Neurodiversity is not only a pathway to greater equity at work, it is also a powerful driver of stronger teams, better collaboration, and higher-quality outcomes.
At Specialisterne, we partner with employers to turn inclusive intentions into practical, sustainable hiring and workplace practices. One such partner is Sopra Steria, a leading European consulting, digital services, and software development company.
In this interview, Merche Freitas Domenech, Project & Delivery Manager at Sopra Steria, shares how their collaboration with Specialisterne Espana began, what the team has learned through welcoming an autistic professional into an aerospace software testing role, and how organizations can build meaningful, long-term neuroinclusive workplaces.
Q. How did the idea of collaborating with Specialisterne come about?
At Sopra Steria, we promote equal opportunities and work to build an inclusive and equitable environment where respect and diversity drive our achievements. Through an internal contact, we met Specialisterne and saw a great opportunity to create synergies by incorporating their talent into our company.
Q. What is the job title of the new employee? What are their daily responsibilities?
Our colleague from Specialisterne joined as a tester to ensure the quality and proper functioning of aerospace sector software applications, performing functional and technical tests to detect and correct errors.
Q. How was the process of incorporating the neurodivergent person into your company?
Throughout the process, we had the support and guidance of Specialisterne, which facilitated the integration of the new team member and provided us with the necessary tools. Thanks to their guidance and the excellent reception from the team, the entire process unfolded smoothly and naturally.
Q. What are this employee’s strengths? What do they excel at in their job?
They demonstrate a rigorous, detail-oriented, and conscientious approach to their work, essential qualities for a testing role.
Q. Has incorporating an autistic person changed your perception of neurodivergent people?
Every person is unique, and getting to know them helps you grow. At Sopra Steria, inclusion is an integral part of our culture. We run several internal and external programs to support workplace integration. When organizations provide the right support, they create environments where everyone can thrive and contribute to a more open, respectful, and equitable culture.
Q. What benefits has the inclusion of neurodiversity brought to your company?
Including neurodivergent professionals has helped shift perceptions and reinforced the value of building inclusive companies. It has also supported more empathetic and cohesive teams, improved the work environment, and strengthened our commitment to equal opportunities.
Q. How can companies help ensure autistic people have equal opportunities and feel truly included?
A lack of experience can create hesitation at first. But once that initial barrier is overcome, it becomes clear there is no reason to view neurodiversity as a challenge. Inclusion quickly shows its value. What matters is offering opportunities and trusting in diverse talent. Every person brings unique strengths, such as creativity, focus, or strong concentration, that can be a great fit for different roles. When companies see positive results, they naturally move toward more inclusive models.
Q. What concrete actions can leaders take to support neurodiversity?
By building partnerships with specialized organizations such as Specialisterne, providing staff training, improving communication and management practices, and creating flexible and supportive working environments.
Q. How should organizations measure the success of their neurodiversity initiatives?
By evaluating employee satisfaction, team and client feedback, retention, and overall performance.
Q. What would you say to companies that have not yet started neurodiversity programs?
With small changes to the work environment and communication, it is possible to create a more understanding and collaborative culture that delivers real social impact. In technology companies, there are many roles, such as quality assurance, where neurodivergent professionals often excel due to strengths in attention to detail, memory, and focus. There is no reason not to benefit from this talent.
This collaboration shows that neuroinclusion does not require complex or disruptive changes. With the right support, clear communication, and a willingness to learn, organizations can create environments where autistic professionals thrive and where teams become more empathetic, engaged, and effective. Sopra Steria’s experience highlights how inclusive hiring can strengthen workplace culture while delivering real business value.
Interested in building a neuroinclusive workplace or exploring how your organization can partner with Specialisterne?
👉 Get in touch with our team to start the conversation and learn how inclusive hiring can work in your organization.
Recent Comments