A partial list of in-process searches follows, along with a brief position description. If you wish to be considered, please contact the consultant listed via e-mail with a resume attached.

General inquiries should be sent via regular mail. If your background and experience are appropriate for our practice, we will include your information in our database, and will contact you in the future.

Please click on a particular search for a brief position description:

THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY IN CAIRO
President

ARCUS FOUNDATION
Executive Director

THE ATLANTIC PHILANTHROPIES
Senior Web Strategist

DORIS DUKE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
Program Director - Medical Research Program

HONOLULU ACADEMY OF ARTS
Director

THE JOHN TEMPLETON FOUNDATION
Executive Vice President

THE NATION INSTITUTE
President

NATIONAL ACADEMY FOUNDATION
Vice President of Institutional Advancement

THE NATIONAL RELIGIOUS PARTNERSHIP FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Executive Director

THE NEW SCHOOL FOR CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS
Provost

PAUL SMITH'S COLLEGE
Vice President for Institutional Advancement

PROSPECT PARK
President/Administrator

SCO FAMILY OF SERVICES
Excutive Director/Chief Executive Officer

U.S.-MEXICO FOUNDATION
Chief Executive Officer

THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY IN CAIRO, Cairo, Egypt

President

Founded in 1919, The American University in Cairo (AUC) (www.aucegypt.edu) is an independent nonprofit university, chartered and accredited in both the United States and Egypt.  AUC’s mission is to provide high quality educational opportunities to students from all segments of Egyptian society as well as from other countries and to contribute to Egypt’s cultural and intellectual life.  The University offers programs at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels as well as an extensive continuing education program.  The University advances, in an Egyptian context, the ideals of American liberal arts and professional education and lifelong learning.

The President of the American University in Cairo is the chief executive officer and works with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, parents, students and alumni to provide leadership and direction to the University.  The President reports to a 36-person international Board of Trustees, and is a member of the Board.  The new President will be expected to enhance the University’s existing strengths and help it develop new ones during the coming period in the University’s long history. 

Among the major challenges facing the new President will be:  to provide strategic leadership and management direction for the next phase of AUC’s development; to build and strengthen AUC’s reputation for academic excellence; to focus on the academic needs of the University, including its undergraduate and graduate programs; to extend the University’s reach within the region and raise its profile in the United States; and to mobilize the human and financial resources needed to achieve AUC’s goals and aspirations.

Leading candidates for the Presidency of AUC will have distinguished records of accomplishment in higher education, diplomacy, NGO and/or other professional fields where international skills and sensitivities are essential.  They will have demonstrated great leadership and management skills, the ability to operate in a multicultural environment and a commitment to liberal arts undergraduate education, as well as top-notch graduate professional education and research.

Strong personal dedication to the values of community service, international understanding and academic excellence is an important prerequisite, as is the ability to inspire students, faculty and staff to uphold these “core values.”  The successful candidate also will have a commitment to engage personally in fundraising and a proven record of accomplishment in this area.  An earned doctorate is preferred but not an absolute requirement for selection.  Arabic language skills are also desirable but not required. 

Leading candidates will possess the qualities of intellectual depth, moral conviction and personal integrity, the capacity to communicate effectively to individuals, small groups and large audiences, and the sensitivity and flexibility to respond cooperatively and effectively to requests from others.  They should have the ability to articulate an institutional vision with passion and clarity, to focus on strategic priorities, and to mobilize support from all university constituencies.  Leading candidates must be fair and compassionate in making decisions and possess an assured, open personal style. They should be active, versatile, energetic, well-organized and appreciative of the special mission, culture and unique history of AUC.  Deep respect for Egypt and its culture is an absolute requirement.  Under the University’s protocol with the government of Egypt, the President must be an American citizen.

Please e-mail nominations or applications (including cover letters, résumés and all contact information) by August 30, 2010 to Jane Phillips Donaldson and Sarah James at AUC@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

For a full position description, click here.

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ARCUS FOUNDATION, New York, NY

Executive Director

The Arcus Foundation (www.arcusfoundation.org) is a leading global philanthropic funder advancing pressing social justice and conservation issues.  Specifically, Arcus works to advance lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality as well as to conserve and protect the great apes.

Reporting to the President/Founder and Board of Trustees, the Executive Director will provide leadership and management of the Foundation’s overall operations and programs.  Working in close partnership with the President, the Executive Director will help to shape and implement his philanthropic vision by guiding the Arcus Foundation’s global grantmaking activities and ensuring a commitment to quality and excellence.  The Executive Director will work closely with the President, Board and program staff to further develop the strategic framework for grantmaking, enhance and expand existing programs, and explore opportunities for developing and implementing new programs or projects.  Leading and coordinating the efforts of a highly committed, professional staff in three offices on two continents, the Executive Director will ensure that the Foundation’s systems and infrastructure support its programmatic efforts and position the Foundation as leader and innovator.  The Executive Director, in partnership with the program directors and program officers, will make policy recommendations to the Board and continue to shape the Foundation’s short-term and long-range goals and strategies.  The Executive Director will be expected to promote the Arcus Foundation widely and proactively to develop productive relationships and partnerships with other organizations, funders and key influencers in support of the Foundation’s mission and goals.  It is critically important that the Executive Director cultivate the trust and confidence of an involved and active President/ Founder and that, in collaboration with the President, Board and staff, ensure that the Foundation fulfills its mission while maintaining an organizational culture that is consistent with the Stryker family’s values which focus on being open-minded, humanistic, pioneering, caring and challenging.

The ideal candidate should have a deep personal commitment to social justice movement building and great enthusiasm for the Arcus Foundation’s mission and programs.  S/he will have the following experience and qualifications:  experience leading and managing an organization or an entity of a scale, function or complexity similar to that of the Arcus Foundation; proven senior-level managerial, problem-solving and strategic planning experience with commensurate fiscal responsibility; demonstrated experience as a thoughtful risk-taker with a record of converting vision into working programs; some knowledge of the strategies of grantmaking and an understanding of philanthropy; a global perspective on social justice issues; international experience and fluency in a language or languages other than English would be a plus; the ability to communicate effectively and openly, both verbally and in writing, with a broad range of individuals and organizations; capable of public leadership and vision as a foundation representative; political savvy; ability to effectively manage and defuse issues of a controversial or sensitive nature; a record as a coalition builder; able to create constructive partnerships with the President, Board, staff and LGBT community in New York City and globally, as well as with other organizations and influencers working within the field; administrative strength in consensus building, teamwork and communication.

Please e-mail nominations or applications (including cover letters, résumés and all contact information) to Becky Klein and Susan Meade at ArcusFoundation@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

For a full position description, click here.

