Sr. Director, Strategic Initiatives & Impact Investing

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.

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.

Location:

This position is based in Shawnee, Oklahoma. It is preferred that the candidate live in or be willing to relocate to Shawnee or the surrounding area.

To expedite consideration to join us in building a healthier, more vibrant future for our community, please send your resume to info@avedisfoundation.org.