The Chicago Network Expands with New Cohort ‘The Rung’ for Emerging Women Leaders

The Chicago Network, an exclusive group that unites women in leadership across the city, is launching a new group known as ‘The Rung.’ This inaugural cohort includes 40 women and aims to connect high-performing female professionals in the early stages of their careers, preparing them for leadership roles.

Maria Doughty, CEO of The Chicago Network, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, We are building this program for these women to come together, to be able to support each other in community. She notes that many women begin developing their networks too late in their careers.

The Chicago Network began in 1979, founded by nine female executives as a supportive community for women across all city sectors. It has since expanded significantly. It just has grown exponentially ever since, Doughty noted, mentioning that members now include astrophysicists, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, artists, renowned surgeons, and university presidents.

Network members have expressed a desire for opportunities like this earlier in their careers. As The Rung committee chair Suzet McKinney explained, You often hear the phrase, it’s lonely at the top, but getting to the top is also lonely. I think The Rung will fill that void. McKinney, involved with The Chicago Network since 2012, praised the supportive environment it fosters.

The Rung is designed as a foundational step for women on their path to leadership. Doughty pointed out the disparity in leadership roles, noting that women occupy very few CEO positions in publicly traded and privately held companies, despite comprising over 50% of the population.

One barrier to women in leadership is hesitance to apply for roles unless they meet almost all criteria, unlike men who apply even when meeting fewer requirements. By engaging with women earlier in their careers, The Rung aims to create a complete leadership pipeline.

Economic growth in Chicago presents opportunities for women, though many are not yet stepping into business profitability roles. Doughty emphasizes the necessity for companies to sponsor women actively, beyond simple mentorship.

Applications for The Rung opened on October 22 and close on December 1. It offers a more affordable option compared to other networks, with a $975 annual membership fee. The 40 selected women will be announced in early January.

Doughty aims to build Chicago’s reputation as a city where women’s leadership is developed intentionally at every career stage.