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How much do foundation executive jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for foundation executive in the United States is $93,552.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Foundation Executives?

Foundation Executives are senior leaders responsible for overseeing the operations, strategy, and financial health of charitable foundations or nonprofit organizations. They typically manage staff, set organizational goals, and ensure that the foundation's mission and objectives are met through effective program delivery and fundraising. Foundation Executives also represent the organization to stakeholders, donors, and the public, building partnerships and promoting the foundation's work. Their leadership is vital to the overall impact and sustainability of the foundation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Foundation Executive, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foundation Executive, you need a strong background in nonprofit management, fundraising, and strategic planning, often supported by a degree in business, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with donor management software, financial reporting tools, and grant management systems is typically required. Exceptional leadership, relationship-building, and communication skills set top candidates apart in engaging stakeholders and leading teams. These skills are essential to secure funding, ensure organizational sustainability, and advance the foundation’s mission effectively.

What are some common challenges faced by Foundation Executives when balancing donor expectations with organizational goals?

Foundation Executives often navigate the delicate balance between fulfilling donor expectations and advancing the foundation’s mission-driven goals. This can involve managing diverse stakeholder interests, prioritizing funding allocations, and maintaining transparency in decision-making. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, strategic planning, and a collaborative approach with both internal teams and external partners. Building long-term relationships and setting clear, realistic expectations with donors is key to sustaining organizational impact and credibility.

What is the difference between Foundation Executive vs Fundraiser?

AspectFoundation ExecutiveFundraiser
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree; advanced degrees or certifications in nonprofit management are commonOften requires a bachelor's degree; certifications like CFRE are advantageous
Work EnvironmentWorks within a foundation's leadership team, overseeing programs and strategyEngages directly with donors, organizing campaigns and events
Employer & Industry UsageFoundations, nonprofit organizations, philanthropic institutionsNonprofits, charitable organizations, educational institutions

Foundation Executives focus on strategic leadership, program development, and managing foundation operations, while Fundraisers primarily concentrate on donor engagement, campaign planning, and fundraising activities. Both roles are essential in the nonprofit sector but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Foundation Executive jobs? Cities with the most Foundation Executive job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Foundation jobs? The most popular types of Foundation jobs are:
What states have the most Foundation Executive jobs? States with the most job openings for Foundation Executive jobs include:
Foundation Executive jobs near you
Infographic showing various Foundation Executive job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,552 per year, or $45 per hour.
IEEE Foundation- Executive Director

IEEE Foundation- Executive Director

IEEE

Piscataway, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description
IEEE Foundation- Executive Director
If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply using the link below:
https://jobs.candidate.kornferry.com/job/Korn-Ferry-Executive-Search-Piscataway-IEEE-Foundation--Executive-Director-New Jersey/279107038
About IEEE & IEEE Foundation
Imagine leading at the intersection of global innovation and social impact. The IEEE Foundation transforms technological advancements into real-world solutions-from disaster-response communications to STEM education for underserved communities. With approximately $100 million in assets and the support of a global network of volunteers, the Foundation is positioned to expand its impact worldwide.
IEEE: Advancing Technology for Humanity
IEEE is the world's largest technical professional organization, advancing technology for the benefit of humanity across more than 190 countries. Through its global community of engineers, researchers, and technologists, IEEE drives progress in AI, computing, sustainability, infrastructure, and other emerging fields. Its standards, publications, and thought leadership influence industries and public policy around the world.
IEEE Foundation: Philanthropy Fueling Innovation
As IEEE's philanthropic partner and a 501(c)(3) public charity, the IEEE Foundation mobilizes resources to advance high-impact initiatives where technology and social good intersect. The Foundation supports programs in STEM education, disaster response, sustainable development, and technology access, connecting donors, partners, and volunteers to create measurable global impact.
Guided by its vision to be the heart of IEEE charitable giving and philanthropy, the Foundation inspires philanthropic engagement through its core values of Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration, and Stewardship.
With more than 290 charitable funds and a growing global platform, the IEEE Foundation serves as a vital bridge between technical expertise and philanthropic investment-turning innovative ideas into lasting solutions that benefit humanity.
Executive Director, IEEE Foundation
Purpose of the Role
The Executive Director provides strategic and operational leadership for the IEEE Foundation, IEEE's philanthropic partner. Reporting jointly to the IEEE Executive Director and Foundation Board, the role advances the Foundation's mission, oversees a $100M+ asset base, leads fundraising growth, manages a team of 12+, and serves as the primary liaison to the Foundation Board, IEEE leadership, donors, and external partners.
Key Priorities
  • Grow and diversify philanthropic revenue beyond current levels.
  • Shift fundraising to a proactive, relationship-driven model focused on major and principal gifts.
  • Strengthen the Foundation's visibility and impact across IEEE and externally.
  • Build strategic partnerships and expand global fundraising capabilities.
  • Engage and activate the Board as fundraising and ambassadorial leaders.
  • Enhance donor stewardship, impact storytelling, and long-term philanthropic growth.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
  • Partner with the Foundation Board to set strategy and priorities.
  • Drive organizational performance, impact measurement, and governance excellence.
  • Align Foundation efforts with IEEE's public-imperative initiatives.

Fundraising & External Relations
  • Lead comprehensive fundraising efforts ($8M-$12M annually).
  • Cultivate major donors, volunteers, and institutional partners.
  • Develop compelling philanthropic opportunities and donor engagement strategies.
  • Serve as the Foundation's primary ambassador and spokesperson.

Operations & Team Leadership
  • Oversee day-to-day Foundation operations and staff management.
  • Foster a high-performing, collaborative, and accountable team culture.
  • Ensure effective execution of programs, agreements, and stakeholder partnerships.

Financial Stewardship
  • Manage budgeting, forecasting, investments, compliance, and risk management.
  • Ensure sound governance and fiduciary oversight.

Ideal Candidate Profile
  • 15+ years of senior leadership experience in nonprofit, association, philanthropy, or mission-driven organizations.
  • Proven fundraising success, including major gifts and strategic development programs.
  • Experience working with Boards, volunteers, and matrixed organizations.
  • Strong financial, operational, governance, and change-management expertise.
  • Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Global mindset with the ability to navigate complex, volunteer-driven environments.

Personal Attributes
  • Strategic, collaborative, and mission-driven leader.
  • Strong executive presence, integrity, and judgment.
  • Skilled influencer who can drive results without direct authority.
  • Adaptable, culturally agile, and relationship-focused.
  • Passionate about leveraging philanthropy and technology for social impact.

Qualifications
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
  • CFRE and/or CAE credentials preferred.
  • Approximately 25% domestic and international travel.

Other Requirements:
As defined in IEEE Policies, individuals currently serving on an IEEE board or committee are not eligible to apply.
PLEASE NOTE: This position is not budgeted for employer-sponsored immigration support, this includes all persons in F (both CPT and OPT), J, H, L, or O status.
For information on work demands and conditions required for this position, please consult the reference document, ADA Requirements. This position is classified under Category II - Mobile Positions.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Disclaimer: This job description is proprietary to IEEE. It outlines the general nature and key features performed by various positions that share the same job classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties and qualifications required of all employees assigned to the job. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or re-assign duties to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodations or other business reasons.

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