I will be leaving my role as Executive Director of the Todd Foundation on April 2 this year (more on this below), so if you are looking for a really great role in New Zealand philanthropy, check out the job ad, or talk to recruitment agent Annabel McCallum from Jackson Stone.  Applications close on Monday January 19 2105.

Why is this such a great role?  First, the work is inspiring, challenging and makes a tangible difference to our communities.  Secondly, the people I work with – trustees, staff, Todd family members, staff from the Todd businesses, grantees and community members are almost without exception fabulous.

So if it is such a great role, why am I leaving?   Good question!  Really it’s just timing – I have been at Todd Foundation almost 10 years.   When I first started, the Foundation was reasonably low profile with one part-time staff member (me) and $1m annually in grants.  Now grants are $5m, I am one of four part-time staff, and, while we don’t actively seek profile, we are well known and well respected.  There is lots of potential for more change and growth, but it feels time to hand over the reins to a new leader.

And what next for me?   I will continue to be active in philanthropy and social enterprise through my governance roles at Philanthropy NZ, the Ngāi Tahu Fund, Thinktank Charitable Trust and Conscious Consumers.   I also plan to do consulting work with a particular interest in building generosity, increasing understanding and harmony between cultures and reducing poverty and inequality.

Wishing everyone a very happy 2015 and please do send this on to anyone you know who might be interested.