IFF’s José Cerda III was recognized this week by Crain’s Chicago Business (Crain’s) as one of the publication’s 2024 Notable Latino Leaders, which includes 113 Chicagoans who serve in a senior leadership role at their companies or organizations and have a track record of significant accomplishments within their industries. First joining IFF in 2008 as the vice president of public policy and communications, José today serves as the organization’s chief of staff and leads a 14-person team responsible for public policy, communications, grant fundraising, and human resources. He also works closely with IFF CEO Joe Neri and other senior leaders to set strategies for the organization’s continued growth.
Among the professional accomplishments for which José was recognized by Crain’s was the integral role he played in helping to reposition IFF after the pandemic to tackle community disinvestment at the neighborhood and systems level. In 2023, IFF raised $130 million to support the incredible demand for our loans and provided $233.9 million in capital to nonprofit changemakers—exceeding our previous high by more $100 million
Outside of IFF, José has served as a senior advisor to Vice President Joe Biden, as a special assistant for domestic policy to President Bill Clinton, and as chief of policy for Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley. In addition, he has worked in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, as well as in Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development. José is a graduate of Harvard University and co-chairs the Harvard College Fund’s class of 1988 associate committee. He also serves on NeighborWorks Capital Green’s advisory board and on the board of directors for the Erikson Institute.
To see the full list of Crain’s 2024 Notable Latino Leaders, click here.