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Program Strategist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Chicago Public Schools

Data Strategist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $161K/yr

Collaborate closely with department leaders to develop familiarity and expertise on departmental teams, programs, and operational strategy; utilize department expertise and data to provide input and ...

Chicago Public Schools

Data Strategist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$66K - $87K/yr

Collaborate closely with department leaders to develop familiarity and expertise on departmental teams, programs, and operational strategy; utilize department expertise and data to provide input and ...

City Colleges of Chicago

Data Strategist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $161K/yr

... program, employee and system-levels. Provides strategic data analysis, monitoring strategic metrics, developing and facilitating the tracking of leading performance indicators, and supporting ...

Cyclotron, Inc.

Innovation Strategist

Chicago, IL · Remote

$125K - $144K/yr

Innovation & Strategy Location: Remote (US or Canada) Rate: $125,000-$145,000 USD (rates vary in ... wellness programs, creating a rewarding and supportive workplace for all. Cyclotron relies on ...

Cyclotron, Inc.

Innovation Strategist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$125K - $144K/yr

Innovation & Strategy Location: Remote (US or Canada) Rate: $125,000-$145,000 USD (rates vary in ... wellness programs, creating a rewarding and supportive workplace for all. Cyclotron relies on ...

City Colleges of Chicago

Data Strategist

Chicago, IL

$125K - $161K/yr

... program, employee and system-levels. Provides strategic data analysis, monitoring strategic metrics, developing and facilitating the tracking of leading performance indicators, and supporting ...

Stripe

Risk Strategist, Card Network Compliance

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$84K - $97K/yr

Experience overseeing design execution and delivery of highly strategic programs * Proven ability to take complex issues and turn them into actionable next steps, hold others accountable, and meet ...

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All JobsProgram Strategist JobsProgram Strategist Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Strategist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$122.1K

$180.5K

$244.7K

How much do program strategist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for program strategist in Chicago, IL is $180,473.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $151,900.00 and $209,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between a program manager and a strategist?

A program strategist focuses on developing long-term plans and aligning initiatives with organizational goals, often providing high-level guidance and insights. A program manager oversees the execution of specific projects within a program, managing resources, timelines, and deliverables to ensure objectives are met. Both roles require strategic thinking, but strategists emphasize planning and vision, while managers focus on implementation and operational coordination.

Which 5 jobs will survive AI?

Program strategists and roles involving complex problem-solving, creativity, emotional intelligence, and human interaction are less likely to be fully replaced by AI. Jobs requiring strategic planning, client relationship management, and specialized expertise tend to persist, especially when combined with skills in data analysis and critical thinking. Continuous learning and adaptability remain essential for job security in an AI-augmented workplace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Program Strategist position, and why are they important?

A Program Strategist typically requires expertise in program development, project management, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with project management software (such as Asana or Trello), data visualization tools, and strategic planning frameworks like OKRs or KPIs is often expected. Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving skills help candidates excel in this dynamic role. These competencies are vital for designing effective programs, measuring impact, and driving organizational goals in complex, collaborative environments.

What does a program strategist do?

A program strategist develops and oversees plans to achieve organizational goals by aligning projects, resources, and initiatives. They analyze data, identify priorities, and collaborate with teams to ensure programs are effective and on track, often using project management tools and strategic frameworks.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Program Strategists in high-level consulting, technology, or finance roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. Executive positions such as Chief Strategy Officers or senior management roles in large corporations also typically reach or exceed this salary level. These roles often require strong strategic planning, industry expertise, and sometimes advanced certifications or degrees.

What is a Program Strategist job?

A Program Strategist is responsible for developing, planning, and optimizing programs to align with an organization's goals. They analyze data, identify opportunities, and create strategies to improve program effectiveness. This role often involves cross-functional collaboration, ensuring teams work towards a common objective. Program Strategists also monitor program performance and make data-driven adjustments to maximize impact. Their work is essential in driving growth, efficiency, and long-term success.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by Program Strategists, and how do they impact day-to-day work?

