Non-profit chief executive and leadership search
Chief executives, executive directors and senior leaders for sustainability non-profits, investor networks and specialist firms. UK, US and Europe.
Request a callWho we place
We find the people who lead mission-driven organisations in sustainable finance and the wider sustainability field, and the senior team around them.
- Chief executives and executive directors
- Programme, policy and research directors
- Fundraising and development leaders
- Heads of membership and partnerships
- Finance and operations directors
- Interim leaders during a transition or a search
Who we work for
Our clients include the organisations that set standards, convene investors and fund change.
- Investor networks and collaborative initiatives
- Sustainability and climate non-profits
- Foundations and charities, including their investment teams
- Standard setters and membership bodies
- Specialist firms, research houses and advisory businesses
What makes these searches different
A board appoints a chief executive, and boards rarely agree on everything at the start. We help the chair and the committee settle what the next leader must do before anyone is approached, so the search does not drift.
The strongest candidates often come from outside the non-profit world, from asset management, consultancy or government. They need a clear account of the organisation’s finances, governance and politics, and an honest one, before they will consider a move.
Many of these roles now depend on raising money in a harder market. We look for leaders who relish the ask rather than tolerate it, and we test for that at interview.
How we run the search
We start with forty-five minutes with the chair or the search committee on what the next leader must achieve and how the board will decide. We then approach people directly, most of whom are not on the market, interview for motivation as much as experience, and send a shortlist within one to two weeks. We keep the committee informed at every stage and handle confidentiality when an incumbent is still in post.
The full process is on our executive search page. Permanent search is what we do. Interim on request.
Roles we have filled
- Executive Director, global investor network, London
- Interim Head, responsible investment network, London
- Interim Head of Stewardship, responsible investment network, London
- Responsible Investment Officer, religious charity, London
Questions we are asked
Can you work with a board search committee?
Yes. Most chief executive searches are run with a committee. We agree the process, the timetable and who decides at the start, and report to the committee throughout.
Can the search stay confidential?
Yes. Many leadership searches begin before a departure is announced. We approach candidates discreetly and agree with you what can be said and when.
Do you only place people from the non-profit sector?
No. Some of the best leaders in this field come from investment, consultancy or policy, and we look across all of them.
Do you work with US organisations?
Yes. We run leadership searches in the US as well as the UK and Europe.
How long does it take?
You will have a shortlist within one to two weeks of the kickoff. A chief executive appointment then usually takes longer than other roles, because of board interviews and notice periods.
How do your fees work?
We agree fees and terms with you before a search starts and will talk you through them on a first call.