(Hybrid) Executive Director, Resilient Chicago Fund (Chicago)

Job Description

Title: Executive Director, Resilient Chicago Fund

Reports to: President & CEO

Direct Reports: Manager

Classification: Regular; Full-time

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary Range: $155,000-$180,000

Application Deadline: 8/15/2025

Position Summary:

Resilient Chicago Fund (RCF) is a new philanthropic initiative focused on reimagining how nonprofits and government meet basic human needs across Cook County amid a shifting federal funding and policy landscape. The Executive Director will work closely with RCF funding partners to support nonprofit organizations responding to policy and funding changes with innovative approaches. The RCF will coordinate with government partners and complement ongoing support from foundations through various strategies.

The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership to advance the fund's agenda, fostering collaboration between nonprofits and government to address basic human needs such as health care, food, housing, safety, and justice. The role requires managing complex initiatives, building external relationships, and leading innovative efforts to build resilience and sustainability in the sector.

Position Responsibilities

Strategy and Program Delivery

• Lead the implementation of Resilient Chicago, developing a strategic grantmaking roadmap to transform basic human service delivery in Cook County.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of grantmaking and program activities.
• Develop and monitor milestones, providing updates to leadership, the steering committee, and funders.
• Ensure the grant portfolio aligns with initiative goals, managing the full grant lifecycle.

Governance

• Manage advisory and steering committees, leading agenda-setting and decision-making.
• Provide financial updates and forecasts aligned with budget goals.

Communications and Partner Relations

• Serve as the principal spokesperson, building relationships with organizations, policymakers, and partners.
• Represent the program externally through meetings, conferences, and media.
• Lead thought leadership activities, sharing insights on challenges and innovations.

Fundraising and Resource Development

• Collaborate with fundraising teams to meet resource goals and pursue new funding opportunities.
• Oversee grant proposal development to ensure adequate resources.

Grantmaking and Innovation

• Develop and implement grantmaking approaches that align with RCFs commitments.
• Manage relationships with grant recipients, providing technical support.
• Develop tools to track and assess impact, improving processes based on data and feedback.

Project Management

• Lead the execution of RCF initiatives, managing project plans and milestones.

Position Qualifications:

• 8-10+ years' experience in community work or relevant sectors; grantmaking experience preferred.
• Leadership experience managing teams and budgets.
• Understanding of local organizational challenges, policies, and sector dynamics.
• Strong networking, facilitation, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with policy or structural change initiatives.
• Commitment to racial equity and community voice.
• Excellent relationship-building and project management skills.

Building an Inclusive Economy

We embrace Chicago's diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive economy where opportunity and prosperity are accessible to all.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Trust is dedicated to diversity and equal opportunity. We do not discriminate based on protected statuses and encourage all qualified candidates to apply. For accommodations, contact [email protected] .

We do not consider demographic data in employment decisions and use nondiscriminatory measures to pursue equity.

The History of The Chicago Community Trust

Founded in 1915, the Trust has a long history of community impact, supporting efforts to address regional challenges and promote equity. With assets over $6 billion, the Trust distributed over $1.5 billion last fiscal year, working to create opportunities for all Chicagoans.