PROFILE
MARY LEE MONTAGUE
Mary Lee brings a unique background and real-world, bottom-line philosophy to nonprofit C-level recruitment. Her vast experience includes both internal tenure and external consulting for a wide range of local, domestic and global nonprofit clients.
Her eclectic background, global citizenship, and diverse interests contribute to her understanding of human capital and mission-driven organizations.
Mary Lee fully appreciates how IQ, EQ, and CQ all come into play when it’s time to make executive hiring decisions.
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE & BOARD PARTICIPATION
Her personal commitment to philanthropy and mission as well as service-based organizations underscores her expertise. Her board participation has included:
- Blessings in a Backpack – Board of Directors
- Blessings in a Backpack – Executive Committee, Governance Chair
- IWF Chicago Forum Board (Immediate Past President)
- International Women’s Forum (IWF) Leadership Foundation Board
- Chautauqua Institute Capital Campaign Board
- ScoutLogic Board of Advisors for-profit startup led by former candidate!
- Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana Board
- Girl Scouts of the USA International Foundation Board
- Young Women’s Leadership Charter School Board
- Anixter Center Board
- YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago, Associate Board Founder
- YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago, Founding Member, Impact Investing Advisory Council (ETF)
Mary Lee is a true nonprofit leader who feels honored and fortunate to be able to combine her purpose with her passion. She lives near Lake Michigan in the Chicagoland area, with her husband Bruce, their puppy, Lincoln, his BFF Sam the cat, and a variety of tropical fish all named Nemo.
Testimonials
What People are Saying
“Mary Lee has successfully identified four senior executives (CFO, CDO, CSO, CIO) for us in challenging searches. She is exceptionally thorough and energetic, with very useful advice at all steps of the process and a willingness to learn about our business and adjust to some unusual needs.”
Gregory Castle
CEO Emeritus
Best Friends Animal Society
Kanab, UT
“I’ve recommended Mary Lee for three searches for clients. One has actually become a repeat client and I’m sure will never hire again without her. She’s made me look very good. Aside from her obvious expertise I find that she is excellent with the difficult stuff: dealing in a complex environment where there is not l00% consensus; corralling diverse personalities so they all are assured they’re “heard” and understood; standing back and finding the big picture; being appropriately tenacious in making sure the job gets done–right and quickly. Above all she makes sure that clients get what they really need as well as what they think they are looking for. She’s really a partner with them. She’s a rock star.”
Rita Dragonette
Author
Executive Advisor (former)
Chicago, IL
“Mary Lee helped us strategically fill a critical position for the aquarium. It was done efficiently and effectively. She added value and insights along the way! She’s high energy and willing to do what it takes.”
Dr. Bridget C. Coughlin
President and CEO
Shedd Aquarium
Chicago, IL
Years Executive Search
%
Repeat Business
Years Fundraising Executive
%
