Over the past 25 years, Benefactor Group’s Executive Search service has grown from a bold idea into a trusted partner for mission-driven organizations nationwide. What began with a small team stepping into the unknown has evolved into a nationally respected, strategic service that helps nonprofits navigate leadership transitions with confidence—and emerge stronger on the other side.

Beginning with a Big Mission

In the early 2000s, during the economic uncertainty of the Great Recession, Benefactor Group was just beginning to make waves with a compact team of experts. Our size did not limit us from taking on an ambitious, unprecedented, and vital project. When the YMCA of Columbus faced a staffing crisis, Benefactor Group didn’t just advise—we took action. Each consultant temporarily stepped into multiple leadership roles at multiple local branches, keeping doors open and critical community services running.  

It was a defining moment: a lean team rising to meet a big challenge, driven by a deep commitment to serving those who serve the common good. 

A Proven Executive Search Process

From those humble beginnings, our search and talent offerings have evolved into a cornerstone of our services. Today, Benefactor Group leads dozens of searches annually, with a placement rate that reflects our commitment to quality, alignment, and sustainable leadership. We’ve supported organizations of all sizes and sectors—arts and culture, health and human services, education, philanthropy, and more—through both planned leadership transitions and unexpected vacancies. 

Before joining Benefactor Group, I served as Director of Development at Local Matters, a Columbus-based nonprofit creating healthier communities through food education, food access, food advocacy, and food rescue. In that role, I witnessed the transformative power of strong leadership—how the right person at the helm can deepen impact, build trust, and drive meaningful change. That experience fueled my passion for helping mission-driven organizations find the leaders who will guide them forward. Today, I’m proud to lead Benefactor Group’s Executive Search and Talent team with that same sense of purpose. 

Through years of refinement and experiences, we’ve developed a comprehensive search process designed for impact. Each engagement follows five key phases: Discover, Recruit, Screen, Select & Hire, and Transition & Onboard. This comprehensive, human-centered approach ensures that every search is tailored to the organization’s culture, needs, and goals.