Ex-FIA Head of Sustainability and Inclusion hits out in leaked email

Mariani used to be the Head of SDI, but following a period of review, the FIA split the two departments, thus eliminating Mariani’s job.

The FIA said, “Following a period of review, the FIA has taken the decision to restructure the operations of this function to enable its respective teams across Sustainability and D&I to operate in a more agile and effective way, and to strategically align them with other areas of the FIA. This review formed part of the FIA’s wider internal structural review, as it continues to streamline its internal operations and transform the organisation.”

However, Mariani may think differently as in an leaked email, she seemed to be criticial of the FIA's move.

According to the BBC, the message was found in her out-of-office email and read, "There is a life outside the FIA. A life where talent and dedication are rewarded. Where women in leadership positions can thrive, feel valued and respected. It is, sadly, time to say goodbye. I loved the ride, I enjoyed every minute of it. I enjoyed the amazing work we did and my incredibly talented team. I did not expect it would end so abruptly but life goes on."

In the FIA press release, the FIA said this was in an effort to align its internal and external efforts on Diversity and Inclusion and so that department will now report to Alessandra Malhamé, the senior HR Director.

General Manager, Alberto Villareal said, “The decision to restructure our Sustainability and D&I function has been taken, after careful consideration by the senior leadership team, to strengthen our capabilities across these two crucial areas.”

This restructuring comes after the FIA made an astounding € 4.7m last fiscal year.