Program Manager

ABOUT LEADERSHIP GREATER CHICAGO (LGC):

Leadership Greater Chicago (LGC) is the region’s premier civic leadership development program, delivering the knowledge and network to lead bold, transformative change. LGC convenes, connects, and activates the area’s most promising leaders around key socioeconomic issues through dynamic education and experiential activities. These diverse individuals represent the most prominent corporate, nonprofit, government, and education organizations.

Since its founding in 1983 by The Chicago Community Trust, LGC has developed nearly 1,500 leaders through its Signature Fellows Program – an intensive 10-month exploration of current socioeconomic issues that provides the foundation for a lifelong commitment to civic engagement. Fellows learn from a diversity of perspectives, styles and world views, and develop the capacity to approach and break down complex problems to drive transformative change in effective and collaborative ways.

In 2019, LGC launched The Daniel Burnham Fellowship – an accelerated civic onboarding experience for senior executives who are committed to civic engagement and can play a part in shaping the future of Chicago. While beneficial to any executive, it is especially beneficial for those who are new to Chicago or new to their role. The Fellowship is designed to inspire these leaders to activate and exert their combined influence and intellect to positively impact Chicago, its future and the continued economic progress of the Region for all. To date, over 200 C-suite executives have participated in this innovative leadership experience

Job Description

The Program Manager (PM) reports to the Managing Director of Programs. The PM is responsible for organizing, coordinating, and executing the logistics of the Signature Fellows Program and Leadership Series, as well as the recruitment and selection process related to the Program. Additionally, the PM provides event support for public forums with programmatic partners.

The PM is a critical member of the Program Team and has the opportunity to bring thought partnership to both program development and relationship building, while also managing administrative details and logistics to ensure world-class delivery of the Signature Fellows Program and a quality experience for all Fellows.

Key responsibilities

Program operations and logistics

• Maintain the annual program calendar, session schedules, timelines, task trackers, and event run-of-show documents.
• Coordinate program logistics, including venue arrangements, contracts, catering, accessibility needs, materials, setup, and vendor communications.
• Prepare and distribute agendas, speaker briefs, participant communications, and other program materials.
• Coordinate scheduling and information-sharing with speakers, Fellows, partners, and internal colleagues.
• Support day of logistics and coordination for all program events
• Track deadlines and program expenses; maintain accurate records and alert the Managing Director to risks, delays, or budget variances.
• Provide on-site support for program sessions and events, including attendance tracking, troubleshooting, and post-event follow-up.
• Maintain organized program files and document procedures for recurring activities.
• Coordinate experiential activities, such as tours, workshops, and civic engagement projects, according to program plans established by the Managing Director.

Recruitment and application administration

• Coordinate recruitment events, including scheduling, registration, materials, speaker participation, and follow-up.
• Maintain application forms, evaluation materials, candidate records, and the SmarterSelect system.
• Coordinate interview scheduling and candidate communications.
• Track recruitment and selection milestones and prepare accurate information for the Managing Director and designated reviewers.
• Support the selection process administratively; final selection decisions are made by the Managing Director and designated reviewers.
• Maintain candidate tracking data and ensure timely follow-up and accurate records.

Systems, data, and process management

• Maintain accurate participant and program information in Salesforce, SmarterSelect, and related systems.
• Create and maintain checklists, templates, trackers, and procedures to support consistent program execution.
• Collect participant evaluations and feedback, organize the information, and prepare summaries for review.
• Support accurate data entry, reporting, and information management across program activities.
• Identify workflow, documentation, or data-quality issues and suggest practical process improvements.

Organizational support

• Coordinate with colleagues to support smooth handoffs and timely completion of program-related tasks.
• Support major organizational events and initiatives as assigned, including the annual Celebrate Leaders benefit.

Qualifications and experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant experience.
• At least five years of experience in program coordination, event operations, project administration, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to manage detailed workflows, schedules, logistics, and multiple deadlines.
• Experience maintaining databases, CRM or application-tracking systems, spreadsheets, and accurate records.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel; Salesforce and SmarterSelect experience is preferred. Experience with comparable systems will be considered.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a responsive and professional approach to customer service.
• Proven ability to develop and follow repeatable processes, checklists, and documentation.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to anticipate operational needs, solve practical problems, and remain flexible under pressure.
• Ability to work effectively with colleagues, participants, senior leaders, speakers, vendors, and community partners.
• Commitment to civic engagement, nonprofit work, and delivering a high-quality participant experience.

Compensation and benefits

The annual salary range is $70,000–$85,000, with offers commensurate with experience. Full-time employee benefits include health, vision, dental, life, short-term disability, and supplemental insurance; a 401(k) plan; and an Employee Assistance Program.

Leadership Greater Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce. Individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including persons with disabilities and veterans.