Noetic Changemaker Series

Nina Idemudia- Chief Executive Officer, Center for Neighborhood Technology

What was your experience working with Noetic Search like?

Noetic is the first search firm that I ever worked with, and I appreciated the conversations we had about my transferable skills. Noetic understood what the organization wants and needs, which is different from posting a job opening. They answered my questions, which helped me gather the information I needed.  They also helped facilitate the salary negotiation, and since this was my first time in this type of role and industry, it was very helpful. Having someone who could walk me through the process was very valuable.

What impact are you most proud of on behalf of your organization?

The investment we have made internally. We didn’t have pay scales, we didn’t track gender, race, or salary. Now we can track these things. We also created a neurodivergent policy.  We are doing a strategic plan, so new ideas are bubbling up. We are  preparing ourselves internally, putting more into our employees so that they can live their best lives.

How do you stay connected to the communities you serve?

I am the community I serve, it is very natural. I knew some of the staff and board members, as well as community members, from my work with the city. Continuing to cultivate the relationships I already have is easy for me.  I am now the Executive Director of an organization that talks to the communities that I live in. I show up at events. I have expanded my relationships in Logan Square, Pilsen, and areas even further south.  

I have broadened my ability to expand my network. I am a planner and have been meeting with organizations focused on environmental justice and climate resilience. I have a whole network of people that I am learning from. I am going to conferences. For instance, I attended the Aspen Institute Ideas conference, which was enjoyable as I learned about emerging issues, expanded my knowledge base, and gained insight into my own space. 

I have also expanded the Board and recruited a new Board member from a Public Relations firm as we needed better branding and messaging. We are building the Board's muscle and setting different expectations. 

Do you have a motto or mantra you live by?

Live with purpose and on purpose.  I want to save the little Ninas of the world. I want to take care of myself.  My work can’t consume me. I am learning how to do this better because I need to be restored.