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Partnership Invites CEOs to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Roundtables

April 5, 2021

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (April 5, 2021) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership will host a series of CEO diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) roundtables open to regional leaders who have signed the CEO Commitment to Racial Equity outlined last fall.

The roundtables will be designed to give CEOs an opportunity to share best practices, learn from leaders in DEI, work collaboratively to measure progress in their organizations and more. Greater Des Moines (DSM) CEOs who have not yet signed the CEO Commitment to Racial Equity are encouraged to do so.

The Commitment was developed by the Greater Des Moines Partnership and its Inclusion Council with input from The Directors Council through its One Economy Blueprint for Action, as well as Capital Crossroads leadership. CEOs and top-level leaders of companies, organizations and public entities in DSM are encouraged to consider signing onto this commitment to racial equity and to create equitable, inclusive and diverse workplaces and communities. So far, more than 200 organizational leaders have signed the Commitment.

“Our business community is committed to continuing to listen, learn and take action to advance DEI to cultivate an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds,” said Fred Buie, President of Keystone Electrical Manufacturing Company and 2021 Board Chair of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “Greater Des Moines can be a leader in this area, and it is critical to have commitment from CEOs and organizational leaders.”

The Partnership is currently reaching out to those who have already signed the CEO Commitment to gather input on what the roundtable sessions will look like. The roundtables represent the next step to take action for those who have signed the Commitment.

“A diverse, equitable and inclusive community is crucial for our success in the 21st century,” said Jay Byers, President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “Diverse and inclusive communities are able to attract and retain top talent to contribute to innovation and growth.”

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 365 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The?Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.