SIOR's Commitment to Empowering Change and Building an Inclusive Future

Empowering change doesn’t happen overnight. It begins with awareness and reflection and involves a close review of values. SIOR is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment within the commercial real estate industry. The commitment to DEI is reflected in ongoing initiatives and strategic efforts to create a workplace and organization that values and supports every individual. Since its commitment to CREW in 2018 to drive alignment and diversity throughout its organization, SIOR has been fostering an authentic community of inclusivity and equity through several initiatives:

Comprehensive Compensation and Benefits Evaluations: An in-depth study was conducted to evaluate team member compensation and benefits in Washington, DC, to align offerings with the industry and ensure fairness and competitiveness. SIOR recently completed new team member contracts as part of its commitment to fair and transparent employment practices.

Inclusive Leadership: Strong female leaders have been instrumental in shaping the organization SIOR is today, but women have historically made up a very small population of the membership, until recently. SIOR recognizes the incredible talent in the marketplace, and recently, that recognition has been reciprocated, as SIOR female membership has grown by 27%. The women within SIOR continue to significantly influence the organization by taking on leadership roles. Currently, 40% of SIOR’s Board of Directors are female, the highest percentage in its history. SIOR’s incoming president-elect will be the youngest female to ever serve in this role. Outside of the Board, more women are chairing committees and serving as SIOR Regional Directors and Chapter Presidents. Additionally, 50% of SIOR Global’s senior leadership team are women, with those same women leading 70% of the organization’s departments. SIOR is committed to having a diverse representation on its Board and within all chapter and organizational leadership roles.

Ongoing Professional Development: SIOR remains dedicated to empowering women in leadership positions and ensuring their voices are heard at every level. Investing in professional growth opportunities via mentorship and continuing education is another way SIOR is supporting the unique needs of its increasingly diverse membership.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: SIOR continues to leverage industry partnerships to promote DEI initiatives and drive meaningful change across the commercial real estate sector. SIOR’s recent partnerships with The Real Estate Executive Council (REEC), the Black Commercial Real Estate Network (BCREN), and the SIOR Foundation help educate and broaden awareness of the commercial real estate industry to a new, diverse generation. By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, SIOR is creating a culture of inclusivity and respect within the organization, setting a standard of excellence that benefits the entire commercial real estate industry. Together, we are building a future where everyone can thrive.