Bean snags new job after loss for Congress

Former U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean has taken a job as CEO of the Executives' Club of Chicago, a business organization run by the top leaders of area companies.

The Barrington Democrat's new job follows her narrow loss in November to Republican U.S. Rep. Joe Walsh of McHenry.

Bean starts later this month.

“We are delighted to have Melissa join us, applying her entrepreneurial spirit and demonstrated commitment to Chicago area businesses to continue the success of The Executives' Club going forward,” Craig Donahue, CEO of CME Group and chairman of the Executives' Club board, said in a statement.

The club described the hunt for a CEO as a “worldwide search.” The statement describes Bean's efforts in Congress to hold forums for local businesses and help with Wall Street reforms.

“The opportunity to lead this venerable forum forward is a privilege I'm extremely honored to have and enthusiastic to advance with the members of the Executives' Club,” Bean said in a statement.

Bean hasn't spoken much publicly since the her loss and hasn't said whether she plans to run again, despite recent talk that top Democrats might encourage her to take another shot.

She first won office in 2004 and served in Congress until her term ended in January. Before serving in Congress, Bean led a home-based business.

At the Executives' Club, Bean replaces Kaarina Koskenalusta, who had a 25-year run with the organization. She stepped down in October of last year.