Executive Director
Illinois (Remote)
Launched in 2023, Secure Illinois Retirements (SIR) is an independent, non-profit organization seeking to educate and empower public sector workers. SIR provides public sector employees with information about how their pensions are at risk, and how this situation could affect their retirement futures, especially given the fact that most public sector workers in Illinois are not eligible to receive social security.
The goal of SIR is to bring together public sector employees and elected officials in Illinois to find sustainable solutions to the underfunding of pensions. SIR will provide a platform to convene and discuss the current challenges and the various levers for potential solutions.
With many of the organization’s foundational elements in place, SIR is seeking an extraordinary leader to be the Executive Director reporting directly to the Board of Directors. This individual’s role is to lead the organization in developing and executing strategies to educate and rally key stakeholders and interested parties about the potential negative effects of continuing to delay solutions to the public sector pension challenges in Illinois. Once the problem is acknowledged and individual groups have identified potential workable and sustainable solutions, the Executive Director, and the SIR team will serve as a resource to facilitate discussions leading to resolving the funding shortfall throughout the state.
With two years of operational funding in place, the Executive Director is responsible for the executive management and organizational well-being of all aspects of SIR’s programs and initiatives. This individual will work with the Board, public sector workers and unions, and elected officials to build on existing relationships and networks. They will also further develop the Board of Directors.
The ideal candidate will have passion for SIR’s mission, experience working in the public sector, and an understanding of the current pension landscape in Illinois. Demonstrated grit and a successful track record as a visionary leader, manager, marketer, grassroots mobilizer and, over time, fundraiser is expected. The Executive Director will be the public face of SIR and be responsible for building organizational credibility across Illinois with all stakeholders. The ability to influence and motivate others toward consensus and action will be key. A keen understanding of and experience operating in a highly political landscape is critical.
The successful candidate is poised, confident and politically astute who will lead and grow SIR to accomplish its mission. Skilled in coalition building and change management, they will have an appreciation of the actual experiences of current and future Illinois public sector retirees, and the seriousness of the issue. Understanding of and interest in Illinois government and politics will be necessary. Experience with and a passion for grassroots movements, and the ability to successfully develop and sustain a coalition and act as a consensus builder is required.
10+ years in the public sector, labor unions, nonprofit and/or grassroots campaign management at the senior level are required. Bachelor’s degree preferred, master’s degree a plus.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
Starting salary range is $140,000 – $175,000 dependent on experience and qualifications. A healthcare plan or allowance will be provided. Part-time employment will be considered. This position is remote within Illinois. Ability to travel within Illinois and some in-person work will be required.
Secure Illinois Retirements is an equal opportunity employer. No person shall be discriminated against in employment because of such individual’s race, religion, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, ancestry, marital or parental status, military status, national origin, citizenship, veteran’s status, physical or mental handicap unrelated to ability, or any other legally protected status.