Managing Director, ChiForward

Managing Director, Chi Forward

Location:

Chicago, IL

About World Business Chicago

World Business Chicago (WBC) drives inclusive economic development and job creation, supports business growth, and promotes Chicago as a leading global city. Our team collaborates with public, private, and civic leaders to advance Chicago’s competitive strengths and expand economic opportunity across the region.

About Chi Forward

Housed and backed by WBC—the city’s public‑private economic development partnership supported by the Mayor’s Office and Chicago’s business community—Chi Forward is a new initiative to turn Chicago into a top destination for financial investment by curating the city’s most transformative projects and connecting them with investors who are motivated by resilient returns and Chicago’s growth.

Position Summary

In coordination with the Vice Chair and the Senior Advisor, the Managing Director will serve as a chief architect and leader of Chi Forward. The role will be responsible for helping shape the strategic vision, building the operating model, and leading execution. This is a senior role requiring exceptional strategic, diplomatic, and operational leadership. The Managing Director will represent Chicago’s global investment strategy to high‑level domestic and international audiences and oversee a multidisciplinary team delivering on the initiative’s objectives.

This position reports to the Vice Chair and the President & CEO of World Business Chicago.

• Refine and articulate Chi Forward’s theory of the case, strategic priorities, and investor engagement process with measurable KPIs.
• Lead overall strategy, operations, and growth of Chi Forward, ensuring alignment with WBC’s mission and integration across other WBC departments.
• Build and manage relationships with a global investor network–ranging from institutional allocators, family offices, sovereign wealth funds, and other investors.
• Design and execute domestic and international investor missions, events, and strategic engagements with clear ROI metrics.
• Develop and manage cross‑sector partnerships ensuring stakeholder alignment, with government partners, business leaders, and civic stakeholders.
• Own budget development, resource allocation, operational planning, performance tracking, staffing, and team performance to ensure operational excellence.
• Serve as a primary public spokesperson and key representative of Chi Forward.
• Cultivate trust and maintain a strong, approachable leadership presence throughout the organization to encourage transparency and strategic alignment.
• Attract, grow, and retain top talent through purposeful mentorship, targeted development initiatives, and robust performance management.
• Lead by example with inclusive practices that inspire collaboration, empower individuals, and foster a culture of continuous growth and shared achievement.
• Manage reporting and administrative functions to support smooth and effective daily operations of the Chi Forward team.

• 12+ years in investing/finance, real estate, economic development, international affairs, or related fields.
• Demonstrated success leading complex, high‑profile initiatives with measurable outcomes.
• Strong U.S. and international network and credibility with senior decision‑makers across finance, business, and government.
• Exceptional leadership, communications, and negotiation skills.
• Experience managing budgets, operations, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Familiarity with the Chicagoland area is preferred.

• Estimated salary range: $160,000 - $190,000

Medical, dental, 401(k), short‑and long‑term disability, vision, life insurance. WBC is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process—or to perform the essential functions of this position—we encourage you to let us know. We will work with you to meet your needs in a respectful and confidential manner.