How CSG is Driving Change Through Leadership: David W. Johnson, Jr. on Empowerment, Culture, and Making a Difference
How CSG is Driving Change Through Leadership: David W. Johnson, Jr. on Empowerment, Culture, and Making a Difference
“If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
David Johnson, Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer at CSG, embodies the power of leadership that fosters belonging, drives ethical practices, and empowers people to be their best selves. With over two decades at CSG and a background in public service with the US Department of Justice, Department of Labor, and as a Deputy County Attorney in Nebraska (US), David brings a unique perspective to corporate culture and community impact. In this ChangeLeaders interview, David shares his journey and insights on fostering inclusion, and the transformative role of volunteering.
From Legal Advocacy to Cultural Stewardship
David’s career path was driven by a childhood aspiration to become a lawyer. “Lawyers are problem-solvers,” he explains. “They help people navigate challenges, and I’ve always been drawn to that role.” Starting his career in public service, David honed his skills in investigations, trial practice, contract negotiations, and government relations before transitioning to CSG in 2003.
At CSG, David’s roles have evolved in tandem with the company’s growth. “When I joined, CSG focused on integrity, respect, and customer-centric values,” he recalls. “Today, we’ve grown to be that and more, embracing diverse perspectives, fostering belonging, and encouraging employees to show up authentically.” This cultural evolution, David emphasises, is a testament to CSG’s commitment to its people as its greatest differentiator.
Building a Culture of Belonging
Creating an environment where employees feel seen, heard, and valued lies at the heart of David’s leadership philosophy. At CSG, fostering a culture of belonging is not merely a strategic goal but a foundational aspect of the company’s operations. This commitment is reflected in a flexible work environment, which allows employees to work remotely from various global locations. This approach enables employees to thrive in settings that suit their needs, ensuring they can perform at their best without compromising their comfort or well-being. Secondly, CSG Employee Belonging Groups provide safe and inclusive spaces for employees with shared identities, interests or cause to connect, learn, and support one another. These groups create healthier and more innovative solutions, help grow the leaders of tomorrow, inform critical DEI initiatives, and improve employee retention.
Finally, CSG promotes a speak-up culture, offering multiple channels for open communication, including anonymous reporting mechanisms. This ensures employees feel safe and supported in raising concerns or sharing feedback, reinforcing a culture of trust and transparency.
“Belonging isn’t just about policies; it’s about empowering employees to be their authentic selves and fostering an environment where their voices matter,” David explains. “When employees are happy and engaged, they bring forward innovative ideas and drive the company’s success.” This philosophy underscores CSG’s dedication to cultivating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully.
The Ripple Effect of Volunteering
David’s passion for impact extends beyond his corporate role. Through Change Days hosted by We Make Change, he has emerged as a “Super ChangeMaker,” participating in more events than anyone else. These three-hour virtual volunteering sessions bring together corporate professionals and impact startups to tackle real-world challenges.
“Volunteering has helped me discover and develop skills I didn’t know I had,” David shares. From supporting fundraising strategies to refining communication approaches, he has contributed to diverse initiatives. Beyond skill-building, David values the connections forged during Change Days. “It’s inspiring to see people bring ideas to life and create a ripple effect in their communities.”
Volunteering has also deepened David’s understanding of critical issues. His involvement with Birthing the Magic Collaborative, a non-profit addressing black maternal health, was particularly transformative. “I didn’t fully grasp the gravity of the issue until I got involved,” he admits. “Supporting initiatives like this can create generational impact.”
Trends in Corporate Impact and Inclusion
Reflecting on the future of corporate impact, David highlights three key trends:
Data-Driven Insights: Companies leverage data to understand employee needs and enhance engagement. “It’s not just about representation but about listening to and acting on employee feedback,” he notes.
Employee-Centric Culture: It is becoming increasingly essential to place the employee experience at the heart of corporate strategies. “Happy employees drive better ideas and outcomes,” David says.
Sustainable Practices: From reducing environmental footprints to sharing impact stories, businesses will integrate sustainability into their core operations.
David believes these trends, coupled with a focus on doubling down on company culture, will shape the future of corporate impact. For more information check out CSG’s Global Impact Report.
