For Immediate Release: 9/15/2023 3:11 pm
WORCESTER, Mass. – The City of Worcester announced Friday the opening of its search for a Chief Equity Officer to lead the new Executive Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (EODEI).
Following a request for proposals for an executive search firm for the position, GovHR, a woman-owned and led public management consulting firm with extensive experience with recruiting executive managers specifically within the DEI field, was selected. The firm will lead the search for a candidate who will have both internal and public-facing responsibilities to facilitate, advocate for, and institutionalize equitable and inclusive policies, practices, and outcomes.
The newly formed EODEI has nine full-time equivalent positions and a recommended FY2024 budget of $744,000, which represents a 67% increase over the FY2023 budget. The purview of the EODEI includes human rights, accessibility, investigations, training and development, and serves as the staff liaison to the Accessibility Advisory Commission, Human Rights Commission, Advisory Committee on the Status of Women, and the Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs. The incoming Chief Equity Officer will have the opportunity to fill several key positions on the team.
“We are excited to begin the search process for the City’s first Chief Equity Officer, who will lead our newly formed Executive Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and its efforts to accelerate representation within the City’s workforce and leadership,” said City Manager Eric D. Batista. “The right candidate for this position will not be afraid to affect change and hold others accountable while setting and advancing our DEI strategy.”
The Chief Equity Officer will work closely with the City Manager as an advisor and a partner in leading culture change within the City government and the larger community. In addition, they will work closely with Human Resources and other departments to establish a culture of equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the municipality.
Interested candidates should apply online by October 15, 2023, with a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 5 professional references.
