TOP 100 DIVERSITY EMPLOYERS OF 2005, THE

Black Collegian, Oct 2005

EMPLOYEES: Citigroup has 300,000 employees worldwide.

FOR MBAS: At Citigroup, we are committed to the diversity of our workforce. And with a presence in more than 100 countries, where more 98 percent of our employees are hired locally, we are perhaps the most diverse company in the world. The diversity is a source of strength for our employees, clients and the communities where we live and work.

WEBSITE: www.cifigroup.com

Why did you choose to join Citigroup?

For three reasons: the broad scope or the consumer bank, Citigroup's vast international presence and its strong brand image around the world. I was looking for a place that could provide me with a plethora of opportunities within the same company. Citigroup does that. I want to be a business manager and that role has a wide range of responsibilities. It's almost like running a small company. To do that, I need to be exposed to different functions and different types of work. Citigroup affords me those opportunities early in my career.

How would you describe the culture at Citigroup?

The culture varies somewhat between the different business groups but one thing they all have in common is the quality of the people. They are extremely smart and hardworking individuals who adapt quickly to change.

What is the best thing about working at Citigroup

The opportunities seem endless. The only obstacles are the limitations I place on myself. I can chart my own course here and that is unique for a large company. In addition, my rotational program exposes me to four different businesses and four different functions - all in a two-year period. It is fairly new - only about two yean - ana the leaders of the Global Consumer Group were the driving force behind creating it. They act as our sponsors and are very involved and dedicated to ensuring the program's success.

What is the value of diversity in your work?

I cannot overemphasize the value of diversity in my work. A mix of backgrounds and experiences are necessary ingredients for rich discussions that ultimately lead to the best products and services. Our customers are the primary beneficiaries of Citigroup's commitment to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce. From a personal standpoint, diversity makes Citigroup an interesting and fun place to work for those interested in working with people from different cultures.

Why should ambitious, career-minded minority students target Citigroup as a future employer?

The career opportunities at Citigroup are unparalleled in the industry. This company values talented individuals and is committed to developing their employees. Citigroup, formed in 1998, is a relatively young entity and there is plenty of room for strong leaders to thrive in this organization.

OSCAR CRAGWELL

Title: Vice President, Global Power, Energy, Chemicals and Mining

Education: MBA Columbia University, 1998

With Company Since: June 5, 2000

Job Description: Responsible for managing a portfolio of utility clients, and executing various capital markets and structured product transactions