Change as a Path to Growth
When asked what he would say to those who doubt the possibility of change, David offers a profound perspective: “If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
Through his leadership at CSG and his volunteer work, David exemplifies the transformative power of embracing change, fostering inclusion, and empowering others. As he puts it, “If we all strive to get better, the world becomes a better place.”
Read more about CSG’s impact initiatives on their website, and learn more about We Make Change’s Change Days here. Together, we can create meaningful change.
—
About We Make Change
If you'd like to have a greater impact, find out how We Make Change makes impact easy for individuals and teams across the world.
This is part of our ChangeLeaders interview series with corporate impact leaders sharing their journeys, learnings, and lessons from making an impact in the corporate world. If you are a ChangeLeader we should interview, please email us at info@wemakechange.org.
Interview & Article: James Sancto & Laura De Alba
“If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
David Johnson, Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer at CSG, embodies the power of leadership that fosters belonging, drives ethical practices, and empowers people to be their best selves. With over two decades at CSG and a background in public service with the US Department of Justice, Department of Labor, and as a Deputy County Attorney in Nebraska (US), David brings a unique perspective to corporate culture and community impact. In this ChangeLeaders interview, David shares his journey and insights on fostering inclusion, and the transformative role of volunteering.
From Legal Advocacy to Cultural Stewardship
David’s career path was driven by a childhood aspiration to become a lawyer. “Lawyers are problem-solvers,” he explains. “They help people navigate challenges, and I’ve always been drawn to that role.” Starting his career in public service, David honed his skills in investigations, trial practice, contract negotiations, and government relations before transitioning to CSG in 2003.
At CSG, David’s roles have evolved in tandem with the company’s growth. “When I joined, CSG focused on integrity, respect, and customer-centric values,” he recalls. “Today, we’ve grown to be that and more, embracing diverse perspectives, fostering belonging, and encouraging employees to show up authentically.” This cultural evolution, David emphasises, is a testament to CSG’s commitment to its people as its greatest differentiator.
Building a Culture of Belonging
Creating an environment where employees feel seen, heard, and valued lies at the heart of David’s leadership philosophy. At CSG, fostering a culture of belonging is not merely a strategic goal but a foundational aspect of the company’s operations. This commitment is reflected in a flexible work environment, which allows employees to work remotely from various global locations. This approach enables employees to thrive in settings that suit their needs, ensuring they can perform at their best without compromising their comfort or well-being. Secondly, CSG Employee Belonging Groups provide safe and inclusive spaces for employees with shared identities, interests or cause to connect, learn, and support one another. These groups create healthier and more innovative solutions, help grow the leaders of tomorrow, inform critical DEI initiatives, and improve employee retention.
Finally, CSG promotes a speak-up culture, offering multiple channels for open communication, including anonymous reporting mechanisms. This ensures employees feel safe and supported in raising concerns or sharing feedback, reinforcing a culture of trust and transparency.
“Belonging isn’t just about policies; it’s about empowering employees to be their authentic selves and fostering an environment where their voices matter,” David explains. “When employees are happy and engaged, they bring forward innovative ideas and drive the company’s success.” This philosophy underscores CSG’s dedication to cultivating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully.
The Ripple Effect of Volunteering
David’s passion for impact extends beyond his corporate role. Through Change Days hosted by We Make Change, he has emerged as a “Super ChangeMaker,” participating in more events than anyone else. These three-hour virtual volunteering sessions bring together corporate professionals and impact startups to tackle real-world challenges.
“Volunteering has helped me discover and develop skills I didn’t know I had,” David shares. From supporting fundraising strategies to refining communication approaches, he has contributed to diverse initiatives. Beyond skill-building, David values the connections forged during Change Days. “It’s inspiring to see people bring ideas to life and create a ripple effect in their communities.”
Volunteering has also deepened David’s understanding of critical issues. His involvement with Birthing the Magic Collaborative, a non-profit addressing black maternal health, was particularly transformative. “I didn’t fully grasp the gravity of the issue until I got involved,” he admits. “Supporting initiatives like this can create generational impact.”
