Executive Director; HRFN

Human Rights Funders Network (HRFN) is an internationally recognized non-profit committed to connecting human rights grantmakers and philanthropists to advance human rights. As a global network of almost 450 institutions that engages over 1,800 individuals, HRFN regularly convenes colleague human rights donors to share insights, strategies, and learnings, as well as mobilize resources for human rights. Looking to strengthen its network, leverage its membership, and plan for continued impact and innovation in human rights philanthropy, HRFN seeks a seasoned leader, strategist, and coalition builder to serve as its next Executive Director (ED).

With an expansive membership base that includes member organizations from all over the globe, HRFN is uniquely and strategically poised towards moving philanthropy towards effectively resourcing human rights work and movements globally. In light of growing threats to human rights, the rise of populism, and recent pushback on philanthropy, HRFN’s mission is more urgent than ever. HRFN’s annual conference, working groups, and research initiatives have served as strategic opportunities for productive dialogue and collaboration around these issues for HRFN’s peer-led network of nearly 450 institutions.

The new Executive Director will lead HRFN in the creation of innovative strategies and program design that empower and equip members to respond effectively to these challenges. Where necessary, the new ED will seek ways to enhance the relevance of these programmatic elements, as well as identify opportunities for new program offerings and initiatives.

HRFN is uniquely positioned to define its role and deepen its impact in the human rights philanthropy space. The new Executive Director will work with staff and Steering Committee to craft and execute an organizational agenda that builds on its strong network and reputation, generates new opportunities for HRFN to drive national and global conversations around human rights, and positions HRFN as a key thought leader in the space.

S/he/they will help to shape a future-facing vision for the organization that aligns with HRFN's mission and theory of change , staff leadership and capacity, and the collective needs of its members. This exciting opportunity calls for an inspirational thought leader and manager with an exceptional combination of qualities, skills, and experiences, including: a sophisticated understanding of human rights movements and international philanthropy;

expertise and experience in creating and implementing innovative strategies, programs, and organizational infrastructure; proven partnership building skills and creative thinking around how to tap into new opportunities; a track record of effective vision-setting and investment-building among diverse stakeholders; and a demonstrated commitment to strengthening a culture of collaboration, equity, and inclusion.

This search is being conducted with assistance from Tamar Datan, Hallie Dietsch, and Yuniya Khan of the national search firm NPAG . For more information and instructions for submitting applications and nominations, please reference the final section of this document.

Human Rights Funders Network (HRFN) is a global network of 1,800 human rights grantmakers and philanthropists in over 70 countries working collaboratively to advance human rights through effective philanthropy. Founded in 1994 by a small group of human rights grantmakers who wanted to build a platform from which to share insights, strategies, and learnings, HRFN has since grown into a vibrant global community of funders who learn from each other, grapple with challenges, and leverage resources for human rights.

HRFN takes great pride in being a peer-led network for human rights grantmakers by human rights grantmakers.

HRFN’s membership has grown significantly in recent years, particularly among funders operating in the Global South and East. With 95 dues-paying member institutions, and more than 350 additional grantmaking institutions engaging in its activities and opportunities, HRFN makes it possible for funders from across the globe to gain full access…