Position Description:

The President serves as the chief executive officer and chief advancement officer of Foundations in Education, responsible for advancing its mission of transforming Catholic education in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees with Board Chair as main point of accountability, the President provides visionary and creative leadership in the nonprofit space, ensuring financial sustainability, programmatic excellence, and mission alignment. The President serves as the organization’s chief strategic leader, ambassador, and principal fundraiser charged with cultivating transformational philanthropic relationships, driving strategic growth, and positioning the organization for expanded impact well beyond the Diocese of Bridgeport, including stewarding potential partnerships or integrations with other entities to strengthen and broaden its mission.

Key Responsibilities

Visionary Leadership & Strategy

• Adheres to the U.S.C.C.B. Charter for Safe Environments Policy for Virtus compliance and adheres to the civil laws and reporting procedures.
• Provide strategic, mission-driven leadership to strengthen and expand the impact of Catholic education in Fairfield County.
• Partner with the Board of Trustees to define strategic priorities and ensure strong governance practices.
• Anticipate emerging trends in philanthropy, education, and non-profit management, adapting strategies with creativity and vision.
• Position the Foundation for long-term growth, including potential mergers or integration with other Catholic philanthropic foundations.

Advancement & Fundraising

• Serves the organization’s chief advancement officer, personally cultivating and soliciting transformational gifts.
• Build and steward relationships with donors, corporations, and foundation at the highest levels.
• Oversee all advancement operations, including leadership gifts, annual fund, events, and marketing.
• Work in close collaboration with the Board to leverage their networks and philanthropic leadership.

Board & Stakeholder Relations

• Report directly to the Board of Trustees, providing timely updates, financial reports, and strategic recommendations.
• Engage with pastors, school leaders, diocesan leadership, and community stakeholders to align efforts and maximize impact. Serve as the spokesperson and ambassador for the Foundation across the Diocese and broader community.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for the Foundation across the Diocese and broader community.

Organizational Management

• Provide executive oversight of all Foundation operations, including advancement, programs, finance, and administration.
• Recruit, develop, and supervise a high-performing staff, fostering a collaborative and mission-centered culture.
• Ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance in all areas of governance and financial stewardship.
• Guide the organization through potential transitions or mergers, managing change with care, clarity, and vision.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.
• At least 10 years of senior leadership experience in nonprofit, educational or philanthropic organizations.
• Demonstrated success as a chief fundraiser with a proven ability to secure transformational philanthropic commitments.
• Experience working closely with boards, donors, and community leaders.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational, and change management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with the creativity to navigate complex opportunities such as foundation mergers and strategic growth.
• Deep commitment to Catholic education and alignment with the mission and values of the Diocese of Bridgeport.
• Understanding of Catholic mission and willingness to work in a faith-based environment; prior experience in nonprofit or Catholic organizations preferred.

Core Competencies

• Faith-Driven Leadership: A personal commitment to Catholic values and a deep appreciation for the transformative role of Catholic Education.
• Visionary & strategic: Ability to see the big picture, anticipate future opportunities, and set a bold course for growth.
• Relationship Builder: Skilled at forging authentic, long-term partnerships with donors, board members, and community leaders.
• Innovative & Entrepreneurial: Creative approach to problem-solving and resource development, especially in changing nonprofit landscape.
• Collaborative Leader: Builds a culture of teamwork, respect, and shared purpose among staff, board, and stakeholders.
• Resilient & Adaptable: Steady under pressure, capable of guiding the organization through transition and change with confidence and grace.
• Transparent & Accountable: Committed to integrity, financial stewardship, and clear communication with all stakeholders.

Compensation

This position offers a competitive executive-level salary commensurate with experience, qualifications, and demonstrated fundraising success. A comprehensive benefits package complements the compensation offering.

Benefits

Foundations in Education offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage; Life Insurance; Accidental & Dismemberment Insurance; Long-Term Disability Insurance; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); and participation in a 403(b) Retirement Plan.