Seeking a new Executive Director

The Kawartha Community Foundation has begun recruitment for a new part-time Executive Director (approximately three or four days per week), marking a significant leadership transition as the organization plans for its next decade of growth and community impact.

This recruitment follows a period of substantial organizational development and reflects the Board of Directors’ commitment to long-term sustainability, strong financial stewardship, and effective leadership.

Over the past three years, the Foundation has experienced considerable growth in capacity, partnerships, granting, and community research. During this time, the organization has evolved from a largely volunteer-led model into a professionally staffed community foundation with expanding reach and responsibility.

As part of this transition, the Board is seeking a senior leader with strong financial and business acumen, including experience in wealth management, charitable finance, and sustainable growth. The successful candidate will be responsible for stewarding the Foundation’s assets, strengthening philanthropic partnerships, and ensuring the organization is well-positioned to support community wellbeing over the long term.

Recruiting has begun for our next Executive Director

Are you passionate about community impact and philanthropy? Do you thrive in a leadership role where you can make a difference? If so, we invite you to join the growing team at the Kawartha Community Foundation (KCF).

Laurie Dillon-Schalk, the Foundation’s current Executive Director, will continue in a senior leadership and advisory role throughout the transition. She will retain and steward critical institutional knowledge, mentor new leadership, and remain actively involved in key initiatives, including the Foundation’s Vital Signs research and community partnerships. Dillon-Schalk remains deeply committed to the Foundation’s mission and will continue to make meaningful contributions to its work.

“Our Foundation believes strongly in long-term succession planning, where leadership transitions are measured in months—not weeks,” said Mark Knoester, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Proactive leadership planning is essential. This recruitment reflects both the strength of the organization today and our responsibility to ensure it continues to thrive for the community well into the future.”