Trends in Corporate Impact and Inclusion
Reflecting on the future of corporate impact, David highlights three key trends:
Data-Driven Insights: Companies leverage data to understand employee needs and enhance engagement. “It’s not just about representation but about listening to and acting on employee feedback,” he notes.
Employee-Centric Culture: It is becoming increasingly essential to place the employee experience at the heart of corporate strategies. “Happy employees drive better ideas and outcomes,” David says.
Sustainable Practices: From reducing environmental footprints to sharing impact stories, businesses will integrate sustainability into their core operations.
David believes these trends, coupled with a focus on doubling down on company culture, will shape the future of corporate impact. For more information check out CSG’s Global Impact Report.
Change as a Path to Growth
When asked what he would say to those who doubt the possibility of change, David offers a profound perspective: “If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
Through his leadership at CSG and his volunteer work, David exemplifies the transformative power of embracing change, fostering inclusion, and empowering others. As he puts it, “If we all strive to get better, the world becomes a better place.”
Read more about CSG’s impact initiatives on their website, and learn more about We Make Change’s Change Days here. Together, we can create meaningful change.
—
About We Make Change
If you'd like to have a greater impact, find out how We Make Change makes impact easy for individuals and teams across the world.
This is part of our ChangeLeaders interview series with corporate impact leaders sharing their journeys, learnings, and lessons from making an impact in the corporate world. If you are a ChangeLeader we should interview, please email us at info@wemakechange.org.
Interview & Article: James Sancto & Laura De Alba
“If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
David Johnson, Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer at CSG, embodies the power of leadership that fosters belonging, drives ethical practices, and empowers people to be their best selves. With over two decades at CSG and a background in public service with the US Department of Justice, Department of Labor, and as a Deputy County Attorney in Nebraska (US), David brings a unique perspective to corporate culture and community impact. In this ChangeLeaders interview, David shares his journey and insights on fostering inclusion, and the transformative role of volunteering.
From Legal Advocacy to Cultural Stewardship
David’s career path was driven by a childhood aspiration to become a lawyer. “Lawyers are problem-solvers,” he explains. “They help people navigate challenges, and I’ve always been drawn to that role.” Starting his career in public service, David honed his skills in investigations, trial practice, contract negotiations, and government relations before transitioning to CSG in 2003.
At CSG, David’s roles have evolved in tandem with the company’s growth. “When I joined, CSG focused on integrity, respect, and customer-centric values,” he recalls. “Today, we’ve grown to be that and more, embracing diverse perspectives, fostering belonging, and encouraging employees to show up authentically.” This cultural evolution, David emphasises, is a testament to CSG’s commitment to its people as its greatest differentiator.
Building a Culture of Belonging
Creating an environment where employees feel seen, heard, and valued lies at the heart of David’s leadership philosophy. At CSG, fostering a culture of belonging is not merely a strategic goal but a foundational aspect of the company’s operations. This commitment is reflected in a flexible work environment, which allows employees to work remotely from various global locations. This approach enables employees to thrive in settings that suit their needs, ensuring they can perform at their best without compromising their comfort or well-being. Secondly, CSG Employee Belonging Groups provide safe and inclusive spaces for employees with shared identities, interests or cause to connect, learn, and support one another. These groups create healthier and more innovative solutions, help grow the leaders of tomorrow, inform critical DEI initiatives, and improve employee retention.
Finally, CSG promotes a speak-up culture, offering multiple channels for open communication, including anonymous reporting mechanisms. This ensures employees feel safe and supported in raising concerns or sharing feedback, reinforcing a culture of trust and transparency.
“Belonging isn’t just about policies; it’s about empowering employees to be their authentic selves and fostering an environment where their voices matter,” David explains. “When employees are happy and engaged, they bring forward innovative ideas and drive the company’s success.” This philosophy underscores CSG’s dedication to cultivating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully.
The Ripple Effect of Volunteering
David’s passion for impact extends beyond his corporate role. Through Change Days hosted by We Make Change, he has emerged as a “Super ChangeMaker,” participating in more events than anyone else. These three-hour virtual volunteering sessions bring together corporate professionals and impact startups to tackle real-world challenges.
