DEI Advisor

Role description

The DEIA Advisor is a critical role at AIGA Portland, aimed at embedding diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) into the heart of the chapter’s mission and activities. This role focuses on leading and guiding DEIA initiatives, ensuring that these principles are intricately woven into our strategic planning, operations, and community engagement. The DEIA Advisor is dedicated to promoting diversity within design education, discourse, and practice, significantly enhancing the role of design in society.

Collaborating closely with the executive team, including the VP of Membership and VP of Programming, the DEIA Advisor plays a pivotal role in integrating DEIA across all chapter endeavors. This position contributes to executive committee meetings, offering strategic DEIA insights and fostering a unified approach to chapter objectives.

DEIA responsibilities include:

• Develop DEIA strategies and policies, in partnership with the board, grounded in both local needs and national guidelines.
• Spearhead impactful DEIA initiatives, aligning with the mission of AIGA Portland and the broader community’s needs.
• Participate in national DEIA discussions, sharing knowledge and practices within the chapter.
• Identify and build relationships with diverse organizations for potential partnerships and sponsorships.
• Act as a DEIA resource, promoting education and opportunities within the design community.
• Drive community engagement in DEIA efforts, expanding the chapter’s reach and influence.
• Offer strategic support for AIGA’s broader initiatives, such as The Transparency Initiative, providing guidance and thought leadership.

Executive Team responsibilities include:

• Collaborate with the VP of Membership and VP of Programming to infuse DEIA principles into membership and programming activities.
• Establish connections with diverse creative groups, DEI professionals, and design-related organizations to foster collaboration and joint initiatives.

General board responsibilities include:

• Create a DEIA Playbook for the chapter, outlining actionable strategies, policies, and initiatives focused on equity.
• Develop and maintain an Equity Scorecard to evaluate and improve the chapter’s participation and impact in community events.
• Design grant documentation and outreach materials to support DEIA initiatives and partnerships within the Portland community.

Desired skills, traits & experience

• Demonstrated leadership in DEIA strategy, frameworks, and implementation.
• Excellent networking and communication skills, with the ability to engage a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Highly motivated, independent, and organized, capable of translating high-level goals into specific actions.
• Proficiency in Google Docs, Sheets, WordPress, Eventbrite, Basecamp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Passionate about making a significant contribution to the design community and advancing DEIA within it.