Global Director, Culture and DEI

About the role

The Global Director, Culture and DEI leads WRI’s worldwide culture and diversity, equity and inclusion agenda. Reporting to the Global Director of Learning, Development, and Culture, the role works across a matrixed organization to translate strategic intent into measurable actions while managing a small team of a Culture Advisor and DEI Manager.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute a global culture and DEI strategy aligned with WRI priorities, values, and people strategy.
• Translate strategy into a portfolio of initiatives, milestones, and success metrics, including a DEI maturity matrix.
• Identify organization‑wide culture and inclusion risks, themes, and opportunities and design practical interventions.
• Partner with People & Culture leaders, Country Directors, affinity groups, and managers to embed equitable and culturally competent practices.
• Lead, coach, and develop the Culture Advisor and DEI Manager.
• Provide strategic guidance to senior leadership and ensure global coherence with regional adaptation.
• Leverage data and staff insights to prioritize actions, assess impact, and report progress.
• Represent DEI initiatives within the Global Human Resources Network and cross‑functional forums.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in culture, DEI, or related transformation roles within global NGOs or multinational organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and measure large‑scale DEI strategies.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with experience influencing senior leaders across regions.
• Experience managing a small team and driving collaborative change.
• Eligibility to work in Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, or the Netherlands.
• Willingness to work hybrid, including 8 days per month onsite.

Required skills