SEARCH LEADERSHIP & PARTNERSHIP

ACELA Solutions has been retained to conduct a confidential, retained executive search for the next President and Chief Executive Officer of the Catholic Foundation of Michigan. ACELA is honored to partner with the Foundation’s Board of Directors in identifying and securing a proven executive leader whose faith, strategic vision, and relational leadership align with the Foundation’s mission, values, and long-term growth.

ABOUT CATHOLIC FOUNDATION OF MICHIGAN

The Catholic Foundation of Michigan is an independent, lay-led Catholic community foundation dedicated to strengthening the Catholic mission across the state of Michigan. Established in 2016 by visionary lay leaders and endorsed by the Archdiocese of Detroit, the Foundation has grown into a trusted steward of Catholic philanthropy serving parishes, schools, ministries, and charitable organizations that bring the Gospel to life.

With an active and engaged Board of Directors, the Foundation benefits from strong governance, professional excellence, and a deep commitment to stewardship and accountability. Its work is rooted in Catholic teaching and guided by a mission to inspire charitable giving and assist donors in investing in the future of Catholic institutions and mission-aligned nonprofit organizations.

Now completing its eighth year of service, the Catholic Foundation of Michigan is a relationship-driven 501(c)(3) organization built on trust, integrity, and a growing culture of Catholic philanthropy that serves both Catholic and broader community needs.

THE POSITION

The President and Chief Executive Officer serves as the chief leader and public representative of the Catholic Foundation of Michigan, reporting to and partnering closely with the Board of Directors to advance the Foundation’s mission and long-term vitality.

Rooted in Catholic values, the CEO provides strategic vision, operational leadership, and organizational stewardship to ensure the Foundation’s financial health, donor trust, and sustained impact. As the Foundation’s principal ambassador, the CEO builds and nurtures relationships with donors, Catholic institutions, professional advisors, and community partners, while ensuring donor intent is honored and Catholic identity is upheld.

This role calls for a leader who can guide a growing philanthropic organization with clarity, credibility, and pastoral sensitivity, while cultivating a collaborative, mission-driven organizational culture.

THE OPPORTUNITY

This is a pivotal leadership opportunity to guide a growing Catholic community foundation at an important moment in its development. The next CEO will lead the continued growth of endowed and directed funds, expand philanthropic partnerships, and strengthen the Foundation’s role as a trusted partner to Catholic institutions across Michigan.

Working closely with a highly engaged Board of Directors and Catholic leaders statewide, the CEO will help shape the future of Catholic philanthropy—supporting parishes, schools, ministries, and mission-aligned nonprofit organizations through faithful stewardship, professional excellence, and strategic growth.

The role offers the opportunity to lead at the intersection of faith, generosity, and impact, helping donors live out their faith through giving while strengthening Catholic institutions for generations to come.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The Catholic Foundation of Michigan seeks a senior executive leader who brings a deep commitment to the mission of the Catholic Church and a proven ability to lead complex, mission-driven organizations. The ideal candidate demonstrates:

• A clear understanding of and fidelity to Catholic teachings, values, and ethical standards
• Senior leadership experience in nonprofit, philanthropic, or mission-driven organizations
• A strong track record of growing philanthropic assets, donor relationships, and strategic partnerships
• The ability to work effectively across diverse Catholic constituencies, including dioceses, parishes, schools, ministries, and lay apostolates
• Experience partnering with boards of directors and leading collaborative, values-driven teams
• Exceptional relational, communication, and ambassadorial skills

The successful candidate will be a trusted leader, relationship builder, and steward of mission who can inspire confidence among donors, Church leaders, and community partners alike.

APPLCIATION PROCESS & NEXT STEPS

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Catholic Foundation of Michigan, ACELA Solutions invites qualified, mission-aligned leaders to submit materials for consideration for this President and Chief Executive Officer opportunity.

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following materials for consideration:

• Letter of Interest describing motivation for the role and the leadership strengths the candidate would bring to the Foundation
• Catholic Leadership Philosophy Statement outlining leadership perspective and values as they relate to Catholic mission and service
• Current resume or curriculum vitae, with all relevant positions and dates clearly included
• Five references representing a balance of personal, professional, and mission-aligned perspectives

References will be used as part of a holistic discernment process. No references will be contacted without the candidate’s prior knowledge and explicit permission, and confidentiality will be safeguarded with the utmost care throughout the search.