LEAD is a comprehensive leadership development program created by the Exec Club and endorsed by Chicago’s HR leaders through the HRMAC Institute.
Participants enhance their leadership skills, expand their networks, and gain invaluable insights through real-world experiences.
Every topic was interesting and highly applicable to my career to date and future aspirations. The presenters were all very informative, engaging, and inspiring. I would leave every session having learned some new tip, skill, or nugget of information that I could quickly apply.
There was good camaraderie, communication, and a sense of trust and support amongst the program participants.
LEAD is designed to help individuals excel in executive roles and the C-suite by enhancing key leadership skills.
We are excited to announce the launch of Virtual LEAD in 2026. This new format delivers the same high-impact experience in a flexible, online format for leaders outside of the Chicago Metro Area.
Participants in both formats are empowered to maximize their leadership potential, drive positive change in their industries, and make a lasting impact on their organizations and the broader community.
As a Latina executive, who’s passionate about my professional development, LEAD has given me a comprehensive toolkit to help fuel my growth and leadership. It is a transformative program and I encourage fellow executives looking to advance in their fields to embrace LEAD.
LEAD Alumni Network
LEAD Alumni are invited to continue to connect and support one another in various ways.
Upon program completion, participants receive an invitation to join our LEAD Alumni private group on LinkedIn.
LEAD Alumni are invited each year to join the current cohort at their graduation ceremony and networking reception. This is a great opportunity to continue to make connections and welcome the new LEAD Alumni.
Leadership Circle is a peer development experience where LEAD Alumni are thoughtfully curated into small groups with peers across industry, function, and cohort.
Having the sponsored opportunity to carve out time for executive coaching, development tracking in a structured curriculum while working with a cohort of local rising leaders in diverse industries and perspectives was a unique and high-value experience.
With business school faculty and industry experts engaging in our program this allowed for thought-provoking conversations and helped to further develop leadership competencies.
The Executives’ Club of Chicago is committed to fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in all its programs. For this reason, we recommend all organizations participating in the LEAD program aim to select 50% of participants from traditionally under-represented backgrounds. This approach ensures that the program mirrors the diverse composition of the Chicago business community and actively promotes inclusivity.
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It’s not just a membership, it’s an opportunity.