Celebrating Black History Month: Meet Sebastien Garraud
At Avangrid, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace matters to us. We strive to build and sustain a diverse workforce with a rich mix of differences, inclusive workplaces where each of us feel valued and connected, and equitable opportunities to grow and develop – no matter where we work. As we celebrate Black History Month this month, we’re spotlighting employees who are members of The Avangrid African-American Council for Excellence (AAACE). Let’s meet Sebastien Garraud.
What is your role at Avangrid and how did you find your way here?
I have been in Human Resources for a total of nine years, but I have been at Avangrid for four years. I started my career in Human Resources as a recruiter for Allegis Global. Then I received my first HR assistant role at Constellation Health Services. I was then able to grow in my career at Atrium Hospitality under the Hilton brand in which I received the opportunity to become an interim HR Director and gained a wealth of knowledge in HR leadership. I started my career at Avangrid on December 9, 2019 as an advisor for the HR Hub. Under the leadership and guidance of Kay Johnson (an African-American vice president), I was promoted and became a Senior Advisor that manages employee relations investigations, provides performance management training with managers, and enhances employee experience.
How do you celebrate Black History Month?
I celebrate Black History Month by making sure I support black businesses more than I normally would, although I aim to buy Black all year round. I make sure to share lists of these black businesses and their social media content, as well as visiting the business.
Every Black History Month, a few of my friends always find a non-profit that has the initiative of helping African-American-dominant areas and either volunteer there or make a significant donation.
What is your favorite piece of media or art from a Black creator?
I love the “Power” franchise on Stars. Courtney Kemp and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson did an impeccable job on its development. They started with one show in 2014 and they were able to turn that show into the franchise it is today. That one show led them to create “Power” books II, III, & IV. Those shows have been some of Starz’s highest-rated and viewed shows for the network since its launch.
There are plenty of examples of success in the world, but it is different when someone who looks like you achieves success. It makes that dream more attainable.
What do you like to do outside of work? Favorite hobby or passion?
Outside and inside of work I am a huge sports junkie. I worked for UConn athletics for four years and while I was there, I had the opportunity to witness two national championships from both UConn men’s and women’s basketball—making UConn the only school to have both basketball teams win a Division I title the same year.
I love to participate in multiple fantasy football leagues. (I need another way to enjoy football as my Dallas Cowboys crush my Superbowl expectations every year.)
I also participate in flag football. I am part of Thanksgiving game that happens once year called the EllSai Turkey Bowl where players raise money or donate canned goods for the less fortunate in our community.
Who or what inspires you?
I am inspired by family and my fear of failing. I work hard to provide my family with more than I ever had. I want my daughter to have the opportunities to achieve the goals that are beyond her wildest dreams. When the people that have your best interest are happy, then you know you are on the right path.
I make sure I perform at my job because I understand my clearly defined expectations. I go above and beyond for the business because as an ex-athlete, mediocrity turns into being complacent. A wise black woman at Avangrid has shared this quote with myself and others numerous times, but I take it too heart every time I hear it: “If you are not at the table, then you are on the menu”.
