Together SC
Executive Director Recruitment Profile
The mission of The Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in Georgetown County by responding to current needs for a better today, and addressing long-term, systemic inequities for a brighter tomorrow. Our work focuses on five priority areas:
Addressing the Root Causes of Poverty
Meeting Basic Human Needs
Promoting Economic Vitality
Preserving the Environment
Encouraging Positive Youth Development
Located in Pawleys Island, SC, the Foundation invests in nonprofit organizations striving to make Georgetown County a better place. We provide support through grantmaking, capacity building, technical assistance, and community-building initiatives, often convening nonprofit leaders to foster collaboration and spark partnerships that expand impact.
The Foundation offers a Conference Center—free of charge to nonprofits serving Georgetown County—and has awarded more than $41 million in grants to nearly 100 organizations since its inception. Beyond grants, we have invested millions in meetings, trainings, and collaborative projects. We also partnered with other funders to create Palmetto Giving Day, which raised over $4 million in 2025 through matching gifts and donations.
With assets exceeding $46 million, the Foundation exclusively funds work in Georgetown County. Our story began with a transformative $35 million gift from Mrs. Frances P. Bunnelle in 2000, setting a new standard for philanthropy in the community. Her vision and generosity continue to inspire and guide our mission today. Learn more at
www.bunnellefoundation.org . Position Overview The Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation seeks an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its next Executive Director, following the retirement of founding Executive Director Geales Sands in May 2025 after 21 years of service." Building on a legacy of philanthropy inspired by Frances P. Bunnelle’s transformative gift, the Executive Director will guide the Foundation’s work to enhance the quality of life in Georgetown County. This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected philanthropic institution and drive lasting impact for the people and communities of Georgetown County. The Executive Director is responsible for promoting the philanthropic goals of the Bunnelle Foundation and serves as catalyst and instrument for philanthropy in the community. The Executive Director upholds the values, mission and goals of the Foundation and plays a key leadership role in the Georgetown community, serving as the most visible representative of the Foundation. In collaboration with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director helps shape the strategic and operational direction of the Foundation, including policy development, staffing, and program execution. The Executive Director works in close partnership with Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, which provides financial, operational, and administrative support. Leadership Competencies The next Executive Director of the Bunnelle Foundation will bring a rare combination of vision, integrity, and deep commitment to Georgetown County. They will be an inspiring leader, a strategic thinker, and a trusted partner to the board, staff, and community. Specifically, the Executive Director will demonstrate strength in the following areas: 1.
Strategic Vision & Adaptive Leadership The Executive Director will align the Foundation’s mission with long-term goals while remaining responsive to emerging opportunities. They will provide visionary leadership that inspires the board, staff, and community, guiding the organization through transition and growth. The Executive Director will sustain innovation and impact beyond traditional grantmaking, leading initiatives in areas such as land preservation, housing, and equity. 2.
Community Engagement & Collaborative Partnerships The Executive Director will have the ability to build trust, visibility, and strong relationships across all parts of Georgetown County. They must actively engage long-time stakeholders and build new partnerships, ensuring that diverse community voices shape strategic decisions across the Foundation’s five priority areas—from poverty alleviation to youth development and environmental stewardship. Strengthening nonprofit infrastructure and partnerships will expand the Foundation’s role as a trusted resource and convener. 3.
Organizational Management & Financial Stewardship The Executive Director must foster a cohesive, high-performing staff team that is aligned with the Foundation’s vision and goals. They will maintain a strong partnership with the board and ensure the effective, strategic use of resources, safeguarding the Foundation’s fiscal health while sustaining staff capacity and alignment during leadership transitions. 4.
