Silvergate Media has appointed its first chief diversity officer in the form of Shelli Rottman who takes on a new dual role with the firm as its EVP of Business and Legal Affairs.

In her position as both chief diversity officer and EVP of business and legal affairs, Rottman will oversee Silvergate’s growing diversity and inclusion programme currently guiding the company’s pledge to create a more equitable and welcoming working environment while, at the same time, amplifying fresh, diverse voices through mentorship and guidance.

Rottman joined Silvergate Media in 2011, and over the past decade has played a major part in heading up the company’s Business and Legal Affairs team, supporting global licensing, content distribution, business development, and production.

Prior to joining Silvergate Media, Rottman served as in-house counsel in the entertainment, fashion and publishing industries, including at Chorion, Liz Claiborne (now Kate Spade) and Condé Nast.

Silvergate recently made a commitment to magnify diverse voices throughout its creative slate with the investment in a new production ¡Vamos!, based upon the award-winning Spanish and English language work of Mexican-American author Raúl (González). Similar projects, with an emphasis on exploring different cultures and traditions, are also under consideration.

“I am thrilled to be able to make a meaningful impact in an area that is important to me,” said Rottman. “The overwhelming support for embracing new and emerging talent from different communities is clearly evident in the company’s philosophy and its substantial investment in new and exciting productions. 

“This is an amazing opportunity to help promote and guide the next generation of diverse storytellers and their work.”

Waheed Alli, chief executive at Silvergate Media, added: “With her unique outlook and industry expertise, Shelli is the perfect choice to lead our efforts in shaping a more diverse and inclusive company culture and to align those values with our overall business strategy.”