Director, Foundation & Trust — Education Impact Leader

CME Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

CME Group Foundation is seeking a Director to lead the Foundation and CME Trust, guiding strategic direction, program development and financial oversight in Chicago and across the region. The role supervises operations, fosters external relations and steers grantmaking aligned with long-term community impact.

This executive will oversee governance, budgeting, and compliance while serving as a public-facing representative of CME Group and the Foundation, traveling locally and nationally as needed.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated interest in early childhood, K-12 and post‑secondary education, expertise in at least one of these areas.
• Senior‑level managerial experience with proven ability to strategically lead and manage an organization.
• Relevant leadership experience in philanthropic, public or business sectors.
• Experience in or knowledge of Illinois and Chicago with an appreciation for underserved communities.
• Strong track record as a motivator, collaborator, innovator and builder of partnerships.
• Experience in conceiving, analyzing, implementing and evaluating program initiatives in relevant fields.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a broad range of individuals and organizations.
• Ability to secure the trust and confidence of Board members, colleagues and grantees.
• Understanding of legal, financial and ethical requirements of private foundations.
• Experience with strategic planning, financial management and program operations.
• Willingness to serve as an external-facing representative and travel locally and nationally.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Governance, Board Administration and Support: enable Foundation and Trust governance.
• Financial and Legal: coordinate with investment advisor and finance/legal teams for compliance.
• Program Development and Operations: implement mission and grantmaking goals.
• Administrative Management: supervise day‑to‑day operations and staff.
• External and Community Relations: present Foundation mission to stakeholders.

Skills

Early childhood education

K-12 education

Post-secondary education

Senior-level leadership

Strategic planning

Fundraising & grantmaking

Partnership development

Communication skills

Illinois/Chicago knowledge

Board governance

Public/private sector experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

CME Group Foundation is seeking a Director to lead the Foundation and CME Trust, guiding strategic direction, program development and financial oversight in Chicago and across the region. The role supervises operations, fosters external relations and steers grantmaking aligned with long-term community impact.

This executive will oversee governance, budgeting, and compliance while serving as a public-facing representative of CME Group and the Foundation, traveling locally and nationally as needed.