Nila Diab leads Start Early’s work across Illinois, bringing together the organization’s early learning and care programs and its policy and research efforts in the state to strengthen outcomes for children and families.
An experienced leader in nonprofit and early childhood, she brings a focus on strengthening organizations so they can better serve children, families and communities. In her role as Executive Director of Illinois, Nila works closely with leaders and Start Early Illinois’ teams to align strategy and day-to-day operations, helping ensure our work is both effective today and sustainable for the future.
Before joining Start Early, Nila served as chief of staff at Chicago Commons, where she partnered with senior leadership to guide organizational strategy and performance. She led cross-functional initiatives spanning programs, operations, facilities and technology, while also supporting board engagement and helping the organization navigate changing financial and community needs.
Nila has a strong track record of leading complex initiatives and working alongside executive teams and boards to strengthen performance and advance long-term priorities.
She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Southwest Development Corporation and is a fellow of Leadership Greater Chicago and an alumna of the University of Chicago Civic Leadership Academy.
Nila earned her degree from Loyola University Chicago and lives Chicago with her family.