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THE ATLANTIC PHILANTHROPIES, New York, NY

Senior Web Strategist

The Atlantic Philanthropies is dedicated to bringing about lasting change in the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people.  Atlantic awards grants to carefully selected organizations in four programme areas:  Ageing, Children & Youth, Population Health, and Reconciliation & Human Rights. 

The work is concentrated in seven countries:  Australia, Bermuda, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, South Africa, the United States and Viet Nam.  Atlantic seeks to address social problems where it believes that its grantmaking can have an impact in its limited lifetime.

Atlantic’s grantmaking is strategically focused to have an impact on critical social problems through advocacy and services related to older adults, children and youth, people with little or no access to healthcare and people who are being denied basic human rights.  Atlantic’s social justice framework guides its programming in an effort to provide opportunities to make lasting improvements for the most disadvantaged and vulnerable.

To achieve its mission, Atlantic partners with grantees, other funders and governments.  They believe in the power of advocacy by the people who will benefit from the change.  To that end, they support targeted initiatives, ranging from the Treatment Action Campaign, which influenced the government in South Africa to provide antiretroviral medications to poor people with HIV/AIDS, to the coalition that successfully advocated for the passage of health care reform legislation in the United States, to the initiative to increase the number of religiously integrated schools in Northern Ireland.

In addition to tangible campaigns, Atlantic seeks to strengthen the capacity of leaders and institutions in its chosen fields – feeling that it is the best insurance to maintain a vibrant movement for social equality and justice that will endure long after Atlantic makes its last grant.

Atlantic is committed to making immediate improvements in the lives of people who need change the most by spending down its approximately $3 billion endowment by 2020.  In keeping with the “Giving While Living” philosophy of its founder, Charles “Chuck” Feeney, Atlantic believes in supporting as much change as possible as soon as possible.  This limited-lifetime approach gives Atlantic’s work a sense of urgency and motivates it to concentrate its resources on the achievement of carefully chosen strategies.

Given Atlantic’s limited life, the organization is focused on developing detailed models and plans for both its programmes and operations departments, and exit strategies for both programmes and staff.  The “Spend Down Plan” will have ongoing implications throughout Atlantic’s remaining life.

SUMMARY

The Senior Web Strategist will be responsible for overseeing The Atlantic Philanthropies’ global online communications presence.  S/he will work closely with the Communications and Programme teams to devise effective online multimedia communications strategies for the organization and to ensure that such strategies are contributing towards achieving Atlantic’s goals globally.  The position involves the management, production, content development and technical supervision of the soon-to-be launched Atlantic Philanthropies’ web site, as well as the oversight of Atlantic’s presence in and engagement with social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, YouTube, Facebook). 

S/he will identify and manage consultants and vendors as needed, who perform tasks such as information architecture and ongoing web maintenance and technical support.  S/he will be the in-house online communications expert, and as such, serve as an internal consultant to the Communications and Programme teams.  The position also entails generating editorial content (stories, grantee profiles, etc.) for the web site, generating multimedia content, driving traffic to the site, managing and issuing Atlantic’s e-newsletter, growing the newsletter subscription base, and positioning Atlantic effectively through social media working in coordination with Atlantic’s Media Relations Executive.  S/he will develop a global editorial calendar to ensure that web content stays fresh and up-to-date and reflects Atlantic’s global nature.

S/he will also collaborate with Atlantic’s in-house IT department to ensure consistency between Atlantic’s externally-facing online presence and Atlantic’s internal information technology infrastructure.  The role also entails making sure that the web site is an effective vehicle for Atlantic to communicate its work and the work of its grantees as it spends down its endowment, and share lessons learned from the fields and geographies in which it operates.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree required.

• Very good project management and coordination skills in a fast-paced, editorially-driven environment.

• 10 years experience in a communications, marketing, or public relations function or environment – developing and managing online strategies, interactive web sites and social media tools.

• Prior experience working with nonprofits, philanthropic and/or mission-driven organizations.

• Proven ability to manage external consultants and vendors and effectively coordinate their activities.

• Excellent written and verbal skills, including the ability to copy edit; excellent editorial writing ability.

• Knowledge of fundamental web and interactive technologies, including HTML, CSS, and Flash, and familiarity with web image formats and how they’re used (GIF, JPG, PNG); ability to use authoring tools such as Dreamweaver.

• Experience using an open source content management system (CMS) for a sophisticated web site; knowledge of (and experience with) Drupal.

• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Photoshop, for routine image operations such as sizing, basic retouching, and image enhancement.

• Knowledge of video editing software.

• Proficiency in using the latest generation of Microsoft Office suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), and media monitoring programs (Factiva and/or Nexis).

• Experience using a bug tracking/issue resolution system, such as Bugzilla or Sifter.

• Experience using an email/CRM system, such as MailChimp or GetActive.

• Detail-oriented professional.

• Research proficiency.

• In-depth knowledge of current communications technology and media, especially web-based and social media communications; ability to stay at the forefront of Internet technology and best practices.

• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to work cooperatively and strategically with all levels of professional, technical and administrative staff.

• Excellent networking and relationship building skills.

• Experience working in a complex, multi-geographical organisation, and sensitivity to cultural differences.

• Energetic self-starter and creative thinker; hands-on individual.

• Flexibility to work after hours and/or to respond to immediate needs.

The Atlantic Philanthropies is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversifying its workforce and is firmly committed to complying with all federal, state and local equal employment opportunity (“EEO”) laws.  The Atlantic Philanthropies strictly prohibits discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of the individual’s race, creed, colour, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, height and weight, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, partnership status, genetic predisposition or carrier status, military status, arrest record and any other characteristic protected by law.

For more information about The Atlantic Philanthropies, visit their website at http://atlanticphilanthropies.org.

Please send nominations or applications, including all contact information to Susan Gluck Pappajohn and Susan Meade at AP@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

For a full position description, click here.

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DORIS DUKE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION, New York, NY

Program Director- Medical Research Program

The mission of the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation (DDCF) is to improve the quality of people’s lives by supporting the performing arts, environmental conservation, medical research and the prevention of child abuse, and through the preservation of the cultural and environmental legacy of Doris Duke’s properties.  For more information on the DDCF, please visit http://www.ddcf.org/.

The DDCF Medical Research Program’s current mission is to advance the translation of biomedical discoveries into new treatments, preventions and cures for human diseases by strengthening and supporting clinical research.  Since 1998, the Medical Research Program has awarded more than 365 grants, committing approximately $229 million. 

Reporting to the President, the Program Director – Medical Research Program, is responsible for the planning, design, management and evaluation of the Medical Research Program, which provides approximately $12 to $20 million annually to leading researchers and research institutions.

