Description

Avedis Foundation is a private foundation committed to improving the health, wellness, and quality of life for the people of Pottawatomie County and its surrounding communities. Since our founding in 2012, we’ve invested over $70 million through strategic grantmaking, partnerships, and community-based programs.

As a funder, convener, and innovator, we are now expanding our capacity to drive systemic change by launching strategic initiatives initially focused on quality, affordable childcare. That’s where you come in.

We are seeking a strategic, community-minded leader to serve as Sr. Director, Strategic Initiatives & Impact Investing. This senior role will drive high-impact, innovative solutions to expand childcare, affordable housing, and other key priorities in our area. Reporting to the President/CEO, you’ll lead cross-sector partnerships, identify impact investment opportunities, secure funding, and help shape the Foundation’s long-term strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and implementation of strategic initiatives, initially focused on childcare.
• Develop and execute sustainable funding strategies, including public-private partnerships, mission-related investments (MRIs), and program-related investments (PRIs).
• Identify and secure external funding opportunities at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Collaborate with community stakeholders, including business leaders, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
• Serve as a liaison between Avedis Foundation and the broader community, representing the Foundation at meetings, events, and key conversations.
• Work closely with the CFO and Data Analyst to support budgeting, modeling, and performance tracking for initiatives.

Requirements

What You Bring:

• 10+ years in economic development, philanthropy, business, or related fields OR proven success.
• Experience leading collaborative initiatives, securing public/private funding, and driving change.
• Financial and business acumen.
• Strong communication, relationship, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.

Preferred: 

• Master’s degree or advanced training in a related field.
• Experience with affordable housing or childcare infrastructure and funding models.
• Familiarity with Pottawatomie County or similar regional communities.
• Understanding of program-related investments (PRIs), mission-related investments (MRIs), and foundation funding structures.

Why Join Us?

• Work with a high-trust, mission-driven team in a well-resourced, stable foundation.
• Lead projects that shape the future of Shawnee and surrounding communities.
• Collaborate with an active, supportive Board and long-tenured, committed CEO/staff.
• Enjoy competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and meaningful work with long-term impact.