The Organization
The Nathan Cummings Foundation is rooted in the Jewish tradition and committed to democratic values and social justice, including fairness, diversity, and community. We seek to build a socially and economically just society that values nature and protects the ecological balance for future generations; promotes humane health care; and fosters arts and culture that enriches communities.
Position Overview
The Nathan Cummings Foundation (NCF or the Foundation), a multigenerational family foundation committed to creating a more just, vibrant, sustainable and democratic society, seeks nominations and applications for the role of Vice President of Programs (VPP).
As philanthropic organizations across the United States and beyond consider their role in society in extraordinary times, the Nathan Cummings Foundation (NCF) has boldly committed to leveraging 100% of its assets – including its grants, voice, investments, and people – toward its mission. To do this effectively, NCF is revisiting traditional structures and practices in philanthropy in support of greater impact and positive changemaking in communities. The new Vice President of Programs will be a critical leader, visionary, and partner to the CEO and the board in the achievement of NCF’s vision of a best-in-class social justice philanthropy that is integrated and intersectional in its approaches and fully aligned in its culture, operations, and systems. S/he/they will work to position NCF internally and externally as a leading force for change in alignment with grantees and other philanthropic partners to effectively respond to national and international challenges with urgency and impact.
Reporting to and partnering closely with the CEO, the VPP will join a senior leadership team alongside the VP of Finance and VP of Human Resources and Administration to realize NCF’s mission and to guide and manage NCF operations, culture, and external partnerships in a way that aligns with the Foundation’s values. The VPP will be a team builder bringing knowledge, skill, strategy, and savvy to the development of a strong programmatic team and the creation of effective systems for ongoing learning and refinement. S/he/they will develop strong relationships with the Board of Trustees and be the key partner to the President in supporting their oversight of program strategy and impact, supporting a culture of accountability, transparency and learning that deepens their engagement and governance. The VPP will also represent NCF externally, collaborating with partners across sectors to extend the Foundation’s impact and influence and actively contributing to the field with leadership and innovation.
The successful candidate will be a seasoned strategist with progressive and exceptional leadership combined with a proven track record of innovative ideas and approaches that support learning and greater effectiveness in the art of grantmaking. An inclusive leadership style, outstanding management skills, and experience building and supporting high-functioning teams are essential. The VPP will be an adaptive, collaborative leader who will develop strategies grounded in principles of social justice philanthropy that are nimble, responsive, and reflective of the integrated and complex nature of social change.
How To Apply
TO APPLY
This search is being conducted by Allison Kupfer Poteet and Erica Nicole Griffin of national executive search firm NPAG. Nominations and applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible. Applications including a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications, your resume (in Word format), and where you learned of the position should be sent to: NCF-VPP@nonprofitprofessionals.com. In order to expedite the internal sorting and reviewing process, please type your name (Last, First) as the only contents in the subject line of your e-mail.
The Nathan Cummings Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that participates in fair-chance hiring practices, and candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. As an organization deeply committed to diversity of experience, NCF values and welcomes candidates from a wide range of personal and professional backgrounds, including community-based organizations, policy organizations, government, national nonprofits or the private sector.