Join Our Team
The Chicago Association of REALTORS® unites all facets of the real estate industry as a leading advocate, driving REALTOR® business success and supporting the economic development of our communities. Since 1883, the Chicago REALTORS® has been the ‘Voice of Real Estate’ in Chicago, representing over 16,000 members across all real estate specialties.
As the ninth-largest local REALTOR® association in the country, the Chicago REALTORS® has a visible national footprint, with its leadership team serving at the state and national levels. We are steadfast in our commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion within the real estate industry, and actively work to advocate for fair housing practices that ensure equal opportunities for all individuals.
The Chicago Association of REALTORS®’ culture is built on a foundation of excellence, where we strive to set the example; leadership, as architects of careers and communities; diversity, embracing differences in people, thoughts and values; respect, valuing our people; collaboration, breaking down barriers to achieve shared goals; and advocacy, championing our people, members, initiatives and industry. Our workplace culture led us to earn the award of one of the Best Places to Work by Crain’s Chicago Business in 2021.
Open Position(S)
To Apply:
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to talent@victoriagillespieconsulting.com.
The Chicago Association of REALTORS® is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
Director of Public Affairs
Department: Communications, External Affairs/Foundation
Supervisor: Chief Communications Officer
Location: Chicago, IL. On-site
Salary: $100,000 – $110,000
The Director of Public Affairs is responsible for elevating the public narrative around how Chicago REALTORS® show up and make a difference in neighborhoods and in partnership with the community. This role ensures that consumer-facing messaging, community impact stories, philanthropic initiatives and REALTOR® engagement efforts are aligned, visible and compelling.
This position leads the development of a unified public affairs platform that builds trust with consumers and invites collaboration from mission-aligned organizations, corporate partners, and donors.
Through programs, campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and strategic development efforts, the Director of Public Affairs will amplify the work of Chicago REALTORS® in housing, equity, and economic mobility, while securing resources and partnerships that sustain and grow these initiatives, positioning the organization as a trusted partner of choice for civic-minded companies and communities.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Alignment & Leadership
- Integrate development and corporate fundraising into strategic leadership, cultivating sponsors, donors, and partners to advance advocacy, policy, and community goals.
- Lead the development and execution of an integrated consumer affairs strategy that
connects advocacy, policy and community programming. - Lead the programs and initiatives that define our impact—including our Foundation, D77 Diversity Committee, Global and Industry Partners and drive messaging and communications strategy around these initiatives.
- Serve as a cross-departmental liaison to ensure consistent communication, branding and community storytelling.
- Oversee the Public Affairs department, cultivating a collaborative and high-performing department. They set the strategic direction for these initiatives and holds accountability for their programming, budgets, performance and alignment with organizational goals.
Public Engagement & Impact
- Design and manage consumer outreach campaigns, educational efforts and visibility programs that strengthen community relationships and public awareness.
- Oversee the development of data-driven reports, infographics and content that demonstrate the impact of Foundation investments and advocacy outcomes.
- Cultivate partnerships with local housing organizations, community leaders, nonprofits and media to broaden the reach of REALTOR®-led efforts.
- Lead outreach to potential corporate sponsors and philanthropic partners to support programs.
Program Oversight & Support
- Coordinate and evaluate programs that connect consumers to housing opportunities, financial literacy, fair housing education and other public benefit initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to connect advocacy campaigns with community-based programming to maximize relevance and reach.
- Support grant reporting, proposal development and performance metrics tied to consumer outcomes.
- Serve as the staff liaison to the Chicago Association of REALTORS® Foundation, the charitable arm of the association.
- Identify, pursue, and manage funding opportunities, including sponsorships, grants, and donor engagement.
Stakeholder & Member Relations
- Collaborate with REALTOR® members, committees, and advisory groups to gather insight and elevate local efforts to a broader audience.
- Provide staff support and leadership to member-led consumer engagement groups as needed.
- Act as a thought partner with leadership to position the Association as a leader in public trust, equitable housing, and community impact.
- Serve as the staff liaison to the Chicago Association of REALTORS® Foundation, the charitable arm of the association.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs, Communications, Nonprofit Management, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in public affairs, housing policy, community engagement, or a related area. 3 years of management experience
- Demonstrated success in developing and executing public-facing initiatives and cross-sector partnerships.
- Experience in development, fundraising, and corporate sponsorship acquisition preferred.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong strategic thinking and cross-functional leadership skills.
- Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication abilities.
- Knowledge of housing issues, fair housing policy, or the real estate industry preferred.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively across departments, manage programs, and lead projects to completion.
- Deep understanding of the connection between advocacy, philanthropy, and community
Working Conditions & Expectations
- Occasional evening and weekend work required for events or meetings.
- Limited travel may be required for conferences, trainings, or outreach.
- This is a full-time, exempt position with competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth.
To Apply:
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to talent@victoriagillespieconsulting.com.
The Chicago Association of REALTORS® is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.