As chief diversity officer, "Thurman will be responsible for creating and implementing a long-term strategic plan that will define, assess, nurture and cultivate a culture of diversity and inclusion. He will be responsible for designing and implementing programs to increase the diversity of individuals, retained, developed and promoted in the firm," according to a released statement. Thurman was out of town and was not available for comment.

"Diversity is a business imperative for Jones Lang LaSalle and we aim to foster an environment that promotes inclusion and reflects the diverse world in which we live and work," says Peter Roberts, chief executive officer of the Americas, in a released statement. "Cedric's energy, commitment and insight will help Jones Lang LaSalle become an even more diverse workplace that reflects our increasingly diverse client base."