Chief Executive Officer

The John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation
Chief Executive Officer

The John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation (JLMLF) was conceived by the late Congressman before his passing and launched in 2022 to carry on his and his beloved wife’s passion for purposeful living and civic engagement. The couple spent their lifetimes praying and moving their feet as they fought for justice, fairness and inclusion through peaceful and non-violent means. They realized that the fight for justice was a lifelong struggle and that everyone has a role to play. They believed in the power of collaboration, and they had an unwavering confidence in the power of individuals to reimagine and build a better society.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will manage all JLMLF activities. Despite its recent establishment, the JLMLF’s dedicated mission to support good trouble has already garnered significant support and interest from a wide range of individuals and organizations. While the JLMLF has been legally established as an operating entity and a strategic framework has been developed, JLMLF is essentially a startup. This position will be based in Atlanta, Georgia.

The immediate priority for the new CEO will be to create and implement a strategic plan, based on the strategic framework that has been established. The CEO will develop operating policies and procedures while keeping the Board informed on JLMLF activities and opportunities. The CEO will provide strategic and managerial leadership of JLMLF and ensure that the Foundation’s strategic direction is consistent with its mission, values, and priorities. Working collaboratively with the Board and other constituents, the CEO provides the intellectual, operational, and strategic leadership to realize the vision of JLMLF.

The CEO will be the first permanent employee of the JLMLF and will initially work in conjunction with outsourced vendors that provide financial and accounting services, marketing and communications, technology support, fundraising and development support, and other administrative services. The CEO functions as the chief executive and development officer, working collaboratively with board members to set fundraising goals and strategies and to execute against those goals. Over time, and in conjunction with a strategic plan, the CEO will build the staff necessary to carry out JLMLF daily operations including, financial management, fundraising, programs management, communications, administration, and compliance with investment objectives and policies.

The CEO must be comfortable with the high level of visibility that comes with this role and be mindful that their decisions, actions and priorities must be reflective of the JLMLF mission and values. To be successful in this role, the CEO must have familiarity with Congressman Lewis’s work, his life, and his priorities both inside and outside of Congress. The CEO is expected to work diligently in an environment that demands and promotes personal and professional excellence. 

The starting compensation for this position will range from $150,000 to $225,000 based on experience and ability to have broad impact early. The CEO will be responsible for establishing benefit programs.

The John and Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation has retained Diversified Search to assist in this recruitment. Applications, nominations, and inquiries may be directed electronically, and in confidence, to: JLMLF@divsearch.com. For best consideration, all applications and inquiries should be received by February 17, 2023. The full position description can be found at https://divsearch.egnyte.com/dl/9zcfXhFCGV