Section 1: Position SummaryThe Diversity and Inclusion Program Manager will partner with senior leadership and the executive team to develop and drive D&I strategy and initiatives that align with business goals. As part of thought leadership at Ascensus, the program manager is expected to chair the D&I Council, Executive Sponsor and ERG meetings, actively participate in the D&I Core Operating Council, and create D&I programs and policies that are aligned with enterprise D&I strategy. The program manager will also provide guidance and oversight to Ascensus Employee Resource Groups.Section 2: Job Functions, Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesWe are passionate about candidates who have a strong understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion to build cultural competency. A successful candidate will also need to have an understanding of the D&I business case, as the program manager is responsible for driving D&I Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) in alignment with Ascensus business strategy. We are looking for people who have a passion in communicating in verbal and written forms, and those who are comfortable in developing internal and external messaging. People who can create meaningful cross-functional partnerships with Talent Acquisition, Learning and Development, and others key stakeholders will thrive in this role. The program manager will be equipped to facilitate difficult conversations, and to educate employees and leaders on topics related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.Candidates who can strategize and act as a change agent to influence leaders and employees throughout the organization preferred.
Quantitative and qualitative analysis and a skillset tailored to telling a story given information are a plus.

In addition, the program manager will have experience in adhering to compliance protocols and relevant industry laws/regulations, and will be professional handling sensitive information. Occasionally, the program manager may be required to answer Request for Proposal (RFP) diversity responses and data requests.Infuse diversity and inclusion through all aspects of the Ascensus culture, the employee life cycle, client service and business practices.
Utilize diversity metrics and data to measure success and drive accountability.
Act as a liaison with External Diversity Partner Organizations.
Coordinates external vendor relationships, invoices and agreements in partnership with procurement.
Assists with other D&I Learning and Development related projects.

Supervision N/A

Section 3: Experience, Skills, Knowledge Requirements Bachelor s degree or equivalent work experience
5-8 years of Diversity and Inclusion experience preferred
Thorough understanding of concepts related to diversity, inclusion and cultural competency
Proficient utilizing excel and/or other data analysis tools to analyze data and develop robust reporting
Strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritize time sensitive responsibilities
Excellent organizational skills and ability to juggle several tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Collaborative with an orientation towards relationship building within organization and vendors.
Outstanding communication skills (verbal, facilitation, written and presentation) exhibited at all levels with the organization, with proven experience navigating difficult and sensitive conversations
Proficient with Microsoft PowerPoint, Word and Teams
Basic project management, analytical and research capabilities preferred.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer

Ascensus is a place to have a career, not just a job. As the largest US independent retirement and college savings services provider, we put our focus on people. Our culture is guided by sound principles, is committed to high standards, operates with transparency, and welcomes diversity. When you join our team, you get to go to work every day knowing that you help over 10 million Americans save for retirement and college.

Ascensus provides equal employment opportunities to all associates and applicants for employment without regard to ancestry, race, color, religion, sex, (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and/or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, criminal conviction record or any other protected category in accordance with applicable federal, state, or local laws ( Protected Status ).