“Volunteering has helped me discover and develop skills I didn’t know I had,” David shares. From supporting fundraising strategies to refining communication approaches, he has contributed to diverse initiatives. Beyond skill-building, David values the connections forged during Change Days. “It’s inspiring to see people bring ideas to life and create a ripple effect in their communities.”
Volunteering has also deepened David’s understanding of critical issues. His involvement with Birthing the Magic Collaborative, a non-profit addressing black maternal health, was particularly transformative. “I didn’t fully grasp the gravity of the issue until I got involved,” he admits. “Supporting initiatives like this can create generational impact.”
Trends in Corporate Impact and Inclusion
Reflecting on the future of corporate impact, David highlights three key trends:
Data-Driven Insights: Companies leverage data to understand employee needs and enhance engagement. “It’s not just about representation but about listening to and acting on employee feedback,” he notes.
Employee-Centric Culture: It is becoming increasingly essential to place the employee experience at the heart of corporate strategies. “Happy employees drive better ideas and outcomes,” David says.
Sustainable Practices: From reducing environmental footprints to sharing impact stories, businesses will integrate sustainability into their core operations.
David believes these trends, coupled with a focus on doubling down on company culture, will shape the future of corporate impact. For more information check out CSG’s Global Impact Report.
Change as a Path to Growth
When asked what he would say to those who doubt the possibility of change, David offers a profound perspective: “If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
Through his leadership at CSG and his volunteer work, David exemplifies the transformative power of embracing change, fostering inclusion, and empowering others. As he puts it, “If we all strive to get better, the world becomes a better place.”
Read more about CSG’s impact initiatives on their website, and learn more about We Make Change’s Change Days here. Together, we can create meaningful change.
—
About We Make Change
If you'd like to have a greater impact, find out how We Make Change makes impact easy for individuals and teams across the world.
This is part of our ChangeLeaders interview series with corporate impact leaders sharing their journeys, learnings, and lessons from making an impact in the corporate world. If you are a ChangeLeader we should interview, please email us at info@wemakechange.org.
Interview & Article: James Sancto & Laura De Alba
“If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
David Johnson, Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer, and Chief Diversity Officer at CSG, embodies the power of leadership that fosters belonging, drives ethical practices, and empowers people to be their best selves. With over two decades at CSG and a background in public service with the US Department of Justice, Department of Labor, and as a Deputy County Attorney in Nebraska (US), David brings a unique perspective to corporate culture and community impact. In this ChangeLeaders interview, David shares his journey and insights on fostering inclusion, and the transformative role of volunteering.
From Legal Advocacy to Cultural Stewardship
David’s career path was driven by a childhood aspiration to become a lawyer. “Lawyers are problem-solvers,” he explains. “They help people navigate challenges, and I’ve always been drawn to that role.” Starting his career in public service, David honed his skills in investigations, trial practice, contract negotiations, and government relations before transitioning to CSG in 2003.
At CSG, David’s roles have evolved in tandem with the company’s growth. “When I joined, CSG focused on integrity, respect, and customer-centric values,” he recalls. “Today, we’ve grown to be that and more, embracing diverse perspectives, fostering belonging, and encouraging employees to show up authentically.” This cultural evolution, David emphasises, is a testament to CSG’s commitment to its people as its greatest differentiator.
Building a Culture of Belonging
Creating an environment where employees feel seen, heard, and valued lies at the heart of David’s leadership philosophy. At CSG, fostering a culture of belonging is not merely a strategic goal but a foundational aspect of the company’s operations. This commitment is reflected in a flexible work environment, which allows employees to work remotely from various global locations. This approach enables employees to thrive in settings that suit their needs, ensuring they can perform at their best without compromising their comfort or well-being. Secondly, CSG Employee Belonging Groups provide safe and inclusive spaces for employees with shared identities, interests or cause to connect, learn, and support one another. These groups create healthier and more innovative solutions, help grow the leaders of tomorrow, inform critical DEI initiatives, and improve employee retention.
Finally, CSG promotes a speak-up culture, offering multiple channels for open communication, including anonymous reporting mechanisms. This ensures employees feel safe and supported in raising concerns or sharing feedback, reinforcing a culture of trust and transparency.
