Elkins Foundation | Executive Director

THE ELKINS FOUNDATION

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION

The Elkins Foundation is dedicated to enriching the quality of life for individuals from all walks of life by strategically supporting educational, healthcare, cultural, community, human services, and religious organizations throughout Houston and the Greater Gulf Coast region. The Elkins family has been actively engaged in philanthropic giving for decades with the Foundation distributing over $15 million in 2024. The Foundation gives to impactful organizations, while maintaining a deliberately low profile and often declining public recognition for its philanthropic contributions.

The Foundation operates with two boards—the Board of Trustees and the Associate Board, which comprises next-generation family members.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Executive Director (ED) reports to the Board of Directors and the Chief Financial Officer of the Family Office and is responsible for the strategic leadership and operational management of the Foundation. This individual will guide the Foundation’s philanthropic initiatives while honoring the vision and legacy of its founders. 

The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional relationship-building skills, strategic thinking, and operational excellence while navigating the unique dynamics of a family foundation. This role requires someone who can effectively bridge multiple generations of family leadership while driving community impact through thoughtful grantmaking. 
 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Board Relations

• Cultivate strong, collaborative relationships with the Board of Trustees, Associate Board Members, and the Houston Trust Company team, who manages the Foundation's assets
• Articulate and implement the Foundation's vision, values, and strategic priorities
• Work with the Board to implement and ensure effective administration of the Foundation’s governance 
• Facilitate effective board meetings, provide timely reports, and support informed decision-making
• Honor the Founders' intent while helping to evolve the Foundation's approach to meet current community needs

Grantmaking & Program Management

• Oversee and refine the grantmaking process, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and impact
• Maintain strong, positive working relationships with current and potential grantees and provide technical assistance to grant-seekers
• Conduct preliminary review of all grant proposals in collaboration with staff 
• Keep Board members informed through comprehensive reports and presentations
• Ensure compliance with all tax and legal requirements related to funding
• Facilitate the distribution of funding in coordination with Houston Trust Company
• Communicate funding decisions to all applicants
• Continuously evaluate and refine the grant application process, website, and systems

External Relations & Communications

• Serve as a representative of the Foundation within the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors
• Foster relationships with grantees, community organizations, and other stakeholders
• Stay informed about emerging needs and opportunities in the Houston area
• Prepare and distribute the Foundation's Annual Report

Organizational Management

• Recruit, develop, and supervise Foundation staff
• Implement efficient systems for information management, grant tracking, and reporting
• Manage office operations, including building security, emergency procedures, and vendor relations
• Oversee any office relocations, renovations, or technology upgrades
• Adapt management approaches to complement the varied communication styles and personalities within the family

QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES

Professional Experience & Education

• Proven leadership experience with a grantmaking foundation, respected nonprofit organization, or relevant private sector role
• Demonstrated success in organizational management and project implementation
• Experience working with a Board of Directors, particularly in a family foundation setting.
• Strong financial and organizational management skills.
• Technical proficiency with standard business software and online grant management systems.
• Bachelor's degree in business or related field required; advanced degree a plus

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Impeccable Integrity: Demonstrates the highest standards of ethical conduct and discretion with confidential information
• Relationship Builder: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively across generations, backgrounds, and organizational levels. Respect for the grant-seeking community and for the importance of its strong partnership with members of the Board
• Attention to Detail & Organizational Excellence: Ability to manage multiple priorities with precision.
• Responsiveness: Understanding of the dynamics of working for a family foundation. Ability to be responsive and accessible to board member requests. Navigates change with flexibility while maintaining consistent core values
• Excellent Communicator: Superior written and verbal communication skills, including an ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders 
• Self-Directed Leader: Proactively identifies opportunities and solutions with minimal supervisio
• Interpersonal & Relationship-Building Skills: Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including family members, grantees, and community partners
• Operational Executor: Ability to maintain technological systems that will allow efficiency of operations for the Board and staff
• Judgment & Diplomacy: Ability to navigate sensitive issues with discretion and tact

HOW TO APPLY

The Elkins Foundation offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience. This is a full-time in-person position based in Houston, with an appreciation for flexibility in schedule. 

Interested candidates should apply here. Letters of interest will be received until April 18, 2025. Applications will be reviewed as they are received so early applicants will get a priority review. We will contact those candidates who most closely match the requirements. We thank you in advance for your interest.