Job Description

Hidden Leafs story: Founded in 1988, Hidden Leaf Foundation was the inspiration of humanitarian, businessman and philanthropist, David (Dave) Brown.

Initially, Hidden Leaf (HL) was managed by the board Dave and his three daughters; in 2002 Tara Brown stepped in as HLs first Director, working half time. The Foundations early grants lent crucial credibility to social change leaders wanting to bring awareness practices (such as centering, meditation, deep listening, yoga, mind-body work, and others) into their workplaces. HLs investment enabled them to experiment, learn, and articulate the impact of these practices, helping to build the field now called Transformative Social Change.

Today, through the efforts of Hidden Leafs many partners and allies, trainers and consultants support hundreds of frontline organizations to make radical changes in their engagement with each other and with allies and adversaries. The results have been transformational, with organizations like National Domestic Workers Alliance, Greenpeace, Rainforest Action Network, and others citing inner practices as a key factor in their impact and wellbeing.

Hidden Leaf has also thrived, increasing its grantmaking from $150,000 in 2002 to $1 million in 2017, with plans to grow to $1.5 million annually in the coming years. After Taras departure as Director, she remains on the board with her sisters, Karie and Kristen. The staff will continue their work under new leadership, committed to honoring Daves legacy and Taras leadership while advancing HLs mission.

The time is ripe to strengthen the Foundation and the field. With transformative practices now established, HL aims to share stories, engage more partners, invest in new tools, and deepen understanding of how social change can foster alliances and solutions. This work will be led by HLs next Executive Director.

Position overview and candidate profile

HL seeks a visionary, strategic, collaborative ED to partner with a committed, loving team. The ED will build upon HLs relationships, deepen its internal and external capacity, and expand grantmaking, partnerships, and advocacy for transformative social change.

The successful candidate will have a personal commitment to inner awareness and experience applying these practices within social change contexts. They will work closely with a progressive family, leading with wisdom, grace, and rigor to increase impact.

Key areas of focus

• Provide institutional leadership aligned with HLs values, guiding strategy, program development, and building relationships with staff, board, grantees, and partners.
• Represent HL externally at conferences and events, developing compelling materials and reports.
• Partner with the board on strategy, including refining board structure and integrating family members.
• Oversee grantmaking programs, ensuring procedures are rigorous yet respectful of grantee relationships.
• Assess and build funding for the field through research, convenings, and strategic alliances.
• Ensure operational excellence, overseeing financial management, systems, and compliance, including budget and investment portfolio management.

Ideal experience, qualifications, and attributes

• Personal commitment to contemplative practice and transformative approaches within progressive movements.
• Deep passion for justice and sensitivity to power and privilege issues.
• At least five years of senior leadership experience, preferably in a social change organization or foundation.
• Strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and an inclusive leadership style.
• Experience with board governance, philanthropy, and field-building is desirable.
• Deep commitment to racial, gender, and social justice, with strong advocacy and communication skills.
• Proficiency with technology, including Excel and Word, and relevant tools.

Location, compensation, and application process

This full-time, exempt position offers a salary in the range of $115,000 to $125,000, plus benefits. The ED will work remotely or from a small office, preferably based in or willing to relocate to the greater Bay Area.

To apply, submit a thoughtful cover letter and current resume to search@hiddenleaf.org by February 1, 2018. Early applications are encouraged. The position remains open until filled, with an aim to onboard by June 2018.

Equal opportunity statement

Hidden Leaf values diversity and encourages applications from women, people of color, bilingual and bicultural individuals, and members of LGBTQ+ communities. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other protected categories. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities. Please specify any needs in your application.

For questions, contact Cory Pohley at corydpm@gmail.com.

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