Economic Empowerment Leader - Climate Change Expert

Self-Help Credit Union seeks an Economic Empowerment Leader - Climate Change Expert in Chicago, IL. This role involves developing strategic investments aligned with the National Clean Investment Fund, managing an investment portfolio, and cultivating partnerships to promote economic justice and climate resilience. Candidates should have a relevant degree and 7 years of experience in structured finance or related fields, with a commitment to underserved communities.
About Us

Self-Help Credit Union is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating economic opportunities for underserved communities. With a focus on economic justice and climate resilience, we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of our members.

Our Mission

We are committed to delivering clean energy products and services to communities in need, as part of our partnership with Climate United. Our team's goal is to address climate change and promote economic empowerment, particularly in Justice40 communities and Low-Income and Disadvantaged Communities.

Job Summary

The Climate Capital Director will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic investment initiatives aligned with the goals of the National Clean Investment Fund (NCIF). This position requires strong leadership skills, experience in structured finance, and a deep understanding of economic justice and climate finance principles.

Main Responsibilities
• Develop Strategic Investments: Collaborate with internal teams to identify and evaluate investment opportunities, conducting thorough due diligence and risk assessments to ensure alignment with program objectives.
• Manage Investment Portfolio: Monitor performance and impact metrics to drive positive outcomes for both investors and communities.
• Cultivate Partnerships: Develop relationships with community organizations, industry leaders, and policymakers to maximize the fund's impact and advance environmental justice and economic equity.
• Represent Self-Help: Serve as a key representative of Self-Help at conferences, workshops, and other events to raise awareness and build networks within the environmental finance and economic justice communities.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in urban planning, public policy, community development, finance, economics, or a related field OR equivalent related experience; advanced degree preferred.
• 7 years' of experience in structured finance, climate resilience, investment management, or related field, with a proven track record of success in driving impact investment strategies.
• Deep understanding of economic justice, climate finance, and community development principles.
• Strong commitment to our mission – creating economic opportunity for traditionally underserved communities.
• Prior supervisory experience coaching and leading.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas and influence diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly in serving Justice40 communities and Low-Income and Disadvantaged Communities.

What We Offer

We offer a dynamic work environment, competitive compensation package, and opportunities for professional growth and development. If you are passionate about creating economic opportunities for underserved communities and addressing climate change, we encourage you to apply.