“Belonging isn’t just about policies; it’s about empowering employees to be their authentic selves and fostering an environment where their voices matter,” David explains. “When employees are happy and engaged, they bring forward innovative ideas and drive the company’s success.” This philosophy underscores CSG’s dedication to cultivating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully.
The Ripple Effect of Volunteering
David’s passion for impact extends beyond his corporate role. Through Change Days hosted by We Make Change, he has emerged as a “Super ChangeMaker,” participating in more events than anyone else. These three-hour virtual volunteering sessions bring together corporate professionals and impact startups to tackle real-world challenges.
“Volunteering has helped me discover and develop skills I didn’t know I had,” David shares. From supporting fundraising strategies to refining communication approaches, he has contributed to diverse initiatives. Beyond skill-building, David values the connections forged during Change Days. “It’s inspiring to see people bring ideas to life and create a ripple effect in their communities.”
Volunteering has also deepened David’s understanding of critical issues. His involvement with Birthing the Magic Collaborative, a non-profit addressing black maternal health, was particularly transformative. “I didn’t fully grasp the gravity of the issue until I got involved,” he admits. “Supporting initiatives like this can create generational impact.”
Trends in Corporate Impact and Inclusion
Reflecting on the future of corporate impact, David highlights three key trends:
Data-Driven Insights: Companies leverage data to understand employee needs and enhance engagement. “It’s not just about representation but about listening to and acting on employee feedback,” he notes.
Employee-Centric Culture: It is becoming increasingly essential to place the employee experience at the heart of corporate strategies. “Happy employees drive better ideas and outcomes,” David says.
Sustainable Practices: From reducing environmental footprints to sharing impact stories, businesses will integrate sustainability into their core operations.
David believes these trends, coupled with a focus on doubling down on company culture, will shape the future of corporate impact. For more information check out CSG’s Global Impact Report.
Change as a Path to Growth
When asked what he would say to those who doubt the possibility of change, David offers a profound perspective: “If you’re not open to change, you’re not open to growth. Growth requires learning, and learning requires change.”
Through his leadership at CSG and his volunteer work, David exemplifies the transformative power of embracing change, fostering inclusion, and empowering others. As he puts it, “If we all strive to get better, the world becomes a better place.”
Read more about CSG’s impact initiatives on their website, and learn more about We Make Change’s Change Days here. Together, we can create meaningful change.
—
About We Make Change
If you'd like to have a greater impact, find out how We Make Change makes impact easy for individuals and teams across the world.
This is part of our ChangeLeaders interview series with corporate impact leaders sharing their journeys, learnings, and lessons from making an impact in the corporate world. If you are a ChangeLeader we should interview, please email us at info@wemakechange.org.
Interview & Article: James Sancto & Laura De Alba
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How WASHKING is Transforming Sanitation in Ghana: A Conversation with Dieudonne Kwame Agudah
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How CSG is Driving Change Through Leadership: David W. Johnson, Jr. on Empowerment, Culture, and Making a Difference
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How CSG is Driving Change Through Leadership: David W. Johnson, Jr. on Empowerment, Culture, and Making a Difference
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How Education is Equipping Businesses to Face Climate Challenges: Celli Lloyd on AXA Climate’s Mission to Prepare Companies for a Greener Future
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How WASHKING is Transforming Sanitation in Ghana: A Conversation with Dieudonne Kwame Agudah
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How CSG is Driving Change Through Leadership: David W. Johnson, Jr. on Empowerment, Culture, and Making a Difference
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How Education is Equipping Businesses to Face Climate Challenges: Celli Lloyd on AXA Climate’s Mission to Prepare Companies for a Greener Future
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How WASHKING is Transforming Sanitation in Ghana: A Conversation with Dieudonne Kwame Agudah
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How CSG is Driving Change Through Leadership: David W. Johnson, Jr. on Empowerment, Culture, and Making a Difference
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How Education is Equipping Businesses to Face Climate Challenges: Celli Lloyd on AXA Climate’s Mission to Prepare Companies for a Greener Future
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Empowering Women Through the Lens: Amina Mohamed’s Vision with Cameras for Girls
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