Mosaic: an inclusion network for everyone

Raymond James fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the world we live in.

This is demonstrated through our inclusion network, Mosaic, which brings together associates from all backgrounds. Mosaic provides members from underrepresented ethnicities, nationalities and cultures with the support, resources, mentorship and opportunities to fuel their professional growth and development.

Ja’Don Bridges, national co-chair of Mosaic and senior vice president of Operations, plays a crucial role. He provides strategic guidance to the inclusion network’s leadership team, ensures its alignment with the firm’s overarching strategy and lends support to the members’ behind-the-scenes efforts.

“We’re focused on making sure Mosaic’s efforts are continuously aligned with the three pillars: workplace, workforce and community. Beyond that, the work we do is about providing support for the members of our network,” said Bridges.

While recognition and celebration of diverse cultures are the centerpiece, Mosaic goes a step further to provide a strong support network that enables people to connect over shared experiences. Bridges added, “the network proactively brings people together, addresses shared challenges and ensures no one at the firm feels alone or isolated in their experience.”

“Our goal is to create a more inclusive workplace that honors and celebrates multicultural and intersectional identities. Throughout the year, we do this by promoting a huge variety of cultural, educational and interactive events for all associates.” – Robert Daum, vice president, Compliance, Capital Markets Compliance.

Open to all

The best way to find associates with shared backgrounds and experiences, or to be an ally and advocate for the inclusion network, is as simple as getting involved.

“Mosaic provides a platform for associates to learn and experience different cultures, striving to be inclusive and representative of the culture of the firm as a whole. We’re about embracing and celebrating everyone’s cultural heritage.” – Taminko Matthews, manager, Operational Controls.

Associates have the power to choose what involvement looks like. Attending events, gaining awareness, volunteering, helping to organize events or joining the network’s leadership team – all are valuable ways to participate in Mosaic’s work.

Lianabel Mendez, the Mosaic national co-chair and senior vice president and head of Supervision Transformation & Strategy, works alongside Ja’Don Bridges in the strategic planning and in providing support to the network’s leaders and members.

“Being a leader in Mosaic has been eye-opening,” said Mendez. “I personally enjoy getting to see what’s happening in Southfield, Memphis, Denver, New York and many of the other locations Raymond James has a presence. The continuous hard work is what creates a broader, stronger network of people within the firm. We’re stronger together.”

Inside and outside the firm

Mosaic views community in two capacities: internally and externally.

“While a significant amount of our focus is within our firm’s four walls, we’re always looking for organizations outside of Raymond James to partner with. Giving back is a core part of our firm’s culture, and Mosaic actively aspires to contribute,” said Bridges.

Celebrating and uplifting others at the firm and beyond remains a focus for Mosaic. However, by actively participating in Mosaic activities, advisors and associates can also access career-enhancing opportunities too – providing professional growth with those who engage with the network.

“Mosaic helps build leaders in ways that extend beyond day-to-day work,” said Mendez. “The network offers a cohort that includes peer support and exposure to valuable learning opportunities that ultimately equip associates with the transferrable skills to thrive and become leaders themselves.”

“In recent years Mosaic has seen a resurgence in interest, with new members, new sites in Colorado and New York, and a host of new events added to the calendar. It’s encouraging to see an excellent mixture of in-person and virtual events throughout the year.” – Christa Douse, senior program coordinator, Coaching.

Any associate can join Mosaic and attend our events.