Black History Month Spotlight Series: Arlene Woodyard

As part of our Black History Month celebration, we’ve asked our colleagues to reflect on the significance of this month.

Cleary Gottlieb office operations manager Arlene Woodyard shares some of her thoughts below.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Cleary.

I am the Washington, D.C. Office Operations Manager, responsible for overseeing daily operations, including the café, security, office services, and space planning, among other areas.

With a background in total quality management, I am committed to meeting or exceeding client expectations through fact-based decision-making and continuous improvement in Office Operations. As a member of the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA) and International Facility Management Association (IFMA), I stay informed about the latest innovations and best practices in the industry.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History is important to me every day. Black History Month provides an opportunity for the world to see and hear about the pivotal roles and demanding work Black people have contributed—whether voluntary or involuntary—to shaping our country’s history.

Has your identity impacted how you approach your work and career?

My father’s family owned a significant amount of land and contributed to building the railroads in South Carolina. My family’s history is deeply important to me, as it fortifies my belief in resilience and the ability to make a way out of no way.

When you’re underrepresented in your chosen field, why is it important to have mentors and sponsors who are invested in you and your career?

It is important to have the presence and inclusion of individuals who look like you and have diverse backgrounds across all levels within organizations. The lack of representation can lead to a narrow range of perspectives and stories being told, underscoring the importance of all the contributions, and promoting future innovation. A study by the Boston Consulting Group found that companies with more diverse management teams have 19% higher revenues due to innovation.

What are the benefits of joining an affinity group at Cleary?

Cleary’s affinity groups are integral to fostering a safe space for authentic connections and bringing together individuals who share common interests, identities, or experiences. These employee-led groups help gain a deeper understanding of stakeholders’ experiences, build understanding in diverse communities, and improve communications.