Media release

Rhode Island Foundation Board of Directors selects search committee and search firm to identify next President

Current President and CEO Neil Steinberg will retire May 1, 2023, after 15 years

Rhode Island Foundation’s Board of Directors has formed a search committee and selected Spencer Stuart, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, to replace Neil D. Steinberg, who earlier this year announced he will retire May 1, 2023, after 15 years as President and CEO.

The search committee is comprised of seven members of the Foundation's Board:

Jonathan Fain

Ann-Marie Harrington

Meghan Hughes

G. Alan Kurose

Tony Mendez

Theresa Moore

Janet Robinson

“We are delighted to be partnering with Spencer Stuart. We interviewed several firms and found Spencer Stuart’s Education and Social Impact Practice knowledgeable and passionate about the work of the Foundation. Their team is experienced in the community foundation sector and has committed the time, attention, and resources to support our important mission,” said Dr. G. Alan Kurose, Foundation Board Chair. "In addition, we’ve received feedback from various stakeholders - including By Us For Us Rhode Island - and look forward to considering community input as an integral part of the search process.”

Members of the public may offer their feedback to the search committee by completing this survey.

With the support of Spencer Stuart and input from across the community, the search committee will pursue an extensive and inclusive process to attract and build a broad, diverse, and qualified candidate pool. The Board expects to appoint the new President and CEO before Steinberg departs.

During Neil Steinberg’s tenure, the Foundation raised more than $600 million, awarded more than $700 million in grants, grew its endowment threefold to $1.3 billion and increased its commitment to civic leadership and diversity, equity and inclusion.

The job description will be posted on the Foundation website in due course. In the meantime, confidential nominations, statements of interest and questions about the search should be sent to Spencer Stuart at CEOSearch@RIFoundation.org.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Working with generous and visionary donors, the Foundation raised $98 million and awarded $76 million in grants last year. Through leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information, visit rifoundation.org.