Under the direction of the Chief DEI Officer, the DEI Manager plays a critical role in advancing equity, inclusion, transparency, and community trust across the Village of Oak Park. The position leads the development, implementation, and evaluation of policies, programs, and engagement efforts that promote fairness and equitable access to Village services. The Manager conducts data analysis and reporting to identify disparities, recommend strategies, and inform continuous improvement. This position also provides strategic, analytical, and operational support to the Citizens Police Oversight Commission, serving as staff liaison and ensuring effective civilian oversight, community collaboration, and accountability in public safety matters. The role is both an individual and team contributor and is ideal for someone committed to strengthening inclusive government systems and centering the experiences of historically underrepresented communities.

Experience: Five (5) years of professional experience in public administration, DEI program management, community engagement, civil rights, policy analysis, public safety oversight, or a closely related field. Experience supporting or administering civilian oversight functions is highly desirable. Two (2) years of supervisory or project leadership experience preferred.

Training: Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public administration, social sciences, human relations, criminal justice, organizational development, or a related field. A Master’s degree or professional certification in DEI, public administration, or related areas is desirable. A combination of education and experience that is equivalent shall also be considered.

Department: Village Manager’s Office – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office
FLSA: Non-Union Exempt
Pay Grade: 6
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

DEFINITION

Under the direction of the Chief DEI Officer, the DEI Manager plays a critical role in advancing equity, inclusion, transparency, and community trust across the Village of Oak Park. The position leads the development, implementation, and evaluation of policies, programs, and engagement efforts that promote fairness and equitable access to Village services. The Manager conducts data analysis and reporting to identify disparities, recommend strategies, and inform continuous improvement.

This position also provides strategic, analytical, and operational support to the Citizens Police Oversight Commission, serving as staff liaison and ensuring effective civilian oversight, community collaboration, and accountability in public safety matters.

The role is both an individual and team contributor and is ideal for someone committed to strengthening inclusive government systems and centering the experiences of historically underrepresented communities.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general administrative direction from the Chief DEI Officer.

May provide project-based leadership and guidance to staff, interns, or consultants.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES - Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential duties and responsibilities

1. Manages, coordinates, facilitates, and advises the development, implementation, and improvement of policies, programs, initiatives, and DEI-related events, cultural observances, and community engagement activities, educational programs, and community gatherings that advance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion across Village operations.
2. Researches, develops, evaluates, and recommends DEI-related policies, procedures, and practices to promote equity, accessibility, transparency, accountability, and inclusive decision-making.
3. Leads interdepartmental DEI program management efforts, including goal setting, implementation oversight, and performance monitoring.
4. Designs and facilitates community engagement initiatives, ensuring meaningful participation from residents—particularly historically underserved communities.
5. Establishes and maintains collaborative relationships with community organizations, public agencies, civic partners, and Village departments to advance shared DEI priorities.
6. Develops and manages data collection tools, conducts analysis, prepares dashboards and reports, and communicates findings to leadership, boards, commissions, and the public.
7. Identifies disparities in service delivery, public safety outcomes, and organizational practices; recommends corrective action, training needs, and systemic improvements.
8. Operationalizes Police Oversight within the organization by serving as the staff liaison to the Citizens Police Oversight Commission; prepares materials, provides administrative and analytical support, and ensures compliance with Village policies and procedures.
9. Coordinates processes related to police oversight, including case tracking, complaint review, data reporting, and community communication.
10. Supports development and facilitation of training, workshops, and professional development related to diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-bias, and community-centered engagement.
11. Prepares written reports, presentations, policy documents, and communication materials for internal and external stakeholders.
12. Provides integrated staff and operational support across the commissions and advisory bodies, planning committees assigned to the Chief DEI Officer, and working with the DEI Office thereby strengthening governance, transparency, and alignment with Village equity priorities.
13. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:

 Principles and practices of public administration, community engagement, human relations, urban affairs, diversity, equity, inclusion, racial equity, and anti-racism.
 Operations, services, and activities of municipal government.
 Police accountability, civilian oversight models, and public safety data analysis.
 Management skills related to policy analysis, program evaluation, project management, and operational needs assessment.
 Research and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures.
 Effective communication strategies for diverse audiences including employees, residents, boards, commissions, and community partners.
 Current social, political, and economic trends and their influence on municipal government.

Ability to:

 Assist in the leadership and direction of DEI operations, services, and activities within a complex municipal organization.
 Manage multiple programs and projects while balancing strategic and operational demands.
 Analyze policies, procedures, and data, then develop and implement effective recommendations.
 Demonstrate cultural humility, emotional intelligence, and diplomacy in sensitive or complex situations.
 Communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
 Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with Village staff, community groups, governmental agencies, and residents.
 Represent the Village professionally in community engagement settings.
 Interpret and apply Federal, State, and local rules, regulations, and policies.
 Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance.
 Maintain physical condition appropriate for duties including walking, standing, sitting, and equipment operation.

Experience and Training Guidelines
Experience: Five (5) years of professional experience in public administration, DEI program management, community engagement, civil rights, policy analysis, public safety oversight, or a closely related field. Experience supporting or administering civilian oversight functions is highly desirable. Two (2) years of supervisory or project leadership experience preferred.
Training: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public administration, social sciences, human relations, criminal justice, organizational development, or a related field. A master’s degree or professional certification in DEI, public administration, or related areas is desirable. A combination of education and experience that is equivalent shall also be considered.

WORKING CONDITIONS
Work in an office environment; sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time and sustained posture in a seated position for prolonged periods of time. No environmental hazards.

Diversity Equity & Inclusion Statement

The Village of Oak Park commits itself to diversity, equity and inclusion by recognizing that creating a mutually respectful, multicultural and equitable environment does not happen on its own, it must be intentional. This includes providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, military or veteran status or any other characteristics.