The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation supports creative people, effective institutions, and influential networks building a more just, verdant, and peaceful world. MacArthur invests in solving some of the world's most pressing social challenges, including advancing global climate solutions, promoting local justice reform in the U.S., revitalizing local news, expanding who creates, uses, and benefits from artificial intelligence, and strengthening the well-being of Native communities. In addition to the MacArthur Fellows Program and the global 100&Change competition, the Foundation continues its historic commitments to the role of journalism in a responsive democracy as well as the vitality of its headquarters city, Chicago.
The MacArthur Foundation is seeking an impactful and collaborative leader to serve as the inaugural Director of AI Opportunity, a new Big Bet focused on the intersection of AI, the economy, and the workforce. This is a rare opportunity to lead a major philanthropic initiative at the intersection of AI, economic opportunity, and community empowerment, with a focus on young people in Chicago, community-centered AI development and use, and nonprofit AI applications.
Reporting to the Managing Director, Programs, the Director will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for developing and implementing AI Opportunity's grantmaking strategy. They will build a small team, shape the field through thought leadership, and represent the Foundation in national and international conversations about the future of work and equitable AI adoption. The Director will partner closely with the Director of Technology in the Public Interest, the incoming Executive Director of Humanity AI, and other foundation partners.
To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter, detailing how you fulfill the role description and personal specification quoting reference 8264. The deadline for applications is 9:00am CT on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
This role is time-limited for an initial period of 5 years with the possibility of extension.
This position is hybrid and based in Chicago, Illinois.
The annual salary for this role will start at $210,100. The MacArthur Foundation offers a generous total compensation package that emphasizes both base salary and a comprehensive benefits package to support your life, health, and well-being.
The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.
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