Executive Director, Human Centered Weather Forecasts

Department

SSD Development Economics Center: Staff and Temporary Employees

About the Department

The Development Innovation Lab at the University of Chicago uses the tools of economics to develop innovations with the potential to benefit millions of people in low- and middle-income countries. It was founded and is led by Nobel laureate Michael Kremer.

Job Summary

The Executive Director manages multiple related teams responsible for leadership within the Center. The role is administratively based at the Development Innovation Lab (DIL) at the University of Chicago and leads the UChicago Human‑Centered Forecasts initiative, a new interdisciplinary initiative to transform access to high‑quality weather forecasts in low‑ and middle‑income countries.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic plan for the Human‑Centered Weather Forecasts initiative.
• Oversee overall management across workstreams led by faculty leads.
• Supervise the Director of Human‑Centered Weather Forecasts, the Director of Policy, and related Research & Policy Managers.
• Provide technical project management, reporting, and team management for the initiative.
• Coordinate with internal and external researchers focused on validating, generating, and disseminating improved forecasts.
• Lead negotiations and collaborations with stakeholders to design and execute projects.
• Represent the initiative at high‑level meetings with policymakers, funders, nonprofit leaders, and business executives.
• Spearhead efforts to secure $20‑$50 million in funding for the program.
• Lead the Center’s senior management, liaison activities with other university units, and budget management.
• Perform additional related work as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• College or university degree in a related field.
• Knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of related work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in economics, public policy, sustainable development, climate science, agrometeorology, or a related field.
• Prior experience supervising teams in higherli>
• Experience leading grant proposals or securing substantial funding for large‑scale programs.
• Proven track record of working with multiple stakeholders, including governments, multilaterals, and large international organizations, to build successful policies.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Experience engaging with foundations and the private sector and familiarity with development economics and AI techniques in climate science or meteorology.

Working Conditions

• Willingness to travel extensively (30‑50%) including international travel.

Benefits and Compensation

Pay Range: $165,000.00 – $201,000.00 (Salary)

Be eligible for an extensive benefits program including health, retirement, and paid time off. Detailed information can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class under applicable law. All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check as outlined in university policy.