Program Coordinator | Chicago

M² : The Institute for Experiential Jewish Education’s mission is to equip Jewish educators, professionals, and organizations with the creativity and capacity to deliver powerful Jewish experiences. We design and deliver high-caliber training programs and consulting services that strengthen educators and the organizations they serve. While our primary focus is North America, M² also maintains a growing presence in Israel and Europe. With offices in New York, Chicago and Israel, we are a nimble, cutting edge and deeply relational organization guided by five core values: generosity, humility, rigor, innovation, and integrity. We care deeply about our work and about how we work.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Program Coordinator plays a vital role in bringing M²’s learning experiences to life. Reporting to the Senior Program Director, this position serves as the operational backbone of our programs and special projects — ensuring that every gathering, webinar, training, project, and resource is executed with precision, care, and excellence. From managing logistics and materials to coordinating vendors and supporting participants, the Program Coordinator ensures that our participants, faculty, and relevant stakeholders experience seamless, high-quality learning environments. This role is ideal for someone who takes genuine pride in organization, follow-through, and attention to detail. If you derive satisfaction from checklists completed, materials beautifully prepared, systems running smoothly, and events executed flawlessly, this role will be deeply fulfilling.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Planning, Coordination, and Execution (50%) Partner with program team members to translate programmatic visions into well-executed, immersive learning experiences. Oversee the full lifecycle of program materials, including sourcing, tracking, preparing, printing, packaging, and shipping, ensuring every detail reflects M²’s high standards and aesthetic. Plan, coordinate, and execute all program logistics with exceptional attention to detail, ensuring seamless delivery of in-person and virtual programs. Develop and maintain logistical timelines, track deliverables, and proactively coordinate with team members to ensure program preparations remain on schedule. Research and evaluate venues and vendors aligned with budget, M²’s standards, and programmatic needs. Serve as the primary relationship manager to vendors including catering, A/V, travel, and accommodations. Serve as the primary liaison to staff and faculty regarding program logistics, schedules, and session needs. Manage Perk for assigned programs, M²’s travel booking platform, coordinating participant travel arrangements, providing booking support, and serving as the primary point of contact for travel-related inquiries and issues. Provide on-site logistical and technical support during programs, troubleshooting calmly and effectively in real time to ensure a seamless and welcoming participant experience. Program Operations, Systems, and Resource Management (40%) Serve as the technical lead for North American Zoom program webinars and virtual gatherings, ensuring smooth execution and troubleshooting technical issues. Coordinate Salesforce and Campaign Monitor activities for assigned programs, ensuring accurate data management and serving as the primary point of contact for program-specific needs within these platforms. Coordinate closely with faculty and program team members to anticipate and fulfill programmatic material needs. Manage the production and distribution of M²-created educational resources, coordinating with vendors and internal teams as needed. Track and maintain inventory of program and organizational supplies and materials, managing organizational storage and ensuring resources are accessible and organized. Oversee the M² Etsy store, including managing orders, fulfilling and shipping Crossroads card purchases, monitoring inventory, and coordinating restocking. Provide additional operational support aligned with evolving programmatic and organizational needs. Office Administration and Coordination (10%) Serve as the primary point of contact for day-to-day Chicago office operations, including maintaining relationships with building management (e.g., Industrious). Manage incoming mail and deliveries, ensuring correspondence and packages are distributed or forwarded to the appropriate individuals or offices. Coordinate conference room reservations, guest registrations, and visitor access for meetings and organizational guests. Monitor, order, and replenish office supplies, snacks, and other shared office resources. Support a well-organized, welcoming, and functional office environment that contributes to a positive team culture.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum of 2 years of experience in event coordination, project management, customer-facing operations, or similar roles (experience in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization strongly preferred). Demonstrates a service-oriented mindset, anticipating needs and responding thoughtfully to teammates as well as external stakeholders. Exceptional organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and accurately. Proven ability to organize systems and track details. Strong written and verbal communication skills; professional and welcoming client-facing demeanor. Comfort navigating fast-paced and evolving environments with flexibility, calmness and sound judgment. Self-directed and action-oriented, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. High comfort level with technology; experience with Salesforce, Monday.com, Campaign Monitor, Canva, or similar platforms preferred. This job requires 20 days of travel, in addition to all staff retreats. Salary range $63,000-$67,000 USD annually , commensurate with experience and qualifications. Comprehensive benefits package including generous paid time off, Jewish and nationally observed holidays, professional development support, and additional perks. A values-driven, warm, and intellectually rigorous work environment. A collaborative team committed to growth, innovation, and meaningful impact in the field of Jewish education. The Chicago office is located in Evanston, IL and practices a work environment in which staff can work from home on Wednesdays and Fridays. M² is an Equal Opportunity employer. Personnel are chosen on the basis of ability without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, marital status or sexual orientation. We are committed to building a team that represents a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, experiences and skills. #J-18808-Ljbffr Institute for Experiential Jewish Education