NFL hires Jonathan Beane as diversity and inclusion officer

NEW YORK (AP) - The NFL has hired Jonathan Beane as senior vice president and chief diversity and inclusion officer.

Beane, who has more than 20 years of experience as a diversity practitioner, begins his duties Sept. 8. Beane has held senior diversity roles at Roche, 21st Century Fox and Time Warner, among others. He serves on the Board of Directors of GLAAD.

The league said Beane will 'œspearhead diversity, equity and inclusion strategy, and will collaborate with senior leadership to drive actionable change'ť throughout the NFL.

The role was established to help cultivate a more inclusive culture within the league.

'œDuring this critical period in our country's history, I cannot think of a more perfect time to join an iconic organization like the NFL,'ť Beane said. 'œThe opportunity to serve ... and work closely with league and club executives, ownership and other important stakeholders on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts is an exciting one. This work is where my passion lies.'ť

Beane holds a Master's degree from Georgetown and doctorate and master's from the University at Buffalo. He earned his bachelor's degree from Dartmouth.

'œDiversity and inclusion will strengthen our organization and aligns with our values,'ť Commissioner Roger Goodell said Friday. 'œJonathan joins the NFL at an important time, and we look forward to his broad expertise and leadership on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and practices for the betterment of our league.'ť

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