Chief Diversity Officer

Illinois Wesleyan University invites applicants and nominations for a Chief Diversity Officer (CDO). The CDO will report to the President of the University and sit on the President's Cabinet. They will be a part of making decisions about the direction and vision of the institution with regard to practices of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and help to ensure that Illinois Wesleyan is the most welcoming possible space to people from all backgrounds.  

Founded in 1850, Illinois Wesleyan University is a private undergraduate liberal arts university that emphasizes quality teaching and student-faculty research collaboration. Illinois Wesleyan University is strongly committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and civil community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students. We seek candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to supporting and further building our community in these dimensions. Illinois Wesleyan University is an EEO Employer. Candidates from marginalized or underrepresented backgrounds are highly encouraged to apply. This administrative position is a 12-month appointment. Salary and benefits are competitive.

To achieve this goal, the candidate who takes this position will: 

• Synthesize campus-wide efforts regarding DEI. 

   

  Facilitate conversations between different individuals and groups regarding DEI related issues. 

   

  Design, implement, and lead programming regarding DEI on campus, including events, workshops, and presentations. 

   

  Stay up to date on DEI best practices. 

   

  Apply policies and conduct investigations or interventions regarding bias and DEI.

   

  Work collaboratively with a variety of groups and stakeholders, including faculty, staff and students, to develop policies, initiatives, and equitable experiences for the campus community

   

  Supervisory responsibilities for a variety of DEI-related functions and initiatives

   

Requirements: 

• Master’s degree required, doctorate desired.

   

  Several years of experience in leadership or administrative roles.

   

  Expertise in and ability to discuss cutting edge theory, concepts, issues, and best practices related to DEI.

   

  Demonstrable knowledge of and/or success in planning and implementing DEI programing.

   

  Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines related to diversity and nondiscrimination in higher education.

   

  Experience designing or applying policies and/or conducting investigations or interventions regarding DEI.

   

  Skills and experience in financial planning, budgeting, and management.

   

The ideal candidate will also have the following personal qualities: 

• Excellent communication and presentation skills. 

   

  Personal knowledge of issues within higher education. 

   

  Ability to handle difficult subjects and sensitive information with confidentiality and maturity. 

   

  A comfort in speaking to and across different groups. 

   

  Exceptional conflict resolution skills. 

   

  Cultural awareness and competence. 

   

  Notable creativity and organizational skills. 

   

Application Information:

To apply, please download the pdf application at www.iwu.edu/human-resources/Positions.html.  

In addition, please provide the following:

• A cover letter outlining your interest in the position, your experience and skills, which clearly details your understanding of DEI issues and how your experiences have prepared you to contribute to the IWU commitment of building a diverse and inclusive environment. In your cover letter, please address the duties, requirements, and qualities mentioned above.

   

  A resume.

   

  Contact information for three professional references. 

   

Inquiries and applicant materials can be directed to Kristi Hammons, Talent Acquisition Specialist, hr@iwu.edu.

Illinois Wesleyan University
Human Resources, Holmes 209
1312 N. Park Street
Bloomington, IL  61701 

Phone: (309) 556-3536
Fax:  (309) 556-1710 

Review of complete applicant materials will begin immediately; position is open until filled.  The final candidate will pass a pre-employment background investigation.

Illinois Wesleyan University does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term.

Illinois Wesleyan University is strongly committed to recruiting, supporting, and fostering a diverse, inclusive, and civil community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students. We seek candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to supporting and further building our community in these dimensions.  Illinois Wesleyan University’s sexual misconduct policy may be accessed at  www.iwu.edu/human-resources/SexualMisconductPolicy.html.  Illinois Wesleyan University is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusive excellence; details at www.iwu.edu/diversity.