A DEI manager’s main role is to shape organizational culture and combat workplace biases. They support diversity, dismantle systemic barriers, and build a culture where every employee feels valued. Ultimately, DEI managers are there to make workplaces more inclusive.
Key responsibilities of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Managers
- Boosting diverse talent pipelines. DEI managers work to attract talent from a wide range of backgrounds. They focus on bringing in unique viewpoints that lead to stronger teams and increased innovation.
- Making equity actionable. Equity isn’t only about treating everyone the same. It requires finding and removing the barriers that hold people back. DEI managers dig into policies, processes, and outcomes to make sure every employee has the same chance to succeed.
- Building inclusive cultures. A truly inclusive workplace celebrates differences. DEI managers develop programs and training that promote empathy, challenge bias, and help employees of all identities feel safe and supported.
How DEI managers make a difference to the business
Google is one company that has invested heavily in DEI programs, resulting in measurable results like increased representation of women globally and expanded leadership opportunities for underrepresented groups. Its 2024 Diversity Annual Report shows how focusing on DEI efforts can make a real difference.
Leading brands aren’t the only ones who can benefit. According to SHRM, organizations that lean in to DEI see improved collaboration, greater innovation, and increased employee retention.
Duties of a DEI manager
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion managers have a varied workload. One week, a DEI manager might lead a workshop on unconscious bias; the next, they might review promotion data to identify disparities. Some other duties include:
- Creating DEI metrics and dashboards
- Advising leadership on inclusive practices
- Shaping company-wide DEI communications
Average salary
Compensation varies, but recent data from Salary.com shows that DEI managers in the U.S. earn an average salary of approximately $140,299, with a typical range between $125,133 and $159,607.
Why DEI managers are essential now
Culture is always changing, and the ongoing shift to remote and hybrid work has made DEI even more important. This research from McKinsey & Co. shows that companies with more diverse executive teams are likely to outperform less diverse teams when it comes to profitability.
DEI managers also help with compliance. They make sure laws and regulations regarding equal opportunity are followed—this has the dual benefit of reducing risk and improving employee satisfaction.
Where DEI fits into HR and beyond
DEI works closely with HR, from how candidates are sourced to how people are promoted, but its influence extends further as well. DEI managers often shape corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies, helping the company’s values reach into the greater world.
Requirements for an inclusive workplace
Inclusion starts at the top but thrives everywhere. A DEI manager helps promote a culture where every employee—regardless of background, identity, or lived experience—feels seen, respected, and heard.
The road ahead for DEI management
The need for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion professionals continues to grow. As companies expand globally and younger generations join the workforce, the ability to build inclusive environments is increasingly important. Staying ahead means embracing continuing learning and always being willing to utilize new tools.
Velocity Global: Your partner in building inclusive teams
At Velocity Global, we understand the importance of hiring and supporting diverse talent across borders. Our Global Employer of Record (EOR) solution makes it easy to build inclusive teams anywhere in the world—without having to set up legal entities in each individual country. From navigating compliance to helping you promote a people-first culture, we’re here to help support your global growth goals.
Contact us to start supercharging your inclusive team.
