Director Board of Directors

Company Description: Social Enterprise Chicago is a mission-driven convening organization that empowers for-profit, nonprofit, and hybrid ventures using earned-revenue strategies to create positive social, economic, and environmental impact. The organization promotes ethical, sustainable business practices, supports consumer demand for values-aligned enterprises, and encourages corporate accountability to all stakeholders. Early initiatives included a Social Enterprise Certificate program with the University of Illinois at Chicago, connecting social entrepreneurs, students, and community leaders in an intensive 16-week experience. Today, Social Enterprise Chicago collaborates with partner organizations on incubators, symposiums, and networking events that provide coaching, mentorship, and practical resources to mission-driven ventures. Through these activities, participants gain visibility, market support, and connections across Social Enterprise Chicago’s growing regional network.

Role Description: The Director, Board of Directors role is a volunteer, position based in the Greater Chicago Area. The Director will provide strategic governance and oversight, helping guide Social Enterprise Chicago’s mission, long-term vision, and organizational priorities. Responsibilities include participating in board meetings, reviewing and approving strategic plans and budgets, and ensuring strong alignment with social, economic, and environmental impact goals. The Director will collaborate with fellow board members, staff, and partner organizations to support programs such as incubators, symposiums, and networking initiatives, and may engage in fundraising, stakeholder outreach, and community representation. This role also involves mentoring social entrepreneurs, offering guidance on ethical business practices, and fostering partnerships that strengthen the regional social enterprise ecosystem.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in board governance or senior leadership, including strategic planning, fiscal oversight, and organizational stewardship.
• Background in social enterprise, impact investing, nonprofit management, or mission-driven business, with understanding of earned-revenue models and stakeholder accountability.
• Strong relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with Chicago and Cook County community organizations, academic partners, entrepreneurs, and funders.
• Proven capacity in mentoring or coaching leaders, especially within startup, nonprofit, or social venture contexts.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to represent the organization publicly and advocate for ethical, sustainable business practices.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability in business and organizational decision-making.
• Experience with program/start-up development (i.e. incubators, accelerators); evaluation, or ecosystem-building initiatives is highly beneficial.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, social sciences, or a related field; advanced degree or equivalent leadership experience preferred.