By Janice Simsohn Shaw, Exponent Philanthropy

Foundation executive directors juggles many roles: strategic grantmaker, convener, collaborator, board wrangler, media spokesperson, technical assistance provider, mediator, and the list goes on and on.

With great thanks to the members of our inaugural Master Juggler Executive Institute for their insights, we present seven characteristics of phenomenal foundation executive directors. They’re a tall order indeed and part of a continual learning journey for even the best executives.

Masterful Communicators

“I’m learning that part of being an effective communicator is to deliver authentic messages that often are positioned squarely between the professional and the personal. It can be risky, but it’s also potentially powerful.”

Effective foundation executive directors are clear and confident communicators. They precisely and thoughtfully express ideas; frankly voice their opinions; communicate the why, the purpose, and the vision; and motivate others with their words. They also are skilled listeners and questioners, asking probing questions and guiding conversations to help others articulate their goals and move toward solutions. Exceptional executive directors also are adept at being quiet, at knowing when not to speak.

Great People-People

“Both introverts and extroverts can flourish in this capacity by focusing on and staying true to their relationship-building style.”

Phenomenal foundation executive directors have strong people skills and emotional intelligence. With a deep understanding of the humanness of this work, they are able to bring out the best in others. They are skilled at relationship-building and comfortable engaging with others.

Network Weavers

“I started an e-newsletter to let our outside community know what we are doing and our board to feel more engaged and part of our mission.”

Whether formal collaborators or thought partners to peers, the strongest executive directors deepen the work of their foundations through relationships. They routinely think about the web of connections they are uniquely positioned to weave and engage partners who can push one another and move a field forward.

Change Managers

“When our founder passed, we were forced to make many decisions— with a mourning board president. I had to tiptoe around the way things were always done and guide our board to tough financial, governance, and leadership decisions. It was incredibly stressful but extremely rewarding to see great results.”

Whether faced with shifting giving priorities, plans to sunset, succession, or a new board chair, outstanding executive directors are steady guides on the ever-changing philanthropic landscape. Friction may result when executive directors recognize a need for change before others, but, with a healthy balance of humility and guts, they take risks and gently drive change.

Big-Picture Thinkers Who Can Get Down to Brass Tacks

The most effective foundation executive directors are mission focused yet able to translate the big-picture vision into tactical action. They are doers with strong time- and project-management skills.

Self-Aware Leaders

Effective foundation executive directors know their strengths and weaknesses. They notice the power dynamics at play in philanthropy and recognize their role in that dance. They are clear about their vision and sensitive to others. They accept themselves for who they are, are humble, and genuinely desire feedback. They also know how to draw on others’ resources and talents to fill gaps in their knowledge.

Knowledgeable—and Continual Learners

Phenomenal foundation executive directors are knowledgeable about their field and the workings of philanthropy. Curious, they are committed to learning. They look beyond the daily grind to discover opportunities. They actively scan the field, see trends, and find inspiration or new possible approaches.

Related resources

Download the tear sheet “The Makings of Phenomenal Foundation Executive Directors“ (Exponent Philanthropy members)

Many thanks to First Affirmative Financial Network, exclusive partner for the 2013–2014 Master Juggler Executive Institute, for its support.

Senior Program Director Janice Simsohn Shaw is our networking maven, always happy to connect members and others for learning and growth. Over her near-decade at the organization, she has played a number of roles. She now oversees the Master Juggler Executive Institute and the Next Gen Fellows Program, as well as other work engaging young people in philanthropy. Janice is a popular facilitator at conferences, and she loves designing interactive learning experiences.