Guillermo Merelo | University of Auckland

In this episode of the Champions Coffee Podcast, Vygo’s Director of Sales, Lyndin Francis, sits down with Guillermo Merelo, Associate Director of Staff Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Waipapa Taumata Rau, The University of Auckland. With a rich and global career spanning over 30 years, Guillermo brings unmatched expertise at the intersection of diversity, equity, inclusion, organisational development, and community engagement. From his early days as a senior public officer in Latin America to leadership roles across Europe and the Asia-Pacific, Guillermo’s work has consistently pushed the boundaries of people and culture strategy through an academic and justice-focused lens.

Ben and Guillermo explore the vital role of inclusive leadership in higher education, the complexities of intersectionality, and how research can inform policy to create more equitable workplaces. As a published researcher, policy advisor, and Vice President of EPHEA, Guillermo shares insights on building belonging across borders, industries, and identities, offering a compelling vision for what inclusive excellence looks like in practice.