Senior Officer, DEI

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserve the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various communities. The foundation is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Senior Officer, DEI will serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and will spearhead the foundation's DEI initiatives across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. This role is pivotal in providing strategic guidance and support to senior leadership, partners, and functional teams, ensuring that the foundation's DEI strategy is effectively implemented and continuously improved. The Senior Officer will be responsible for designing and delivering DEI content tailored to the specific contexts of the regions served, requiring a deep understanding of the operational realities within the foundation's offices. The position demands proactive collaboration with senior leadership to ensure alignment on messaging and shared expectations, ultimately enhancing the foundation's impact and effectiveness in promoting DEI.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic DEI Leadership: Act as a DEI subject matter expert, providing insights and guidance to leadership and teams across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
• Planning & Implementation: Lead the development and execution of the DEI strategy and associated workstreams, focusing on leadership and team effectiveness.
• Advisory & Consultation: Collaborate with senior leadership and regional leads to advance strategic priorities and inclusion strategies.
• DEI Integration into Business Functions: Ensure that DEI priorities are integrated into operational, talent management, and programmatic efforts across various teams and divisions.
• Cultural & Regional Alignment: Provide context-specific DEI guidance that reflects both global and local landscapes.
• Partnership & Engagement: Work with internal teams and external consultants to create resources and tools that support DEI initiatives.
• Change Management & Capability Building: Partner with HR Business Partners to foster an inclusive culture through coaching and structured initiatives.
• Inclusive Culture & Change Content Design and Delivery: Lead the development of DEI content informed by diverse local voices and facilitate engagement efforts.
• DEI Portfolio and Partner Management: Oversee external partners and contracts that support the DEI strategy across the designated regions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field, along with a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in DEI, inclusion, organizational development, or change management at a senior level. They should have experience in designing and implementing DEI tools and processes that align with organizational strategies and drive meaningful impact. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to establish credibility and build trusted relationships with leaders and employees at all levels, think critically and strategically, and manage a considerable workload effectively. Strong interpersonal skills, humility, and the ability to communicate effectively are essential, as is the capability to adapt DEI expertise across diverse cultural contexts.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, with a preference for candidates who have advanced degrees or specialized training in DEI, organizational development, or related disciplines. The educational background should support a deep understanding of the principles and practices of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as organizational behavior and change management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, with a focus on DEI, inclusion, organizational development, or change management at a senior level. Experience should include designing and implementing DEI initiatives, facilitating dialogue sessions, and engaging staff in global contexts. The ability to manage complex projects and drive results through collaboration is crucial, as is experience in high-pressure environments.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not detailed, proficiency in English is mandatory given the global nature of the role. Additional language skills relevant to the regions of Africa, Europe, and the Middle East would be advantageous and enhance the candidate's ability to engage effectively with diverse populations.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may require travel up to 30% domestically and internationally. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in Ethiopia without the need for visa sponsorship. The hiring process will include a background check, and the organization is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for all candidates, offering accommodations as needed.