Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company has announced that James Bond, SVP and chief legal and governance officer, has been recognized as one of the Outstanding LGBT+ Executive Role Models, supported by Yahoo Finance.

According to Wawanesa, Bond has been involved in 2SLGBTQ+ and other diversity, equity and inclusion organizations throughout his entire career. It was under his leadership that Wawanesa launched its first 2SLGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group.

“We are very proud of James being recognized by this award,” said Wawanesa SVP and chief people and culture officer Lisa Osachoff. “We certainly have the benefit and pleasure of having him part of Wawanesa. He is always an active leader to support our Pride ERG and any community events. I know that personally James takes a great deal of accountability being an out senior leader, he wants to help those coming beside and behind him to see what’s possible.”

“The support and encouragement I get from people here at Wawanesa is a huge motivator,” said Bond. “I’m proud to work for such a welcoming and diverse company, and to help make space for other 2SLGBTQ+ professionals. Thank you to everyone at Wawanesa who makes this such a great place to work.”

The Outstanding LGBT+ Executive Role Models awards recognize business leaders and allies who are breaking down barriers and creating more inclusive workplaces across the world.