President and CEO

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Council of Michigan Foundations (CMF) – a nationally recognized philanthropy infrastructure organization – seeks nominations and applications for its next President and CEO.

CMF is a nonpartisan, values‑based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and a premier regional association with a diverse membership that ranges from some of the largest, oldest, and most connected foundations in the country to newly established philanthropies at the cutting edge of the field.

The CEO will advance an innovative vision for CMF, strengthen relationships and programs that serve its members, oversee strategic operations, lead policy and advocacy efforts to protect philanthropic independence, and ensure the organization’s long‑term sustainability and impact for the benefit of future generations.

ABOUT COUNCIL OF MICHIGAN FOUNDATIONS Founded in 1975 as the nation’s second regional association of grantmakers, CMF emerged in the wake of the 1969 tax hearings to help shape state and federal policy affecting philanthropy.

Over time, CMF has grown in mission, service, and membership and today supports a talented, diverse, and highly connected community that includes independent, family, community, corporate, and private foundations, public charities, intermediaries, corporate giving programs, and individual donors connected in purpose to support the well‑being of communities in Michigan and beyond.

CMF’s convenings, peer communities, trainings, tools, services, and advocacy efforts increase the impact of philanthropic activities across Michigan’s rural, urban, and suburban communities and nurture career pathways in the field.

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Build and sustain strong relationships across and among CMF’s diverse membership and sector partners In a period marked by polarization and rapid change, the CEO will be a skilled listener who cultivates authentic, ongoing relationships to understand members’ contexts, challenges, and aspirations as funding, policy, technology, generational dynamics, and strategies evolve.

The CEO will model CMF’s values in practice—advancing equity as a force multiplier for mission, fostering belonging and shared purpose across lines of difference, and building relationships that provide the foundation for transformation.

Chart the next stage vision and value proposition for CMF that is grounded in the powerful legacy of philanthropic community in Michigan, leading nationally in practice and purpose, and responsive to current and future member needs Working closely with the Board of Trustees, staff, and sector partners, the CEO will affirm and advance CMF’s vision, ground programs and practices in shared values, and embrace partnerships and collaborations that strengthen and evolve resources for CMF members.

Lead policy, advocacy, and coalition building for CMF and the field of philanthropy The CEO will stay ahead of current and emerging policy issues impacting the sector and will represent CMF effectively at the state and federal levels by articulating shared priorities, building bridges across diverse constituencies, and advancing a cohesive advocacy agenda.

Lead, develop, and inspire a high performing team A skilled mentor and coach, the CEO will support a talented team, nurture shared leadership, and align people and resources with CMF’s strategic priorities.

The CEO will ensure strong financial stewardship—including budgets, forecasts, and reporting—and maintain clear, consistent communication with the Board on organizational health, opportunities, and challenges.

Advance CMF’s fiscal strength and sustainability The CEO will champion CMF’s work and pursue creative fundraising and earned revenue strategies that support evolving programs, partnerships, and policy efforts, ensuring long‑term organizational resilience and value to members.

Deepen engagement across levels of foundation leadership and with the next generation of Michigan philanthropists Building on existing partnerships, the CEO will lead CMF in engaging an increasingly diverse philanthropic community across function, geography, age, perspective, and identity.

They will adapt engagement and program strategies, integrate new technologies, advance equity‑centered dialogue, and continue elevating youth voice—harnessing the next generation’s energy, innovation, and vision for the future.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS A minimum of ten years of successful senior leadership experience in membership, philanthropy, or nonprofit organizations; an advanced degree in business, nonprofit management, public policy, or a related field is preferred.

Current understanding of the range of structures, strategies, and practices in philanthropy combined with experience driving innovative social sector partnerships and solutions.

Familiarity with the structure and function of membership organizations and a vision for how that structure can be brought to collective impact.

An unwavering commitment to operationalizing equity in both practice and purpose.

Proven success convening and engaging diverse stakeholders in ways that foster inclusivity, build shared language, and advance common‑ground initiatives.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with high emotional intelligence; ability to translate complex ideas for varied audiences and craft compelling narratives that meaningfully engage members and partners.

Demonstrated track record of developing and executing strategic plans, moving effectively from vision to implementation.

Clear understanding of sound board governance, gained through direct experience working with professional boards; maturity and judgment to engage board members’ expertise in shaping strategic direction.

Strong record of building, mentoring, and sustaining high performing teams; collaborative management style grounded in respect, transparency, accountability, and shared leadership; flexibility, humility, and comfort sharing credit and spotlighting others.

Unquestionable values, ethics, integrity, and honesty in all professional dealings; calm, approachable leadership style, ability to embrace feedback, and sound judgment under pressure.

Comfort navigating ambiguity, balancing competing priorities, and leading through uncertainty.

A sense of humor and ability to bring joy to the work.

WORK LOCATION, COMPENSATION & BENEFITS Work Location

With headquarters offices in Detroit, but a distributed and remote team culture, the next CEO will reside in Michigan and will travel frequently to meet with members, staff, and stakeholders across the state.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this full‑time, exempt position is $295,000–$320,000 annually.

CMF is an equal‑opportunity employer and proudly values diversity.

Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr