Industrial Strategy, and wider geopolitical events, such as recent U.S. policy changes on DE&I. These developments present both challenges and opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) like Envitia, a data-driven SME committed to supporting diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) whilst delivering cutting-edge solutions.
With the release of The Procurement Act in early 2025, which aims to create a fairer and more transparent contracting system, we hope to see the prioritisation of supplier diversity. It opens doors for SMEs and innovative tech firms like Envitia, ensuring that DE&I remains a central pillar in government procurement decisions.
The Defence Strategic Reviews and Defence Industrial Strategy, released this year, will set the foundational activities and priorities for UK defence. Envitia is preparing by implementing inclusive hiring strategies, investing in underrepresented talent and fostering a work environment that supports professional growth across diverse backgrounds. Fresh perspectives and readiness to combat new challenges will be essential in meeting the needs of today and the challenges of tomorrow.
Adapting to Global DE&I Trends
Global instability and shifting economic priorities often impact funding and support for DE&I initiatives. As defence budgets adjust in response to international security threats, Envitia remains committed to embedding DE&I in its operations, ensuring that diversity is not sidelined even in times of economic uncertainty.
The UK government’s efficiency drive could impact DE&I in public sector and defence contracts both positively and negatively. While streamlining processes may enhance transparency, supplier diversity and equitable access, cost-cutting could reduce DE&I funding and limit opportunities for smaller, diverse businesses.
Geopolitical events and shifts in USA DE&I policies could significantly influence DE&I efforts in the UK public sector and defence. In January 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order to end certain Government DE&I Programs, mandating the termination of federal contracts and grants related to DE&I within 60 days. This led to the Department of Defense directing contracting officers to cancel solicitations and terminate existing contracts containing DE&I requirements.
Envitia’s Positive Response to DE&I Challenges
Despite these external pressures, Envitia is taking proactive steps to ensure DE&I remains at the heart of its operations:
- Expanding Diverse Talent Pipelines – Investing in apprenticeship programs, outreach to underrepresented groups and skills development initiatives.
- Fostering Inclusive Partnerships – Collaborating with SMEs and diverse suppliers to create a more equitable supply chain.
- Leveraging Data for Fair Procurement – Using data-driven insights to identify and eliminate biases in procurement and hiring processes.
- Championing Thought Leadership – Advocating for DE&I best practices in defence and public sector forums.
As policy and geopolitical landscapes shift, SMEs and large organisations alike, must adapt and lead in maintaining DE&I progress within the UK defence and public sector.
Rowena Cowen, People and Culture Director states;
“By embracing supplier diversity, inclusive hiring, and equitable business practices, Envitia is not just navigating these changes—it is setting a standard for how SMEs can thrive while championing DE&I in an evolving defence landscape.”
