Executive Director

Job Description

About the Organization

The Investigative Project on Race and Equity is a mission-driven nonprofit news organization committed to producing impactful investigative journalism through collaboration, data analysis and a focus on racial and social equity. In addition to reporting, the organization invests in training the next generation of journalists— particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds—through mentorship, hands-on experience and professional development. 

About the Position

The full-time Executive Director manages the operational and financial aspects of the Investigative Project on Race and Equity. Duties include supervising and managing staff, budgeting, preparing accurate financial reports for the Board of Directors, and supervising communications, collaborations, training and fundraising activities. 

The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and supports the work of an active group of volunteers, known as the Advisory Council. The Executive Director will have four direct reports: Director of Engagement, Training Coordinator, Editorial Director and a development consultant. 

Chicago area residence is required. 

Compensation and Benefits

The salary for this position is $100,000. The Investigative Project offers a competitive benefits package that includes four weeks of paid vacation (which includes two weeks off at the end of the year), health-care, vision and dental coverage and a flexible schedule. This is a hybrid position and Chicago area residence is required.

How to Apply

The Investigative Project has retained Morten Group, LLC to conduct this search. Applicants should complete the form available at mortengroup.com/executive-placements/ipre, including the submission of a cover letter and resume in PDF format by the best consideration date of Friday, December 5, 2025. Cover letters will be evaluated as a writing sample. Please note that only those applicants invited to a screening interview will be contacted between December 12 and December 22, 2025.

The Project encourages individuals from traditionally underrepresented communities to apply and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, physical or mental disability, veteran/military status, unfavorable discharge, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation. The Project prohibits all forms of unlawful discrimination, including discrimination because of any one of the protected statuses listed above.

Job Requirements

Position Qualifications

Experience

• Five or more years' experience managing a nonprofit organization, including fundraising 

• Bachelor's Degree required

• Basic bookkeeping and accounting skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Excel 

• Ability to set up and manage systems for efficient operation of the organization 

• Experience with and commitment to investigative and data journalism 

Competencies

• Ability to work cooperatively with a diverse group of leaders

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, for multiple audiences

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