We are at a crossroads. The climate crisis is deepening at an unprecedented rate. There is an attack on democracy with authoritarianism and fundamentalism experiencing a new resurgence globally. In addition, the economic system is experiencing major shocks with inflation, recession, rising inequality, a global pandemic, and a war in Europe.
As the world turns, so does philanthropy. Philanthropy, in some ways, has stepped up to the plate with calls to fund movements and frontline communities, and by moving more and better resources that are aligned with social justice values and principles. Yet, we know so much more is possible if we meet this moment with bold imagination and courageous action. These past few years have also upended philanthropy as new and mega-donors are entering the fray and shifting how resources are being moved, where they are being moved, and the pace and scale at which they are being moved.
In this zeitgeist of crisis, transition, and opportunity, the Engaged Donors for Global Equity (EDGE) Funders Alliance is also at a moment of introspection and reflection. After a few years of experimentation in leadership and programs, the Board is clear that EDGE is more needed than ever in philanthropy. The new Executive Director will have a unique opportunity to reset the organization, lead the EDGE network through these momentous shifts in the world and in philanthropy, and engage with critical questions on EDGE’s role at this time and in the coming years. We are looking for a bold, visionary, and principled builder and leader who can work collectively and is not afraid of taking risks and experimenting while being clear about what EDGE can offer philanthropy and the world during this time. The new leader will be able to guide the organization and its membership through a strategic planning and visioning process so that EDGE can strengthen its role as an anchor within progressive philanthropy across the world in order to best serve social movements that are building just futures for us all.
EDGE Funders Alliance organizes within philanthropy to raise awareness and deepen understanding of the interconnected crises threatening our common future, and to increase resources for systemic alternatives that support justice, equity, and the well-being of the planet. Together we work towards two main goals:
We are a community of 320 members in more than 34 countries, passionately engaged in local, national, and international grantmaking within 98 diverse institutions with differing priorities and strategies, but a shared belief that equity and justice are critical to furthering sustainable, global well-being. Membership is based on support for our mission and values and is open to grantmaking foundations and programs as well as to individual major donors and staff, trustees and advisors with philanthropic and other institutions, whose purpose is to provide funds to promote the public good. EDGE's programmatic offerings focus on curating special initiatives for systemic change, such as thematic dialogues on democracy, racial equity, and agroecology; as well as organizing the progressive funders space through Annual Conferences, Members Retreats, donor education programs, and online spaces for shared political education. Our community funds greater equity and sustainable practice today while exploring and supporting strategies that address systemic challenges and contribute to transformational change over the long term.
This is an exciting opportunity to move the EDGE Funders Alliance into its next phase of organizational growth and maturity. The Executive Director will be responsible for the following:
Talent, values, and leadership matter more to us than ticking all the boxes. If you meet most but not all the criteria on our wishlist but you’re excited about this role, we encourage you to apply.
Strong, Values-Aligned Communication & Relationship-Building Skills
Experience Co-Building Strategic Visions in a Decentralized Leadership Structure
Demonstrated Experience in Philanthropy
Demonstrated Experience in Fundraising
Location: This is a remote role with an expectation of traveling at least once a month, at times internationally. The team and member groups are mostly located across Central European Time and Eastern Standard Time time zones and you will be expected to have some crossover in your working day.
Starting Date: Negotiable, but ideally, June 2023
EDGE is an equal-opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and employees and do not discriminate because of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, personal appearance, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, genetic information, or political affiliation. People from communities that historically experience discrimination on the basis of race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, or identity, as well as people from the Global South, are especially encouraged to apply.
Applications will be accepted until April 23rd, 2023 at 11:59 pm EST. We expect to conduct interviews throughout May.