Ameren Illinois’ Mark named among top minority business leaders in America

COLLINSVILLE – Ameren Illinois Chairman and President Richard J. Mark has earned the distinction as a top 100 minority business leader in corporate America.

The EMpower report, published by the Financial Times, named Mark to its 2017 global executive list. He was recognized for being a strong advocate, role model and supporter of diversity and inclusion through training, employee enrichment, community outreach and supplier development. Financial Times is one of the world’s largest business news organizations.

“I am humbled to be named among such a distinct group of global business professionals and honored to represent Ameren Illinois co-workers who share my passion for diversity,” Mark said. “A more inclusive workplace creates more opportunities for our employees, suppliers and customers. The culture we have built at Ameren Illinois encourages diversity in thought and action and it’s a major reason why we’re a successful, growing company.”

Mark, who celebrates five years as chairman and President of Ameren Illinois in June, was one of the initial Executive Sponsors of Ameren’s Network of Minority Employees, a group which develops networking and training opportunities for Ameren’s minorities. This year, Mark is offering employees an additional opportunity to experience the benefits of diversity and inclusion through formation of the “Courage Tour,” a series of presentations and panel discussions focused on encouraging diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Mark is also vice chairman of the Illinois Utilities Business Diversity Council, whose mission is to grow business opportunities for diverse suppliers through closer collaboration, technical development and sharing of best practices.

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