The Program Director currently manages major programs for the foundation that include:  the DDCF Clinical Research Fellowship Program, which provides medical students with one-year clinical research fellowships at 10 medical centers in the U.S. and abroad; the Distinguished Clinical Scientist Program, which awards the largest ($1.5 million) grants to individual clinical researchers in the U.S.; the Clinical Scientist Development Program for junior-level investigators; and the Clinical Interfaces Award Program, which supports teams of investigators. 

The Program Director – Medical Research Program should have the following experience and qualifications:  PhD or MD with significant experience conducting research and/or managing biomedical research programs; general interest in global health; track record of scientific publications and invited presentations; participation as a reviewer on scientific review panels; ability to strategize, conceptualize, plan and critically analyze projects; a track record of demonstrated managerial skills; ability to plan, organize and follow through with budgets, staff and a variety of constituencies; excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate (both internally and externally), inspire others, negotiate compromise and take initiative; demonstrated verbal and written communications and presentation skills; ability to work collaboratively with all levels of professional, technical and support staff.

Please send application, including cover letter and résumé, or nominations to Susan Meade or Sarah James at DDCF@PhillipsOppenheim.com. 

For a full position description, click here.

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HONOLULU ACADEMY OF ARTS, Honolulu, HI

Director

Position description pending.  Please check back. 

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THE JOHN TEMPLETON FOUNDATION, West Conshohocken, PA

Executive Vice President

The mission of the John Templeton Foundation (“JTF”) is to serve as a philanthropic catalyst for discovery in areas engaging life’s biggest questions.  JTF provides grants and programs that challenge religions to realize how much they still need to learn and understand, and to embrace a culture of discovery that absorbs new insights and generates spiritual progress, particularly but not exclusively, through scientific research.  Practically, JTF supports research and discoveries into the multi-dimensionality of big questions in theoretical physics, cosmology, evolutionary biology, cognitive science, the origin and nature of religious beliefs, love, generosity, gratitude, forgiveness, meaning, wisdom, and similar topics at the intersection of religion and the natural and social sciences.  JTF also supports programs in freedom and free enterprise and in identifying and supporting extraordinary cognitive talent in young persons.

The Foundation is committed to rigorous scientific research and related scholarship in its core program areas in the Natural Sciences, Human Sciences, Philosophy and Theology, Character Development, Freedom and Free Enterprise, Gifted Education and World Religions.  The Foundation administers the Templeton Prize which, since its inception in 1972, honors a “living person who has made an exceptional contribution to affirming life’s spiritual dimension, whether through insight, discovery or practical works.” 

The $1.5 billion asset Foundation was established in 1987 by pioneer global investor and philanthropist, Sir John Templeton, founder of the Templeton Mutual Funds.  The motto he created for his Foundation, “How little we know, how eager to learn,” exemplifies his philosophy in the financial markets and his groundbreaking approach to philanthropy. 

Position and Qualifications Summary

The Executive Vice President will report directly to the President and, as the President’s deputy, will play a major role in all aspects of the Foundation’s activities (with the exception of investment management).  The Executive Vice President must have a deep appreciation for pioneer global investor Sir John Templeton’s philanthropic vision.  He/She must share the founder’s dedication to demanding intellectual standards, his excitement about the Big Questions, and his directive to invest in cutting-edge initiatives from which discoveries contribute to opening up new lines of inquiry, as well as a passion for the Foundation’s vision and purpose and its extraordinary potential.  The Executive Vice President’s ability to create and maintain networks of academics and others who resonate with the Foundation’s mission will be a critical component of the Executive Vice President’s core responsibilities.

The Executive Vice President will be responsible for the overall operations of the organization.  With the President and the Board, he/she will significantly contribute to the strategic and creative initiatives to accomplish the Foundation’s core mission.  He/She must be able to manage an organization consisting of exceptional staff who will work with the Executive Vice President to evaluate and generate grant proposals and applications.  The person must insist on the highest possible standards for accountability in regard to the priorities in JTF’s core mission, established funding purposes and Sir John’s philanthropic principles. 

Ideal Experience

The successful candidate:  must have substantial intellectual credentials relevant to Sir John’s core funding categories (especially in the natural sciences and research based on the scientific method); will have experience in academia, with a background in scientific research or within a multifaceted scientific organization where innovative global thinking is essential; even if the individual is not currently engaged in research, the individual will have a track record of prominent intellectual achievement and contribution to the scientific community; have demonstrated experience in a capacity where the mission and values the Foundation represents (creativity, curiosity, entrepreneurship, flexibility, honesty and humility) has played a part; experience planning effectively and acting decisively; is a leader with strong organizational and team-building skills; has the ability to be flexible and to multi-task; able to remain cool under pressure and pay attention to details and timetables; and be able to assess grant opportunities, exercise due diligence, and establish mechanisms to measure outcomes both quantitatively and qualitatively.

The John Templeton Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.

More information about the Foundation can be found on its website (www.templeton.org).

Please send nominations, or applications and cover letters, including all contact information to Susan Meade and Jane Phillips Donaldson at JTF@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

For a full position description, click here.

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THE NATION INSTITUTE, New York, NY

President

The Nation Institute was established in 1966 to extend the reach of progressive ideas and strengthen the independent press.  The range of programs includes:  a bestselling book publishing imprint – Nation Books; an award-winning Investigative Fund, which supports groundbreaking investigative journalism; nationally-televised town hall meetings and debates; the widely-read and syndicated website www.TomDispatch.com; an internship program at The Nation magazine; and Journalism Fellowships that fund up to 25 high-profile reporters every year.  Work produced by The Nation Institute has a regular impact on the most urgent social and political issues of our day, and has often changed the debate.  It has sparked congressional hearings, new legislation, FBI investigations and the resignation of government officials. 

Historically, The Nation Institute shares the mission of The Nation magazine.  They are, however, legally and financially separate domains.  Respectful of such boundaries, each organization works to promote the values and causes they share.  Not least among them is the strengthening of independent journalism.

The Nation Institute (www.nationinstitute.org) has a staff of eight and an annual budget of approximately $1.5 million.

Reporting to the Chair and the Board of Directors, the President will provide vision, leadership and management of the Institute’s overall operations and activities.  The President will work closely with the Board, particularly during his/her first year, to refine areas of programmatic interest and develop fundraising strategies, policies and procedures as needed.

The President should have the following experience and qualifications:  a demonstrated commitment to the values of The Nation Institute and The Nation magazine; a demonstrated track record in raising funds; an organized and strategic approach to fundraising efforts; strong oral and written communications skills, with the ability to address issues in non-polarizing ways; a capacity for public leadership and vision as an Institute representative; experience at successfully managing people, operations and the fiscal affairs of a private, nonprofit or governmental entity, as well as experience working with boards (preferred); solid relationship-building skills; ability to cultivate partnerships with a wide variety of constituents; and demonstrated experience of converting ideas and opportunities into working programs.

