Carlton Brown

Dr Carlton Brown is a leading expert in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), entrepreneurship and supplier diversity. A respected researcher, Author, and advocate, his work focuses on breaking systemic barriers and advancing inclusive business practices.

Dr Brown is the author of The Black Entrepreneur Report(2021), a seminal study on the challenges faced by Black and ethnic minority entrepreneurs in accessing the supply chain. His book, The Race Paradox, critically examines the gap between corporate DEI commitments and actual progress. His academic contributions extend to peer-reviewed articles and co-edited works, including Corporate Social Responsibility and strategic market positioning for organisational success.

As CEO of Aspire Consultancy, Dr Brown advises organisations on inclusive business practices, strategies, supplier diversity and sustainable growth. He is also the founder of the UK Black business entrepreneurs conference.

Dr Brown holds a PhD in business performance management, an MBA and a postgraduate Diploma in Leadership. A former board member of the UK Association of Business mentors, he is a visiting university lecturer and a sought-after speaker, shaping discussions on economic equity and entrepreneurship