Chief Diversity Officer

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a purpose-driven, strategic, and deeply passionate Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) to join our executive leadership team and lead the charge in building an inclusive, equitable, and people-first culture. In today’s dynamic and socially aware business landscape, diversity is not just a core value—it’s a strategic advantage. This critical role will design and execute enterprise-wide DEI initiatives that reflect our values, empower our workforce, and contribute to sustainable, measurable growth.

As a trusted advisor to the C-suite, you’ll operate at the intersection of people, strategy, and culture—partnering across HR, operations, legal, and communications to embed equity and inclusion into every level of the organization. You’ll influence leadership, hiring practices, supplier diversity, and talent development initiatives while promoting meaningful employee engagement and representation.

The ideal candidate combines strategic vision, cultural intelligence, and executive influence with a proven record of building equitable systems in high-growth environments. This is a transformational leadership role—not just a compliance function—with the autonomy to innovate, scale, and drive change.

🏢 This position offers hybrid flexibility in Illinois and supports remote work across the U.S., making it ideal for a seasoned DEI leader who thrives in fast-paced, mission-driven organizations across technology, consulting, and professional services sectors.

What You’ll Do

✅ Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Develop and implement DEIB strategies with measurable business outcomes.

• Align DEI priorities with company-wide goals and operational frameworks.

• Collaborate with senior leadership to embed inclusion across all functions.

✅ Culture, Learning & Engagement

• Champion initiatives that foster belonging, equity, and psychological safety.

• Launch training programs, speaker series, and internal campaigns to promote awareness and inclusive leadership.

• Oversee Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and DEI councils.

✅ Inclusive Hiring & Retention

• Collaborate with HR and talent acquisition to ensure inclusive hiring practices and equitable access to opportunity.

• Support succession planning and leadership development for underrepresented groups.

✅ Compliance & Accountability

• Lead compliance with DEI-related regulatory requirements and internal audits.

• Monitor and evaluate DEI policies, pay equity analysis, and workforce metrics.

✅ External Partnerships & Thought Leadership

• Serve as a public-facing advocate for the company’s DEI strategy.

• Partner with minority-owned businesses, nonprofits, universities, and DEI-focused organizations.

Qualifications

✔ 10+ years of progressive leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion, or related fields
✔ Strong background in HR, organizational development, corporate strategy, or consulting
✔ Deep understanding of intersectionality, cultural competence, and systems change
✔ Experience influencing senior stakeholders and managing enterprise-level initiatives
✔ Data-driven mindset with the ability to define and track success metrics
✔ Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Sociology, Organizational Psychology, or related field (Master’s preferred)

Why Join Us?

🌟 Mission-Aligned Culture – Be part of a leadership team committed to equity, purpose, and systemic change
🌟 Hybrid in Illinois + Nationwide Remote – Flexibility to work onsite or remotely across the U.S.
🌟 Executive Compensation – Competitive base, bonuses, and equity options
🌟 Top-Tier Benefits – Health insurance, 401(k), generous PTO, wellness support, and executive development
🌟 Make a Real Impact – Lead with purpose and shape the future of our organization through meaningful DEI innovation

📩 Ready to Lead with Purpose?
Apply now and help us build a more inclusive, empowered, and forward-thinking future.