Applicants or nominees should submit both a résumé and a one- to two-page cover letter that describes their interest in the Institute presidency and their qualifications for the position. 

Résumé and letter or nominations should be sent to the attention of Susan Gluck Pappajohn and Jane Phillips Donaldson at NationInstitute@PhillipsOppenheim.com by Friday, June 11, 2010. 

The Nation Institute is an affirmative action employer.  Members of minority groups, LGBT persons, the disabled, and women of these and other groups are encouraged to apply.

For a full position description, click here.

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NATIONAL ACADEMY FOUNDATION, New York, NY

Vice President of Institutional Advancement

The National Academy Foundation (NAF - http://naf.org) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preparing high school students for college and professional success using a proven, career-focused educational model.

The Vice President of Institutional Advancement will provide the leadership, management and coordination for all of NAF’s development activities.  Specifically, the individual will be responsible for leading a development effort that secures the current base of support and increases and diversifies philanthropic giving to support the growth and expansion of NAF.  

Reporting directly to the President, the Vice President will be a member of the Senior Leadership Team and will work closely with the Board of Directors to develop strategies to cultivate and create new fundraising initiatives and broaden the awareness of NAF.  As department head, the Vice President will guide and motivate a professional staff of six who work to increase the visibility and impact of NAF and ensure its future funding needs are met.  The Vice President will provide regular and meaningful feedback to the staff.  As a member of the management team, the Vice President will be expected to contribute to the organization’s overall mission and growth.

The ideal candidate will bring a demonstrated record of accomplishment in fundraising and will have:  a commitment to a culture of high expectations and accountability as a strategist who is adept at planning, prioritizing, leading a high-performance team, organizing and following through; an organized and strategic approach to fundraising with a minimum of 10 years of proven experience in this area in an institution or organization that has a reputation for quality and excellence – preferably a national institution; the experience to develop and manage staff and coordinate day-to-day activities and operations; the ability to work with and manage professional consultants; a track record of personally identifying, cultivating and soliciting major individual and institutional donors in support of an institution’s ongoing programmatic activities; a solid understanding and established relationships within the philanthropic world; knowledge of New York City philanthropic opportunities highly desirable; demonstrated experience and skills in working with individual donors, board members and volunteer fundraising leadership; knowledge of Raisers Edge or other donor tracking and record keeping programs a plus; knowledge of educational sector preferred; superior communication skills coupled with the ability to be an active listener; the ability to be persuasive, with exceptional interpersonal skills; the ability to translate ideas into a comprehensive fundraising and development plan; financial management skills including budgeting and forecasting for expense and income; experience/familiarity with public relations, marketing and strategic communications; comfort working with a high degree of autonomy and responsibility; the ability to work effectively with diverse personalities as a “doer”  who is committed to and curious about education reform; strong executive presence, professional and personal confidence, modesty, and maturity; a BA or comparable degree. 

The National Academy Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please send applications (cover letters and résumés) and nominations to the attention of Addie Jones at akjones@optonline.net.

For a full position description, click here.

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THE NATIONAL RELIGIOUS PARTNERSHIP FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, Amherst, MA

Executive Director

The National Religious Partnership for the Environment (http://www.nrpe.org) founded in 1993, is the premier instrument through which major American Judeo-Christian faith organizations are working together to address the challenges of environmental sustainability and justice.

In a broad alliance built on shared biblical principles, moral values and commitment to social justice, each of its four denominational partners – the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the National Council of Churches, the Coalition on the Environment and Jewish Life, and the Evangelical Environmental Network – is enacting its own diverse programs, joining in collaborative initiatives and working with other sectors of society to promote a common vision of environmental stewardship.

The Partnership has helped to awaken a powerful and growing recognition that caring for God’s creation is an essential and nourishing expression of faith.  Major denominations have formally raised the priority of addressing threats to the global environment.  Congregations have implemented programs and projects right where they worship and in their backyards – conserving energy, protecting habitats, and contributing new people and perspectives to local coalitions.  Pastor, priests and rabbis are discovering rich themes for sermons and new resonance in old hymns.  Scholars are undertaking theological and ethical inquiry; faculties are developing curricula.

The Partnership has brought together diverse faith groups to discern and act upon moral imperatives undergirding public policy, most recently for bold action by the government to curb climate change and protect vulnerable populations from global warming.  The Partnership seeks to ask fundamental questions – not simply generate still more programs.  What will it take, at the deepest level, for the human family to become stewards, not despoilers, of creation on Earth?

With the retirement of its founding Executive Director, the addition of diverse new members on the Board, and a strategic plan with fresh mission priorities, the Partnership, seeks a dynamic and creative leader as Executive Director as it moves into a new phase of its mission.  Currently based in Amherst, Massachusetts (but open to relocation), NRPE has a staff of four in Amherst, Massachusetts and Washington DC.  The Partnership raises significant funds from foundations and other major donors.  

BASIC FUNCTION

The Executive Director will be an imaginative and accomplished leader, a skilled convener and facilitator and a unifying presence who can work closely with the four denominational partners to advance the Partnership’s mission, map out its strategic vision, and engage others in the Partnership’s ongoing program.  Building on the philosophy and accomplishments of the founders, the individual will grow the organization and its donor base, communicate the scope, substance and optimism of the Partnership’s social justice/environmental mission, and articulate the group’s potential as a body of faith that speaks to environmental issues and concerns with a common voice.  The Executive Director will engage and mobilize the Partners around critical initiatives and position the organization as both a source of substantial breadth and depth for environmental initiatives and as an instrument of renewal within the broader religious community.

The Executive Director will recognize and support the distinctiveness, values and priorities of the four partners, instilling an increased level of accountability and assisting in shaping, owning and strengthening their commitment to the Partnership’s mission, core values and strategic priorities.  The Executive Director will help each partner group set clear, inspirational and achievable goals within their own organizations and work closely with each group’s staff in refining and successfully executing programs.

The Executive Director will be expected to develop and implement a strategic framework for fundraising, actively raise funds from foundations and other sources as appropriate, and continue to explore new fundraising avenues and opportunities on behalf of the Partnership.  This person will draw on his/her own experience and contacts within the philanthropic community, as well as on the relationships of the Partnership with existing funders to increase financial support for the organization.

PRIORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Executive Director will be expected to:

• Thoroughly understand the National Religious Partnership for the Environment – its history, values, mission, partners, structure and operations, finances, constituencies, and potential;
• Build and steward the trust and confidence of the Board, and maximize their best efforts and talents; develop a strong working partnership with the Board chair; embrace and leverage each Board member’s unique perspective as a representative of a specific community of faith to help the Partnership achieve its overarching goals;
• Assume leadership for the Partnership’s fundraising effort; ensure that a comprehensive fundraising plan is in place; cultivate established and prospective funders alike, further leveraging the contacts of the partners and other stakeholders; take the lead to sustain and grow a funding base that supports current and future programs and initiatives;
• Invite independent faith-based groups addressing “creation care” and justice into the Partnership’s networks and conversations; assure the continued articulation of an organizational vision that provides the context for the Partnership’s work and a platform for cultivating support;
• Maintain a level of communication which imparts trust and transparency; provide oversight to assure accurate reporting of the Partnership’s mission and structure, and the independence of its partners; build relationships, encourage communication between Board members and partner group staffs, and devise vehicles to increase information sharing among the partner staffs and through their websites; 
• Ensure that sound business practices are in place to support the work of the Partnership; keep the Board advised of the Partnership’s activities including programs, operations and grants; provide sufficient and timely financial reports and information for making sound policy and programmatic decisions, and manage the Partnership’s budget, which at present is approximately $2 million;
• Serve as a spokesperson for the Partnership within the broader faith community and with other major stakeholders engaged in environmental activities.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will have a history of successful not-for-profit leadership experience, a deep understanding and commitment to the Judeo-Christian tradition, and a familiarity with environmental and creation care issues as they relate to faith communities.  In addition, he or she will be a leader with the following experience and qualifications:

• Proven senior-level ability to lead and convene a participatory organization or program that brings different communities and religious traditions together for a common purpose; successful at building consensus and creating operational plans to meet strategic goals; proven problem solving and strategic planning capability, with the creative skills to transform vision and new ideas into programs;
• A history and track record of successful fundraising, with special emphasis on foundation giving, especially those that concentrate on the environment; credibility and experience to connect an organization like the Partnership to new resources and opportunities; ability to personally interact with and cultivate donors;
• Possess a working knowledge of environmental concerns; fluency and the ability to comment on current environmental policy issues; familiarity with key decision makers and those with influence and the ability to expand the Partnership’s sphere of impact in Washington and beyond;
• Be a clear and inspiring communicator both verbally and in writing; bring people together and encourage both vision and action from partners, funders and the public around the issue of creation care; and speak with an authenticity to the faith-based partnership;
• Provide a record of success setting priorities for staff and for an organization, with the ability to balance internal management with external presence and relationships.

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

The successful candidate should be an inspiring and dedicated leader.  Additionally, this person should have or be the following: 

• A strong “servanthood” mindset and commitment to the mission and future of the Partnership; with deep personal values related to creation care as it is embodied in the life of the four faith traditions represented in the Partnership;
• Decisive and resourceful, with the organizational wisdom to gain and effectively use the support of the Board, faith communities, funders and staff at all levels; able to balance varying agendas and points of view while maintaining on all fronts a sense of common purpose; able to take concerted and definitive action, reflective and respectful of the various views of the Partners;
• An individual who is straightforward, shares information easily, listens to as well as gives advice, and is comfortable receiving input from many sources; respectful of the opinions and abilities of others; someone who imparts trust, integrity and enthusiasm, and motivates others in a similar vein; 
• Emotionally mature with a sense of humor and the diplomatic skills to work with a group of diverse personalities; decisive and resourceful, with the organizational sensitivity to gain the support and confidence of the Board and staff.

Applications (including cover letters and résumés) and nominations to the attention of Mark Tarnacki are welcomed at NRPE@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

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THE NEW SCHOOL FOR CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS, Cincinnati, OH

Provost

The New School for Creative and Performing Arts (NSCPA), dedicated to providing an environment that enables the development of each student’s artistic and academic potential, will be the first public K-12 school in the United States devoted to the arts.  Students at the NSCPA will come to class in a brand new, state-of-the-art building tailored to fulfill their academic requirements and artistic ambitions.  Its integrated curriculum will focus equally on academic and arts achievement.  The NSCPA will combine two preexisting, nationally-recognized Cincinnati Public Schools – the School for the Creative and Performing Arts (4-12) and Schiel Primary School for the Arts Enrichment (K-3).  Fostering the artistic and academic talents of its students across the arts, humanities and sciences, the School will set a world class standard for excellence.  For more information, please visit http://www.thenewscpa.org.   

The Provost will provide the leadership, vision and overall management for the day-to-day operations and programs of the NSCPA.  This individual will also build an environment to ensure the NSCPA’s continued academic and artistic excellence on a national level.

Reporting to the Assistant Superintendent of Schools, the Provost will have the management, human and intellectual skills to coalesce and coordinate the efforts of a highly committed group of administrative leaders, teachers, artists and parents.  At the same time, this person should inspire and motivate the student body and encourage their chosen artistic and academic pursuits.

The Provost should have the following experience and qualifications:  proven experience in education as a teacher, administrator or educational entrepreneur combined with a background which demonstrates personal interest in and commitment to the arts, or alternatively, an established reputation as an arts administrator with a strong focus on and commitment to education; proven managerial, problem solving and planning capability with an educational institution or nonprofit arts organization; an understanding of and experience in dealing with the difficulties facing inner city schools that serve a large and diverse student population; a belief in the value and importance of the arts and an ability to encourage and support artists and artistic endeavors; proven ability to create constructive partnerships with an accomplished board and with a dedicated and committed faculty and staff; ability to communicate effectively both in writing and verbally, including excellent public speaking skills for formal and extemporaneous presentations; demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with and motivate high school students.

Applications (including cover letters and résumés) and nominations to the attention of Paul Spivey and Susan Gluck are welcomed at NSCPA@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

For a full position description, click here.

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PAUL SMITH'S COLLEGE, Paul Smiths, NY

Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Paul Smith’s College, the College of the Adirondacks, is the only baccalaureate institution within New York State’s six-million-acre Adirondack Park.  Founded in 1937 and located on Lower St. Regis Lake, Paul Smith’s history and location are the foundation for a unique opportunity in experiential learning.

