A Message from Janet Haas: Executive Director Position Description Now Posted

Administrative Services
Human Resources

A Message from Janet Haas: Executive Director Position Description Now Posted

Posted: Monday, December 12, 2016
Source: William Penn Foundation

The William Penn Foundation seeks an exceptional leader to serve as the Executive Director of this $2.3B foundation which was founded by members of the Haas Family over 70 years ago.  The Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Greater Philadelphia region.  With its roots firmly planted in Philadelphia and committed to the region, the mission of the William Penn Foundation is to help improve education for low-income children, ensure a sustainable environment, foster creative communities that enhance civic life, and advance philanthropy.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will provide strategic and managerial leadership of the William Penn Foundation and ensure that the Foundation’s strategic direction is consistent with its mission, values and priorities.  Working collaboratively with the Haas Family, board and staff members, the Executive Director will provide the intellectual, organizational and civic leadership to realize the vision of the Foundation. The Executive Director oversees Foundation operations, finance, administration, communications, human resources and compliance with investment objectives and policies.  S/he will oversee and manage a staff of approximately 38 employees and is directly responsible for the Program Directors (3), Director of Evaluation, Chief Investment Officer, Director of Finance and Administration and the Director of Communications.  The Executive Director will also develop and support the next generation of family leadership.

The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing an annual grant budget of approximately $110 million.  Total budget responsibilities include a $9.5 million operating budget and a $2.3 billion endowment.  The Foundation makes approximately 250 new grants annually; working closely with the Program Directors, the Executive Director ensures the grants are managed according to Foundation guidelines and principles. Additionally, the Executive Director interacts frequently with the Board of Directors, both formally and on an informal basis.

A Master’s degree or equivalent is preferred with a background or experience with community philanthropy and nonprofits.  An understanding of the philanthropic process and the dynamics and interplay between government, nonprofit and philanthropic endeavors is required for success.  The ideal individual will have a deep respect and appreciation for the dynamics of a family foundation and the William Penn Foundation mission and work. Candidates must have a demonstrated ability to manage multiple business processes leading to an effectively functioning organization.  Familiarity and passion for the Philadelphia region and the ability to build and sustain collaborative relationships with integrity is required.  Exceptional interpersonal qualities are key to representing the Foundation and to leverage and effect change with and through partners to maximize impact.

The Foundation has retained Diversified Search to assist in this confidential search process.  Please direct all nominations, inquiries, and applications, in confidence to:   WPF@Divsearch.com