Special Assistant to the President and CEO

Organization Overview  

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation is a leading philanthropic institution investing more than $75 million annually in Chicagoland, with a focus on improving economic opportunity on Chicago's South and West Sides. The Foundation is named for its donor, Colonel Robert R. McCormick, and the Foundation's Board of Directors also oversees Cantigny, his former estate, which today provides educational and recreational opportunities in Chicago's western suburbs. 

The 500-acre Cantigny estate includes McCormick's Home and Gardens, which host dozens of programs and events annually for nearly half a million visitors; the First Division Museum, a military history museum that tells the story of the U.S. Army's 1st Infantry Division, beginning in World War I, when Col. McCormick served with the Division, to the Division's recent deployments in Europe and the Middle East; and Cantigny Golf, which consists of a 27-hole public golf course and Youth Links, a Par-3 course. 

Position Summary 

The Special Assistant supports the President & CEO, who oversees both the McCormick Foundation and Cantigny, and coordinates special projects, helps manage relationships internally and externally, and compiles and summarizes information to advance organizational priorities. The position works in lockstep with senior leaders and partners closely with the Executive Assistant who manages scheduling, correspondence, and operations for the Foundation's executive team. 

This role offers an opportunity to shape how the organization leads with impact. The Special Assistant will work on a range of projects, from grants management to long-term capital planning, and hone research, communication, and project management skills. External partners with whom this role engages include community-based organizations, major cultural and academic institutions, media partners, military liaisons, and other key stakeholders.  

Success in this position requires the ability to move quickly and thoughtfully and communicate clearly and concisely to inform and operationalize executive decisions. The role requires balancing multiple, time sensitive tasks, It is essential that the Special Assistant be an excellent writer and editor and be trustworthy.

Key Responsibilities 

Communications 

• Analyze complex strategic issues and synthesize diverse perspectives fairly and accurately. 
• Draft, edit, and prepare materials such as presentations, grant updates, policy briefings, talking points, and board documents. 
• Translate complex concepts into clear, accessible communications for internal and external audiences. 
• Support communication between the President & CEO, staff, and external partners. 

Project Management 

• Research topics related to the Foundation's grantmaking and operations, prepare summary materials, and offer clear, concise analysis and recommendations based on research findings.   
• Lead and coordinate special projects to advance organizational priorities. 
• Partner with staff to enhance the impact of programs, operations, and initiatives. 
• Compile, summarize, and analyze information to inform executive decisions. 
• Perform other duties as assigned to advance the Foundation's mission. 

Qualifications  

Education 

Required: Bachelor's degree in History, Social Sciences, Journalism, or other related field  

Experience 

Required: 0–2 years of full-time professional experience OR equivalent internships, research assistantships.  

• Experience in communications, research, project management, or related functions. 
• Demonstrated ability to write and present clearly and effectively. 
• Experience working independently as well as collaboratively in team settings. 

Skills 

• Strong written and oral communication skills. 
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities. 
• High emotional intelligence, diplomacy, and discretion. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) 
• Creative problem-solving skills and adaptability to emerging technologies. 
• Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and alignment with the Foundation's mission and values. 
• Experience with AI, such as ChatGPT, and project management programs, such as Jira, AirTable, preferred 
• Ability and willingness to learn new software/systems quickly 

Working Conditions: 

This is a full-time position. The Foundation is headquartered in downtown Chicago, and most work is performed in a typical office environment. The Special Assistant will also spend time at Cantigny in Wheaton. Regular travel to Wheaton is required.  

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Cantigny Park and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, individuals with disabilities, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital and housing status.