FIRST YEAR PRIORITIES

During the first year, the Vice President will be expected to:

• Assume a proactive, creative leadership role in the identification, cultivation and solicitation of individual donors; create and implement sound fundraising strategies, policies, plans and activities;

• Pursue and broaden corporate, foundation and government support and develop relationships with untapped funders in the Adirondack region and with supporters of the programmatic initiatives and educational philosophy of Paul Smith’s College; 
• Gain the trust and confidence of the President of the college and work with him to establish a strategy to increase and facilitate his fundraising role;

• Work with faculty to identify grant opportunities by program and across disciplines;

• Gain the trust and confidence of the Board of Trustees and work closely with the Development and Trustee Committees, in particular, to begin to develop a strategy to expand the Board and ensure support for the college’s overall institutional advancement;

• Identify the strengths and talents of the current development staff, provide direction, motivation and a sense of open collaboration;

• Work closely with the Director of Alumni Affairs and the Annual Fund and the Board to identify, cultivate and increase support from the alumni base and from individuals with an interest in the school;

• Get to know and become part of the life of the school; know and appreciate its history, culture, traditions, and student body, academic and co-curricular programs; understand the sense of place that exists among the faculty, student body, alumni, and other stakeholders in both the internal and external community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Vice President of Institutional Advancement will have ongoing responsibility to do the following: 

• Provide leadership and direction to the development staff and work with them to maintain an effective, cohesive, well-coordinated and mutually supportive department;

• Create long- and short-range plans for the development office – tied to initiatives in the recently approved Strategic Plan, instituting policies, measurable goals and objectives so that all those involved in fundraising activities can work together productively;

• Oversee all fundraising activities and related record keeping, reporting and data analysis;

• Strengthen the relatively new Planned Giving Program;

• In consultation with the President, faculty, the development staff and the volunteer leadership, support and direct volunteers and Board members recruited to raise funds;

• Institute and maintain fundraising schedules, objectives, databases, gift entry controls, and tracking systems and insure that objectives are met, plans are implemented and timely reports are generated;

• Determine the resources needed to put into place a systematic approach to grants as an important source of revenue for the college;

• Oversee the preparation of development publications, which include newsletters, bulletins, the annual report and other literature to raise awareness of the activities of the college and support fundraising efforts;

• Oversee special events connected to the cultivation, solicitation and appreciation of alumni, donors or potential donors;

• Develop a relationship with the enrollment management staff, academic administrators and faculty to ensure that they understand and are included in fundraising activities as appropriate;

• Travel as necessary to represent the school to major gift constituents to confirm and strengthen the school’s relationships, goodwill and financial base.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE

The ideal candidate will have the following experience and qualifications:

• Proven experience in development, solicitation and securing major gifts from individuals and corporations a top priority;

• An organized and strategic approach to institutional advancement with at least eight years of successful management and development experience in an institution or organization that has a reputation for quality and excellence;

• A record of success in setting priorities and raising money through annual funds, individual major gift support and planned giving;

• Proven ability to manage and lead a staff with a record as a team builder, trainer and motivator;

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with and gain the respect and support of a college president or chief executive officer, staff members, trustees, volunteers, faculty and alumni;

• A track record as an exceptional verbal and written communicator who can author proposals, government and foundation grants, solicitation letters, donor correspondence and material for publication;

• Experience supporting a capital campaign a plus;

• Knowledge of private higher education, either as alum, parent, and especially from prior work experience a plus;

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.

For more information on Paul Smith’s College, please visit www.paulsmiths.edu. 

Applications and nominations should be sent to the attention of Addie Jones and Mark Tarnacki at PSC@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

For a full position description, click here.

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PROSPECT PARK, Brooklyn, NY

President/Administrator

INTRODUCTION

Prospect Park Alliance and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation seek an exceptional individual to succeed the Alliance’s iconic founder, Tupper Thomas, as President/Administrator to lead one of the great public parks in the country and one of New York City’s major private-public cultural institutions.  http://www.prospectpark.org/.

Located at the center of New York City’s most populous borough, Prospect Park is a unique public area, where residents from all economic classes, cultural and religious traditions, and geographic neighborhoods come together for recreation and to experience nature.  Designed by famed park planners, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux (the same team who designed Central Park), Prospect Park contains 250 acres of natural habitat areas, Brooklyn’s only lake, last forest and the country’s first urban Audubon Center.  Prospect Park’s 585 acres of meadows, waterfalls, forest, lakes and athletic facilities comprise a masterwork of urban greenery. 

Founded in 1987, the Prospect Park Alliance is a unique public-private partnership with the city of New York that helps run Prospect Park  by caring for the natural environment, preserving the historic landscape and serving the public by providing facilities and programming.  Decisions made for the Park through this partnership consider three inter-related elements:  people, nature and design. 

Prospect Park has had an incredible rebirth over the past 30 years.  The landmark Carousel was restored, the historic Parade Ground ball fields and all seven playgrounds were renovated, and the Park’s native woodlands and natural areas were painstakingly restored.  Partnerships have been formed with National Audubon to create the Park’s Audubon Center, as well as with Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the New York City Department of Education to create the Brooklyn Academy of Science and the Environment, an innovative high school.  The Park has earned recognition for excellence in park management with an emphasis on community involvement, and national attention has been paid to the Woodlands Management Plan, which has set standards for urban ecological restoration.  Numerous awards for Design and Construction projects, Youth, Education and Volunteer Programs have been received.  Free public programming and community events, such as family programming at Lefferts House, the Halloween Haunted Walk and the Macy’s Fishing Contest, have become notable seasonal milestones and helped to make Prospect Park an essential component of daily life for millions of people.  Visitation in Prospect Park has increased from almost two million to over nine million per year.

The Alliance launched the quiet phase of the Campaign for Lakeside in 2009.  Lakeside is Prospect Park’s ambitious new initiative to renovate 26 acres in the Park’s southeast quadrant – restoring the lake front to the original Olmsted/Vaux design and replacing the aging Wollman Rink with the Lakeside Center, a year-round destination for recreation, fun and fitness within a beautifully restored natural environment.  Designed by architects, Tod Williams and Billie Tsien, and the Alliance’s landscape design team led by Christian Zimmerman, Lakeside will serve many diverse Brooklyn neighborhoods and bring 21st century architecture into a landmark 19th century park.  The project will add a second rink, increase the ice skating season to six months, and add warm weather activities, such as water features and roller skating, making it a year-round destination.  The current rink serves approximately 80,000 skaters each winter and sits idle in the warmer months.  The Lakeside Center business plan projects 230,000 visitors annually after three years, and it is anticipated that the facility will draw an even greater number of visitors into the surrounding picnic area, meadow and nature trails.  This project is in construction and is expected to open in late 2012. 

While hewing to the spirit of Olmsted’s classic vision of the urban park, Prospect Park has found creative ways of adapting to new usage patterns, partnering with user groups as disparate as dog walkers, bicyclists, barbecuers, bird watchers, baseball, softball, cricket, Frisbee and soccer players and Caribbean drummers.  Prospect Park is a truly democratic space that is critical to, and deeply in tune with, the city around it. 

