Antonio Stephens
Director, Culture Communications and Talent Brand Marketing
Levi Strauss & Co.
Antonio Stephens made a bold career move when he transitioned from healthcare and policy communications to fashion, joining Levi Strauss & Co. as Director of Culture Communications and Global Talent Brand Marketing. In this role, he has been instrumental in reshaping the company’s narrative around inclusion, belonging, and employer branding. Antonio revitalized LS&Co.'s global employer value proposition, positioning the company as a top employer with award-winning campaigns that enhanced talent attraction and retention worldwide. Under his leadership, several diversity milestones were achieved, including a 48% growth in Black corporate employees in the U.S., a 90% rise in Black leadership, a 20% increase in Hispanic/Latinx representation, and a 33% rise in women on the executive leadership team. A key innovation led by Antonio was the creation of LS&Co.'s first historical values and heritage documentary, which went beyond traditional corporate messaging by authentically connecting employees and stakeholders with the company's core values and history. Additionally, Antonio pioneered employee engagement programs like Denim Table Talks and Behind the Seams, facilitating meaningful conversations among employees and thought leaders about personal and professional issues, further strengthening the company’s culture.
Career Highlights
Hosts the "Life Chats With Friends" podcast, providing thought leadership for professionals in high-stress environments and the LGBTQIA+ community
Spoke at Lyra Health's Workplace Mental Health Breakthrough Conference, discussing the power of storytelling in building inclusive and sustainable cultures
Presented at the PR Daily Ragan Comms Conference in Chicago, sharing best practices on storytelling and employer branding
