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What Is LEAD?

LEAD is a comprehensive 10-month 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.

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About LEAD

LEAD is designed to help individuals excel in executive roles and the C-suite by enhancing key leadership skills.

Participants 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.

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Program Features

  • Top-tier, structured, comprehensive leadership enhancement curriculum
  • Results and feedback from leadership assessment tools
  • One-on-one monthly executive coaching for the duration of the program
  • Access to diverse and influential peer network
  • Minimizes extended work absences
  • Safe, confidential environment to address participant issues and challenges
  • Endorsed by Chicago’s top HR leaders through the HRMAC Institute at  Exec Club, ensuring latest trends and best practices in leadership development

Participant Profile

  • Senior executives with P&L responsibilities managing substantial teams
  • Individuals being considered for C-Suite positions
  • Leaders looking to enhance existing skills
  • Executives looking for a cohort-based peer setting

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.

Important Dates & Information

  • Application Deadline: February 7, 2025
  • Program Dates: March 13, 2025-November 6, 2025
  • Session Location: 425 S Financial Pl., Chicago, IL 

What’s Included

  • Hogan StrengthsFinder Assessments
  • Ten 1:1 executive coaching sessions 
  • Nine in-person learning sessions with breakfast and lunch included 
  • Three networking receptions: Opening, Mid-Year, and Closing   

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Application Form

LEAD Alumni Network

Be A Part Of The Community

LEAD Alumni are invited to continue to connect and support one another in various ways.

LEAD Alumni Group

Upon program completion, participants receive an invitation to join our LEAD Alumni private group on LinkedIn.

LEAD Networking Reception

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. 

LEAD Leadership Circle

Leadership Circle is a peer development experience where LEAD Alumni are thoughtfully curated into small groups with peers across industry, function, and cohort.

Past Participating Organizations

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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Become a Member

It’s not just a membership, it’s an opportunity.