BASIC FUNCTION

The President/Administrator will provide the leadership, vision and strategic direction for the Park, provide oversight and direction of the Alliance’s partnership with the New York City Parks Department and manage Prospect Park’s day-to-day operations and activities.  Reporting to the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation and the Chairman of the Prospect Park Alliance, the President/Administrator will manage a dedicated staff and ensure that the Park is well managed, fiscally and administratively sound, its programs are appropriate and effective, and the public is both served and enthusiastically supportive.

The President/Administrator will have primary responsibility for Park operations, institutional development, initiating and implementing major programmatic and capital improvements when necessary, along with the fundraising strategies required to achieve these goals.  The individual will be expected to heighten the visibility of Prospect Park to encourage broad-based support and represent the Park to its myriad constituencies.  With an eye toward future opportunities, the ideal candidate should embrace the Park’s role as an urban oasis within a diverse community that depends on the Park for recreation, exercise, socializing and relaxation.

PRIORITIES

The President/Administrator’s priorities during the first 12 to 18 months will be to:

• Thoroughly understand Prospect Park – its history, mission, programs, constituencies, structure, finances, fundraising and operations, as well as its role in enhancing the quality of life of Brooklyn residents.
• Reach out to establish collegial relationships and work with Park constituencies and stakeholders, City and State elected officials; reach out to local and regional community leaders, building strong networks to secure and increase support for the Park from its various constituencies.
• Working with the Development Office and the Board, establish contacts with funders, both individual and foundations, through meetings, events and outreach in order to continue to raise money for the capital and expense budgets. 
• Work with the Board to maximize its best efforts and expertise to help the Alliance achieve strategic and fundraising goals; help to identify and recruit new Board members as needed.
• Get to know the staff and understand their strengths and concerns; build upon an existing commitment to collaboration; understand the Parks Department’s priorities, such as the park rating system and understand the funding of the public and private sectors and the personnel issues of both.
• Lead and conclude the ongoing Lakeside campaign; supervise construction of the $70 million Lakeside project, prepare for and execute the opening of the new facility. 
• Establish new concessions agreements with the city of New York based on the new contract between the City and the Alliance.  Further develop the Alliance’s capacity to manage existing concessions operations.
• Together with the Board and staff, initiate a review of the Park’s core mission, strengths and weaknesses, as well as its overall focus and direction in preparation for the next phase of strategic planning. 

ONGOING RESPONSIBILITIES

The President/Administrator will be expected to:

• Direct and oversee day-to-day administration of the Park so that it continues to anticipate and meet the needs of a diverse, dynamic and devoted community.
• In collaboration with the Development team, plan and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that enhances existing means of raising funds from public and private sources, including earned revenue; maintain donor stewardship as a priority.
• Monitor the financial status of the organization, including the budgetary process, financial reporting and analysis, expenses and profitability of concessions and other revenue centers, and levels of funding and cash flow; direct and work closely with the chief financial officer and other staff to maintain the organization’s financial wellbeing and develop strategies for growth.
• Initiate, maintain and enhance relations with other organizations as appropriate.
• Increase awareness and visibility for Prospect Park to secure its support and future; maintain the Park’s position and stature as a model for public/private parks across the country; serve as a persuasive spokesperson with the government and with the Park’s many constituencies; engage new ones.
• Regularly brief the Board, City and the community on the status of the Park and its operation; ensure stakeholders’ participation in strategic planning, advocacy and fundraising.
• Contribute to a team-oriented and integrative approach to management, developing and encouraging cross-programmatic collaboration.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Ideally, the President/Administrator will have the following:

• Leadership and senior management level experience and/or a measurable track record in an organization known for quality; knowledge of public-private partnerships a plus.
• A record of success in working with diverse individuals/agendas to achieve common goals; adept at balancing internal management with external presence.
• Knowledge of City and State government, with the capacity to build productive relationships between Prospect Park and key players in the public sector; especially important is an awareness of the impact of changes in the political landscape on the Park’s funding and opportunities. 
• A successful track record in raising money with a demonstrated ability to attract financial resources from foundations, corporations, individuals and government sources, with the essential ability to personally interact with and cultivate donors.
• Familiarity with capital campaigns a plus, preferably in a leadership role.
• Experience working in partnership with a board; with government and with outside partners.
• Ability to command respect from the urban parks community on a local, regional and national level.
• Familiarity with financial, legal and human resources practices.
• A history of communicating effectively, verbally and in writing, including excellent public speaking skills for formal and extemporaneous presentations, and the ability to represent the Park to a broad public.

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

The President/Administrator should have or be:

• A wholehearted champion for the Park.
• Politically astute.
• A manager; a seasoned professional who is organized, strategic, financially aware and holds self and others accountable; able to remain focused on the big picture without forgetting the importance of detail, setting priorities and delegating to dedicated team members.
• Enthusiastic about Brooklyn, its unique character and how the Park reflects it.
• Someone who is creative, flexible, yet decisive; capable of creating and sustaining a vision for the Park; an individual of personal integrity and credibility who shares information readily, listens as well as counsels, and respects the abilities of others.
• Adept at creating and maintaining relationships that are critical to the success of the Park; able to develop and maintain on all fronts a sense of common purpose.
• The constitution and talent for navigating bureaucracies when necessary.
• Emotionally mature and self-confident, with a sense of humor and the ability to maintain balance and perspective.

Applications and nominations should be sent to the attention of Sarah James and Mark Tarnacki at PPA@PhillipsOppenheim.com 

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SCO FAMILY OF SERVICES, Glen Cove, NY

Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer

SCO Family of Services works with New York’s most vulnerable – those striving to overcome the devastating impact of poverty, neglect, abuse, or developmental and mental challenges.  SCO responds to moments of crisis and prevents crises before they occur with a comprehensive array of services for children and families. 

For more than 100 years, SCO has played a vital role for the people of New York City and Long Island.  With a budget of approximately $200 million and a staff of 3,100 and 122 locations, SCO gives individuals and families the support and tools needed for a healthy, stable and successful future, building stronger communities throughout the area.  Effective, vital services include family support, education, special needs, foster care and homeless services. 

The Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of SCO Family of Services will provide the overall leadership, management and vision for the agency and its programs and delivery of services.  In addition to overseeing day-to-day operations and activities, the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer will assume the critical role of serving as an external presence and spokesperson – expanding current funding from public and private sources, developing new and more diverse sources of revenue, representing the organization’s mission, purpose and values, and raising its visibility.

Working closely with the Board of Directors and reporting to the Chair of the Board, the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer will ensure that SCO is fiscally and administratively sound and that the organizational structure, technology, program development and implementation, and fundraising efforts are well managed and balanced.  The individual will provide the strategy and direction to ensure that SCO’s programs and services continue to attain the highest level of quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness, while responding to the needs of a diverse array of clients.  The Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer will engender the trust and confidence of the Board, staff and other constituents so that the organization including its policies, programs and services are enhanced and supported.

