News

Javier Leonor appointed as Executive Director at Workplace Pride

Lead Author
Perrett Laver
Published
18 Aug 2026
Industry
Social Impact
Location
Amsterdam

Workplace Pride appoints Javier Leonor as Executive Director

After 20 years of building Workplace Pride, founder and Executive Director David Pollard is stepping down and handing over the leadership of the organisation to Javier Leonor. Leonor will become Executive Director on 5 October 2026, bringing extensive international experience in inclusion, belonging, technology and organisational leadership.

The leadership change marks an important moment for Workplace Pride. What began two decades ago as a Dutch initiative has grown into an international platform for LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion, with more than 100 member organisations across the corporate, public, NGO and academic sectors.

In Javier we found the combination this next chapter demands: someone who has delivered inclusion at global scale, who understands how digital platforms multiply impact, and who speaks the language of the boardroom without ever losing sight of the people this work is for. The Board is confident that Workplace Pride’s future is in the right hands.

Michiel Kolman & Bianca Nijhof

Workplace Pride

Board Co-Chairs

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About the Lead Author

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Perrett Laver

Perrett Laver specialises in executive search to identify outstanding leaders globally. We connect influential organisations with dynamic leaders who share common values and visions for the future.

Our deep understanding of each client’s values and culture ensures we find candidates from diverse sources who bring fresh perspectives and real impact.

We connect influential organisations with dynamic leaders who share common values and visions for the future.Our deep understanding of each client’s values and culture ensures we find candidates from diverse sources who bring fresh perspectives and real impact.