The Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is responsible for spearheading our DE&I maturity journey across the enterprise. Working closely with the Chief Engagement and Advancement Officer, League and Club stakeholders, and MLS/SUM partners, this individual will help build and implement a new DEI maturity model for MLS/SUM and its clubs, as well as progress the League’s programs to increase inclusion and representation throughout the MLS ecosystem. This senior level leader will drive strategy, through innovation, and help to create an environment that values and embraces differences while promoting equitable opportunities within the League and across our Clubs.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the full life cycle of strategy, implementation and execution of MLS DEI programs and initiatives including, MLS Maturity Model, MLS Advance, MLS Intercultural Training, and other League DEI initiatives and special projects as directed.
• Align DEI strategies with business objectives, core values and leadership competencies; continuously assessing and refining strategy based on industry trends, best practices, and internal feedback.
• Lead change management efforts and partner with senior leadership to integrate DE&I principles into the core business operations; collaborate with department leaders to ensure a cohesive approach to diversity and inclusion across the organization.
• Influence change by making informed and data-based decisions assessing potential outcomes and presenting recommendations.
• Establish meaningful metrics and benchmarks to measure the effectiveness of DE&I initiatives. Regularly report progress to leadership and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead aspects of MLS’ diversity hiring policy for sporting positions including; managing & enforcing the diversity policy portal; supporting clubs, and expanding coaching and front office talent pipeline, and adherence to policy.
• Support Chief Engagement and Advancement officer with the management of Board Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, including the preparation of decks and other communication materials.
• Develop and manage commercial aspects of the League’s DEI initiatives.
• Other responsibilities as necessary.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a related field
• 12+ years’ experience in leadership roles in addition to 5+ years of leading DE&I and/or change management at an enterprise level.

Required Skills

• Proven experience in a DEI or Change Management focused role with demonstrated success at advancing DEI strategy, enterprise wide.
• Deep understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles, as well as current industry best practices.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders.
• Data-driven mindset, with the ability to analyze metrics and translate them into actionable insights.
• Exceptional problem-solving and follow-up skills with demonstrated success at helping to translate business needs into actionable, practical initiatives.
• Excellent execution and project management skills, including the ability to plan, implement, and measure the impact of initiatives.
• High degree of emotional intelligence and influence.
• Experience operating in a high-growth, dynamic environment.
• Agile and able to adapt quickly in a fast-paced, driven culture.
• Strong interpersonal skills and judgement including the ability to engage, coach, counsel, influence, and build trust and credibility.
• High-level commitment to a quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity, and compliance.
• Deep understanding of discretion and maintaining high levels of confidentiality.
• Dedication to quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity, and compliance
• Ability to effectively manage and deliver results in a matrixed, multiple, diverse stakeholder model.

Desired Skills

• Understanding of sports marketplace dynamics.
• Flexibility to travel and work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Multi-lingual (Spanish Speaking) is a plus.

Total Rewards

Starting Base Salary $200,000 - $230,000. MLS/SUM base salaries are contingent upon several factors including individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs.

We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent through the following:

Benefits – comprehensive and competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a suite of programs to promote well-being including a $500 Wellness Reimbursement. A generous PTO offering, and hybrid Office/Remote Work Schedule are also offered to promote Work-Life balance.

Career & Professional Development – on the job training, feedback, and on-going educational opportunities to continue your personal and professional development.

Employee Engagement – office perks, discounts and employee events that go “beyond the traditional paycheck” to make you feel a part of the team and inspire you to elevate the Game!

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.