Program Strategists often face challenges such as balancing multiple projects with competing priorities, aligning diverse stakeholder interests, and adapting strategies in response to shifting business goals. These challenges require strong organizational skills and the ability to quickly reassess plans or resources as needed. Successfully navigating these issues means being proactive in communication, regularly reviewing progress, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams. Overcoming these obstacles not only ensures programs stay on track but also positions you as a valuable contributor to your organization’s long-term success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Strategist jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Program Strategist jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Strategist jobs in Chicago, IL? For Program Strategist jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Strategist jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Strategist jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Program Strategist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Strategist job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $180,473 per year, or $86.8 per hour.
Senior Director of Program Strategy & Impact

Senior Director of Program Strategy & Impact

Centers For New Horizons Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity

As Centers enters its next phase of growth, we are intentionally evolving from a strong program implementation organization into a recognized leader in innovation, measurable impact, and community influence. To support this evolution, we are creating a senior leadership position responsible for aligning program strategy, evaluation, organizational learning, and continuous improvement across the agency.

The Senior Director of Program Strategy & Impact will help ensure that Centers not only delivers high-quality services, but continually adapts, improves, and demonstrates measurable results for the children, youth, and families we serve.

Role Summary

The Senior Director of Program Strategy & Impact serves as a key member of the leadership team, responsible for advancing program excellence across the organization. This role integrates strategic program development, performance measurement, evaluation, community engagement, and continuous quality improvement to ensure that Centers maximizes its impact and remains responsive to emerging community needs.

Working closely with program leaders, the Senior Director will help the organization move beyond compliance and reporting toward a culture where data informs decisions, innovation drives growth, and programs continually evolve to strengthen outcomes for children, youth, and families.

Key Areas of FocusProgram Strategy & Development
  • Identify opportunities to strengthen and expand programs aligned with community needs and organizational priorities
  • Monitor emerging trends, best practices, and funding opportunities
  • Support strategic planning and program growth initiatives
  • Foster innovation and crossprogram collaboration
    • Impact Measurement & Evaluation
  • Develop and oversee organizationwide performance measures and outcome frameworks
  • Define and track key performance indicators across all programs
  • Ensure data integrity, consistency, and accessibility
  • Build dashboards and reporting tools that support decisionmaking
    • Continuous Quality Improvement
  • Establish feedback loops that strengthen program performance
  • Lead organizationwide continuous quality improvement efforts
  • Promote a culture of learning, accountability, and innovation
  • Support program leaders in using data to improve outcomes

    • Community Engagement & Strategic Partnerships

  • Convene community conversations, forums, and learning opportunities
  • Build and maintain strategic partnerships that enhance programs and impact
  • Increase organizational visibility and thought leadership
  • Represent Centers in community and sectorwide initiatives

    • Organizational Learning & Capacity Building

  • Strengthen staff capacity around strategic thinking, performance measurement, and evaluation
  • Support leaders in translating insights into action
  • Promote organizational learning and knowledge sharing
  • Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and leadership team
    • What Success Looks Like
  • Leadership has clear visibility into program performance and outcomes
  • Programs continuously evolve based on community need, evidence, and opportunity
  • Data informs decisions rather than simply fulfilling compliance requirements
  • Centers is recognized as a convener, innovator, and thought leader on the South Side
  • Staff embrace a culture of learning, accountability, and continuous improvement
  • Strategic partnerships contribute to greater impact and visibility
    • Ideal Profile
  • Experienced leader with a background in program strategy, evaluation, organizational effectiveness, or continuous improvement
  • Strong systems thinker who can connect data, people, programs, and community impact
  • Experience leading crossfunctional initiatives and organizational change
  • Skilled relationship builder with a collaborative leadership style
  • Comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels
  • Passionate about equity, community impact, and continuous learning
    • Special Consideration

    This role represents a significant investment in Centers’ future. The Senior Director of Program Strategy & Impact will help shape how the organization grows, learns, and measures success—strengthening both our community influence and our measurable impact. The successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to build systems, drive innovation, and help position Centers as a model for excellence across the nonprofit sector.

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