Suggestions
Duncan Gray
Senior Officer at Human Rights Watch
Professional Background
Duncan Gray is a highly skilled HR practitioner known for his deep-seated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, particularly within the spheres of non-profit and private sectors. Currently, Duncan holds the esteemed position of Senior Officer in Global Human Resources at Human Rights Watch (HRW), a prominent organization dedicated to advocating for human rights worldwide. With a career that spans across various roles and enriches his understanding of talent acquisition, Duncan has cultivated a wealth of knowledge in the complexities of immigration processes and best practices in diversity strategies. His journey in the HR field has equipped him with the tools necessary to contribute meaningfully to organizational cultures that prioritize inclusivity and employee well-being.
Prior to his current role, Duncan served as a Senior Coordinator in the Global Human Resources team at Human Rights Watch, where he honed the skills needed to manage the multifaceted challenges of HR in a global context. His dedication to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace environment is evident through his proactive approach to tackling recruitment challenges and enhancing the onboarding processes for diverse candidate pools. This foundational experience paved the way for his earlier tenure as an Associate in Human Resources at HRW, where he managed essential functions including recruitment and employee relations, creating pathways for talent to thrive within the organization.
Education and Achievements
Duncan proudly earned his B.A. in Peace Studies from Goucher College. His academic background has been instrumental in shaping his understanding of interpersonal dynamics and organizational behavior—cornerstones of effective human resource management. The principles he learned during his studies continue to guide his approach to fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace.
Throughout his career, Duncan has also served in various capacities that highlight his versatility and expertise in HR. His early professional experience includes important roles at Fragomen, a leading immigration law firm, where he worked as an Assistant Paralegal. This position not only expanded his knowledge of immigration processes but also paved the way for his commitment to assisting individuals in navigating complex legal frameworks, ensuring they receive fair treatment and support.
Moreover, Duncan was previously a Program Manager (Contract) at C4Q, where he contributed to initiatives designed to bridge gaps in tech education and workforce development. His role allowed him to work closely with diverse communities, reinforcing his dedication to providing equitable opportunities for all.
Notable Contributions to Organizations
In addition to his HR roles, Duncan's passion for education and social equity is also reflected in his work as a Lead Content Writer at the Ukrainian Institute of America. Here, he had the opportunity to engage with cultural narratives and ensure that essential stories and histories were communicated effectively and respectfully.
His early career experiences at Cultural Vistas—spanning from Program Assistant to Program Officer for Train USA—allowed him to develop a comprehensive understanding of program management within an international context, equipping him with skills to inspire global collaboration and cultural exchange.
Achievements
Duncan's efforts are underscored by various achievements throughout his career that have had a lasting impact on the organizations he’s been a part of. At Human Rights Watch, his work not only contributes to the organization’s mission but also sets a standard within the HR field for how thoughtful practices can lead to both local and global advancements in human rights. His initiatives and leadership have played a crucial role in enhancing recruitment processes, fostering a sense of belonging, and ensuring compliance with equity initiatives. His comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding talent acquisition and retention in diverse environments sets him apart as a true leader in the HR field.
As an advocate for inclusion and equity in the workplace, Duncan Gray continuously inspires those around him and seeks to empower others to contribute to meaningful change. His passion for creating diverse and inclusive workplaces is evident in his ongoing commitment to supporting organizations that align with his values. Duncan’s progressive career path reflects a genuine dedication to advancing the principles of human rights and equality in every aspect of his work.