Vice President of Equity and Inclusion

The Rhode Island Foundation is our state’s only community foundation, mobilizing generosity and motivating change throughout the Ocean State. By partnering with generous and visionary donors since 1916 the Foundation aligns its fundraising, community investment, convening, advocacy, and capacity building efforts to address Rhode Island’s most pressing issues and the needs of diverse communities. The Foundation is a dynamic, fast-paced workplace. Its dedicated employees are committed to creating meaningful progress in Rhode Island.  

The Rhode Island Foundation is currently seeking a Vice President of Equity and Inclusion to lead the implementation of a strategic roadmap that advances equity, diversity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) across the Foundation. This senior-level position will collaborate with the Foundation's Leadership Team to foster an equitable and inclusive work environment and ensure equitable grantmaking, programs, and community partnerships. The role reports directly to the President and CEO.  

The Vice President of Equity and Inclusion will advise the President and CEO, Leadership Team, and Board of Directors on DEIA matters and is expected to collaborate with colleagues across the organization to create and monitor initiatives for fair and equitable treatment of all stakeholders.  

The position will also work to integrate DEIA strategy within the Foundation’s mission and strategic direction, link DEIA initiatives to grantmaking and program goals, and build strategic relationships with community partners. In addition, this position will assist in ensuring compliance with DEIA-related legal requirements, establish an internal reporting system to evaluate DEIA initiatives, and manage the DEIA budget.  

The ideal candidate must be a strategic leader with a proven record of advancing diversity initiatives, take a data-driven approach to change management, and possess effective communication and influence skills. The candidate must also have knowledge of Human Resources (HR) aspects and legal DEIA compliance and the ability to develop collaborative relationships and navigate sensitive situations.  

The ideal candidate must also have deep knowledge of DEIA best practices and organizational culture change and possess high emotional and cultural intelligence. In addition, the candidate must be results-oriented with experience in strategic planning and implementation.  

Preferably, the candidate will hold a master’s degree in social justice, sociology, public administration, HR management, or a related field. Extensive experience in DEIA program development and implementation and/or advocating for change in diverse environments is also preferred, along with nonprofit, foundation, or governmental experience.  

The Rhode Island Foundation encourages a diverse work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We offer excellent benefits and a salary range of $150,000 to $180,000 for this position.  

To apply, please email your resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to  jobs@rifoundation.org.