It is of primary importance that the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer provides the commitment, credibility and passion for SCO’s mission and the continuity for its programs and services.  The Executive Director will inspire and motivate staff, clients, Board members, volunteers and donors, and build on the established relationships that have flourished with city and state decision makers and funders in order to serve New York’s most vulnerable populations.

The Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer should thoroughly embrace and represent SCO’s mission, values, purpose and culture and have the following experience and qualifications:

• Proven leadership, managerial, problem-solving and strategic planning capability and commensurate fiscal acumen as an executive with a nonprofit organization, government agency or, possibly, the business community; if the individual is from the government or business community, he/she will have demonstrated commitment to and/or prior experience in the fields of child welfare, youth services, education, healthcare, human services and the like;
• Credibility with and knowledge of relevant New York City and State funding agencies, their policies, leaders and trends; relationships with key stakeholders in many of the areas critical to SCO’s programs and services;
• A record of success in having managed a large and complex organization with multifaceted programs and locations;
• Credibility as a hands-on manager of integrated financial, administrative and management information systems, with a thorough understanding of how technology can be used to further an organization’s well-being;
• Proven skills to be a dynamic fundraiser and marketer, with the ability to secure financial support from diverse sources – major donors, foundations, corporations and government, particularly in a climate of increasing constraints and shrinking resources;
• The ability to interact professionally with dedicated board and staff members who have diverse professional skills and perspectives; the skill to establish and implement organizational strategy and manage through growth and change, while building strong teams and consensus;
• A demonstrated commitment to New York’s most vulnerable populations;
• A demonstrated ability to partner with and engage staff, trustees, donors, volunteers and other stakeholders;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including formal and extemporaneous presentations to a broad public;
• An understanding of and appreciation for the importance of diversity at all levels of staff;
• An advanced degree in social work, public administration, business, mental health, or other relevant field is preferred.

Please send application, including cover letter and résumé, or nominations to Becky Klein and Debra Oppenheim at SCO@PhillipsOppenheim.com.

For a full position description, click here.

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U.S.-MEXICO FOUNDATION, New York, NY

Chief Executive Officer

The mission of the U.S.-Mexico Foundation (USMF) is to expand opportunity for the people of Mexico through effective philanthropy and bi-national partnerships.  It aims to be an effective bridge for greater bi-national understanding and cooperation, contributing to improved quality of life and social equity in Mexico. 

USMF is a U.S.-based 501c(3) grantmaking organization funding philanthropic projects and programs in Mexico.  It supports civil society organizations in Mexico involved in a broad range of activities and does not operate programs itself.  As the only U.S.-based foundation, USMF facilitates foundations, corporate philanthropies and social investments to find innovative and meaningful partnerships for high social impact in Mexico.  With an emphasis on building partnerships to strengthen giving to Mexico, USMF seeks to bring multiple parties from the U.S. and Mexico together, including business, NGOs and academics in addition to new and seasoned corporate donors, individuals, and private foundations from the U.S. and Mexico to identify best practices and promising solutions for Mexico’s people.  The Foundation’s goal is to bring vital resources to strengthen education, healthcare, economic development, housing, local infrastructure and other critical social institutions. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

LEADERSHIP:  Lead from a strategic and externally focused perspective, while keeping a finger on the pulse internally of day-to-day operations, programs, services and activities; serve as a highly visible spokesperson and advocate for USMF; provide bi-national leadership in an effort to raise the Foundation’s profile and attract additional resources; serve as principal public relations spokesperson to the community and USMF stakeholders in donor development, investment and grantmaking programs; inspire multiple constituencies and forge enduring partnerships and strategic alliances; develop, maintain and support a strong Board of Directors.

DEVELOPMENT AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS:  Develop and manage a sustainable comprehensive fundraising program; cultivate and secure funding from diverse sources; build a vibrant Founder’s Circle Campaign to ensure generous and consistent support of the Foundation; support the Board in its fundraising activities; develop a portfolio of donations from U.S. businesses and other donors for grants to Mexico via bi-national partnerships with matching funds from Mexican foundations and/or corporations; secure counterparts and partners in Mexico consistent with the principle of co-responsibility; ensure effective communications with the organization’s donors and members; manage media relations;  Ensure that USMF is marketed to broad and diverse groups; deepen and refine all aspects of communications – from web presence to external relations with the goal of building the brand; strategically position and distinguish the organization from others working in the field.

GENERAL MANAGEMENT, ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE:  Ensure that the day-to-day operations and programs are professionally and efficiently administered, holding the organization to the highest levels of accountability and consistency; manage the recruitment, employment and supervision of all staff and volunteers; conduct annual performance reviews of staff; provide and/or facilitate professional staff development; completely manage and supervise the financial status of USMF, including the budgetary process, expenses, levels of funding and cash flow; manage the development of USMF’s operating budget and investment policies, and supervise the control of the accounting system, investment reporting and recordkeeping; ensure that USMF is in compliance with all government reporting requirements; develop, maintain and oversee systems, processes, data, records and general operations to implement a smooth and effective organizational structure; oversee  the daily operation and maintenance of USMF offices in the U.S. and Mexico.

PROGRAM:  Provide insight and vision to ensure programmatic growth and excellence; provide rigorous program and outcome evaluation; oversee grantmaking and program-related investment programs.

BOARD RELATIONS:  Serve as ex-officio of each Board committee; seek and build Board involvement with strategic direction; ensure timely and comprehensive flow of information between Board, committees and staff; with appropriate department heads, prepare and present detailed management, program and financial reports, as needed, for Board information and governance.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE

The Chief Executive Officer should thoroughly embrace and represent USM's mission and vision and have the following experience and qualifications:

Strong managerial and problem-solving capability, and commensurate fiscal acumen as an executive with a nonprofit organization, NGO, government agency or business; experience in strategic planning, program development and execution, and evaluation; solid board experience; an exemplary reputation with stature and credibility among community leaders, government officials, and relevant stakeholders and colleagues in both the U.S. and Mexico; proven experience as a dynamic fundraiser and marketer, with the ability to secure financial support from diverse sources – major donors, foundations and corporations – particularly in a climate of increasing constraints and shrinking resources; knowledge of the bi-national corporate sector; grantmaking, program design and evaluation; English and Spanish speaker with bicultural experience; excellent oral and written communication skills; experience in social innovation and impact investment funds.

For additional information on U.S.-Mexico Foundation, please visit www.usmexicofound.org.

Please send applications or nominations to Susan Meade and Paul Spivey at:

USMF@PhillipsOppenheim.com

Phillips Oppenheim

521 Fifth Avenue, 29th Floor

New York, NY  10175

For a full position description, click here.

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