Executive Director

As Chicago Humanities (CH) approaches its 40th anniversary in 2029 and plans for its third endowment campaign, the organization seeks an inspiring, forward-thinking, and visionary leader to serve as its next Executive Director (ED). As the leader of one of Chicago’s most vital civic and cultural institutions, the ED will exhibit passion for protecting and advancing the humanities and the arts in the region and beyond. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED will serve as CH’s chief strategist, ambassador, and fundraiser; focus on expanding its audience, member, and donor base; and sustain CH as a crucial cultural platform where curiosity, creativity, and community converge. The ED will manage a budget of approximately $5 million and a staff of 25, plus approximately 30 seasonal employees, and serve as a key architect of strategic planning in the furtherance of CH’s mission, vision, and financial health.

A unique, innovative, and dynamic not-for-profit, Chicago Humanities is a presenting organization that features programs that reflect on the past, explore the present, and consider the future through the multiple lenses of the arts, humanities, and social sciences. With the core belief that the arts and humanities play a fundamental role in understanding and addressing the pressing civic, social, and cultural issues of our time, CH hosts compelling conversations, engaging events, and powerful performances. These feature authors, artists, scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders at the forefront of their fields, sharing new insights into the human condition. 

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent electronically below. 

Jeff Kessner is leading this search with Mia Carpiniello and Jenny Rubin.

Chicago Humanities is committed to providing a diverse, equitable, accessible, and inclusive workplace where all employees and volunteers, whatever their gender, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation, education, or ability, feel valued and respected. We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal employment and advancement opportunities across all departments, programs, and policies. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages, and ensure that all voices are valued and heard.