Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Officer

POSITION TITLE: EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION OFFICER

PRIMARY JOB FUNCTION SUMMARY:

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) seeks a forward-thinking, visionary leader to serve as the first Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Officer who will promote student, faculty, and staff engagement with efforts to confront and dismantle systemic oppression (along all identity lines), and create an environment where socio-demographic factors do not dictate success and/or access to resources at our institution. This is a multi-functional position, in which the hire will promote social justice as the norm, co-create, implement, and advocate for initiatives that lead and inspire the NEIU campus community to uphold the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion as pillars of institutional responsibility. The EDI Officer will report directly to the President and serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet.

The EDI Officer should be prepared with a strategic vision for university-wide equity and inclusion, enhanced cultural competence, promote anti-oppressive practices, and ensure accountability. The EDI officer will provide leadership and facilitate the development and implementation of proactive equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives in support of NEIU’s strategic plan to create a learning and working community where all constituents thrive and collaborate with faculty and staff to graduate students who are prepared for the thoughtful and ethical exercise of civic participation.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Master's degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum of five (5) years of demonstrated: experience leading equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives in higher education or mission-focused organizations; experience with diversity, inclusion, equity and compliance concerns; ability to integrate equity, diversity, and inclusion into the overall university community; and knowledge and practice of leadership in diversity, training, change management and experience in implementing, facilitating, and developing policies.
• Exceptional verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• The ability to demonstrate cultural awareness, exercise emotional intelligence, build trust and collaborate effectively, and articulate the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• The ability to work independently and effectively prioritize work with a close attention to detail; meet consistent deadlines; and perform other duties as assigned.
• Substantive understanding of current theories of equity, diversity and inclusion, capacity building and strategies for organizational change, and professional expertise gained through practice, advocacy, scholarship, and/or research;
• Demonstrated experience in facilitating programs, professional development and training for faculty, staff, and students
• Knowledge of discrimination, harassment and equal opportunity laws, regulations, and guidelines and the ability to interpret these policies and laws

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

In addition to the minimum qualification listed, the optimal candidate will have

• A terminal or earned doctorate, juris doctor, or equivalent terminal degree;
• A record that demonstrates collaborative strengths with coaching and mentoring, managing projects;
• Demonstrated cross-cultural competencies including strong emotional intelligence, and the ability to engage and build relationships to foster a sense of community and belonging; and
• Conflict-resolution and consensus-building skills necessary to resolve problem and reconcile competing interests

About Northeastern Illinois University:

Founded in 1867, Northeastern Illinois University enrolls about 7,000 students through the College of Arts and Sciences, the Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education, the College of Business and Management and the College of Graduate Studies and Research. Northeastern is regarded as the most diverse public comprehensive university in the Midwest and is designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and Minority-Serving Institution. Northeastern offers more than 40 undergraduate degree and certificate programs and more than 50 graduate degree, certificate, licensure and endorsement programs.

Northeastern’s Main Campus is located on 67 acres in a residential area on the Northwest Side of Chicago with additional locations in the metropolitan area: the Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies and El Centro. Northeastern also is a founding member of the University Center of Lake County consortium campus in suburban Lake County, north of Chicago

Salary and Benefits:
Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience. Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision benefits, sick and vacation days, and participation in the State Universities Retirement System. This is a full-time, continuing position.

(Each position requires a background check.)

To Apply:
In order to be considered for the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer position by Northeastern Illinois University, you must submit the following online forms (see links below) and send the remaining documents within one PDF document to EDISearch@neiu.edu

• A letter of interest addressing your qualifications for this position;
• Current Curriculum Vitae
• Three (3) professional references
• Employment Application
• Statement of Annuitant Status

Copies of unofficial transcripts are accepted; however, official transcripts for all earned degrees will be required of candidates selected for final interviews.

Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.

Northeastern Illinois University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and invites applications from women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities, as well as other qualified individuals. Northeastern Illinois University’s positions are contingent upon the University’s receipt of its State of Illinois appropriations.