|
Position Available:
Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. (ABLE) is a regional non-profit law firm whose mission is to pursue justice and equity, facilitate access to opportunities for people with low incomes through passionate legal representation, nd provide steadfast advocacy for systemic reform. ABLE is affiliated with Legal Aid of Western Ohio (LAWO), also a regional non-profit law firm that provides free high quality legal assistance in civil matters. Each member of the staff plays an integral part in the proper representation of the client. The efficient and effective operation of the law firm requires the full cooperation of all its members to achieve our goals. Each member must therefore have a commitment to the general purposes and operation of ABLE and be able to work effectively with all parts of the ABLE network and delivery system. An effort must be made to achieve a successful working atmosphere among the staff. All staff members are responsible for the proper execution of their duties and for dealing with our clients and visitors in a professional and pleasant manner. Dependability, trustworthiness, confidentiality, and competence are required for all staff. All staff members are expected to integrate ABLE’s Standards of Excellence in their work, in dealing with colleagues, and in serving clients. The Standards of Excellence are available on the company Intranet site. The requirements in this job description coupled with the employee’s work plan are the basis for employee evaluations. The person in this position is expected to perform the Duties and Responsibilities listed below on a regular and consistent basis.
Job Summary:
The Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) will be responsible for advancing organizational efforts to ensure that DEI principles are embedded in all aspects of ABLE’s operations, culture, and mission. Supporting and working in close collaboration with the Executive Director, the DEI Director will be responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating DEI strategies and initiatives that foster an inclusive workplace, strengthen equitable outcomes, and enhance client and community engagement. This position provides a unique opportunity for a forward-thinking leader to advance systemic equity and promote a culture of belonging and respect. The Director of DEI, under the direction of the Executive Director (ED) will:
Job Description:
Key Responsibilities (other duties as assigned):
DEI Strategy and Leadership:
- Design and implement an organization-wide DEI strategy aligned with ABLE’s mission and goals.
- Partner with senior leadership to integrate DEI principles into policies, practices, and decision-making processes.
- Serve as the organization’s DEI subject matter expert, providing guidance, tools, and resources to staff and leadership.
- Develop metrics and benchmarks to assess DEI progress and regularly report on outcomes to leadership and stakeholders.
Training and Development:
- Lead DEI-related learning and development initiatives, including staff training, workshops, and leadership development programs.
- Conduct needs assessments to identify organizational priorities for DEI-related education and training.
- Partner with internal and external experts to design and deliver effective DEI learning experiences.
- Provide resources and guidance to staff to support the integration of DEI principles into client advocacy and community engagement.
Policy Development and Implementation:
- Ensure alignment and implementation of existing DEI policies with organizational values and best practices.
- Evaluate organizational systems, processes, and practices to identify and address barriers to equity and inclusion.
- Collaborate with Human Resources to ensure equitable hiring, promotion, and retention practices that foster a diverse workforce.
- Support compliance with grant requirements and other external obligations related to DEI initiatives.
Culture and Engagement:
- Foster a workplace culture that prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
- Serve as a resource for staff and leadership in addressing DEI challenges and opportunities.
- Promote equity and cultural competence in client service delivery and community partnerships.
- Lead initiatives to engage staff and stakeholders in conversations about DEI and organizational growth.
Assessment and Continuous Improvement:
- Use data to assess the effectiveness of DEI initiatives, identify gaps, and develop strategies for improvement.
- Monitor trends and emerging practices in DEI to ensure the organization remains at the forefront of innovation and impact.
- Evaluate the organization’s progress toward DEI goals and recommend actionable steps for continuous growth.
Required Skills and Competencies:
- Deep understanding of DEI principles, best practices, and their application in organizational settings.
- Proven ability to design and lead effective DEI initiatives and programs.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders and build trust.
- Experience fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace culture.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills to assess organizational needs and develop data-informed strategies.
- Ability to work collaboratively across departments and manage competing priorities effectively.
- Cultural competence and a commitment to advancing equity for marginalized communities.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in a related field (e.g., organizational development, cultural anthropology, sociology, social justice, human resources, public administration) or equivalent experience.
- Five or more years of professional experience in DEI, equity-focused advocacy, or related areas.
- Demonstrated experience developing and implementing DEI strategies in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations.
- Valid driver’s license and insurability.
- Commitment to ABLE’s mission to provide high-quality legal services to low-income communities.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Work is performed in a normal office environment
COMPENSATION, BENEFITS AND WORK LOCATION:
ABLE is committed to providing an equitable work environment, including a commitment to pay equity. The annual salary range for this position starts at $63,800. ABLE offers comprehensive fringe benefits, including health insurance, annual leave, sick leave, supplemental language compensation, loan repayment assistance for attorneys through the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation, bar exam study stipend, and paid parental leave. This position can be based out of Toledo or Dayton, with hybrid work possible and occasional travel between ABLE’s office locations.
OTHER DUTIES: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the incumbent for this job. ABLE can revise or eliminate requirements and responsibilities of this position at any time to reflect its needs and objectives. ABLE will notify affected employees of any changes and the effective date of such changes.
ABLE is an Equal Opportunity Employer and places a high value on diversity in our workplace, including diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, and physical ability. We strive to create an environment welcoming to all individuals and we encourage applications from individuals traditionally underrepresented in the legal profession. Applicants requiring accommodation for the interview/application process should contact the recruitment coordinator at hrteam@ablelaw.org.
|