Integrity, Local Insight & Inclusive Leadership The next Executive Director will lead with honesty, transparency, and respect, earning the trust and confidence of the board, staff, and community. They will bring a deep understanding of Georgetown County’s needs and opportunities, and champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the Foundation’s work. Personal Qualities The successful candidate will be a thoughtful, committed leader with the following attributes: Integrity and trustworthiness
– leads with honesty, transparency, and ethical judgment Connector mindset
– quickly builds authentic relationships and earns trust Inclusive leadership style
– values diverse perspectives and fosters equity Clear communicator
– inspires through passion for the Foundation’s mission Collaborative approach
– open to feedback, encourages innovation Visionary mindset
– forward-looking, creative, and adaptable Qualifications In addition to the leadership competencies and personal qualities listed, specific qualifications include the following: Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, business, public administration, or related field. At least ten years in the nonprofit, philanthropic, or public sector, with three to five years in a leadership role. Knowledge of Georgetown County’s needs and opportunities (preferred). Proven ability to align strategy and programs with mission and measurable outcomes. Strong relationship-building skills across diverse sectors and communities. Experience working with or reporting to a governing board. Knowledge of nonprofit capacity building, grantmaking, and community-based philanthropy. Expertise in team-building, HR management, and sustaining high staff performance. Financial acumen in budgeting, oversight, and resource stewardship. Strong planning, facilitation, and organizational skills. Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends. Compensation The salary for the Executive Director role is commensurate with experience. As an organization committed to the health and wellness of its team, the Foundation offers a full benefits package, including Paid Time Off, Holidays, Insurance (health, dental, vision, life, long-term disability), 401(k), and training and development opportunities. Contact Information for Interested candidates To express your interest in this position, please send a cover letter that clearly addresses how your experience aligns with the position’s qualifications and leadership competencies, along with a resume, no later than
September 22
to: Search Committee Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation bunnellesearch@gmail.com ONLY RESUMES AND LETTERS OF INTEREST THAT ARE SENT TO THIS EMAIL WILL BE CONSIDERED. The Bunnelle Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.
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www.bunnellefoundation.org . Position Overview The Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation seeks an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its next Executive Director, following the retirement of founding Executive Director Geales Sands in May 2025 after 21 years of service." Building on a legacy of philanthropy inspired by Frances P. Bunnelle’s transformative gift, the Executive Director will guide the Foundation’s work to enhance the quality of life in Georgetown County. This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected philanthropic institution and drive lasting impact for the people and communities of Georgetown County. The Executive Director is responsible for promoting the philanthropic goals of the Bunnelle Foundation and serves as catalyst and instrument for philanthropy in the community. The Executive Director upholds the values, mission and goals of the Foundation and plays a key leadership role in the Georgetown community, serving as the most visible representative of the Foundation. In collaboration with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director helps shape the strategic and operational direction of the Foundation, including policy development, staffing, and program execution. The Executive Director works in close partnership with Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, which provides financial, operational, and administrative support. Leadership Competencies The next Executive Director of the Bunnelle Foundation will bring a rare combination of vision, integrity, and deep commitment to Georgetown County. They will be an inspiring leader, a strategic thinker, and a trusted partner to the board, staff, and community. Specifically, the Executive Director will demonstrate strength in the following areas: 1.
Strategic Vision & Adaptive Leadership The Executive Director will align the Foundation’s mission with long-term goals while remaining responsive to emerging opportunities. They will provide visionary leadership that inspires the board, staff, and community, guiding the organization through transition and growth. The Executive Director will sustain innovation and impact beyond traditional grantmaking, leading initiatives in areas such as land preservation, housing, and equity. 2.
Community Engagement & Collaborative Partnerships The Executive Director will have the ability to build trust, visibility, and strong relationships across all parts of Georgetown County. They must actively engage long-time stakeholders and build new partnerships, ensuring that diverse community voices shape strategic decisions across the Foundation’s five priority areas—from poverty alleviation to youth development and environmental stewardship. Strengthening nonprofit infrastructure and partnerships will expand the Foundation’s role as a trusted resource and convener. 3.
Organizational Management & Financial Stewardship The Executive Director must foster a cohesive, high-performing staff team that is aligned with the Foundation’s vision and goals. They will maintain a strong partnership with the board and ensure the effective, strategic use of resources, safeguarding the Foundation’s fiscal health while sustaining staff capacity and alignment during leadership transitions. 4.
Integrity, Local Insight & Inclusive Leadership The next Executive Director will lead with honesty, transparency, and respect, earning the trust and confidence of the board, staff, and community. They will bring a deep understanding of Georgetown County’s needs and opportunities, and champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the Foundation’s work. Personal Qualities The successful candidate will be a thoughtful, committed leader with the following attributes: Integrity and trustworthiness
– leads with honesty, transparency, and ethical judgment Connector mindset
– quickly builds authentic relationships and earns trust Inclusive leadership style
– values diverse perspectives and fosters equity Clear communicator
– inspires through passion for the Foundation’s mission Collaborative approach
– open to feedback, encourages innovation Visionary mindset
– forward-looking, creative, and adaptable Qualifications In addition to the leadership competencies and personal qualities listed, specific qualifications include the following: Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, business, public administration, or related field. At least ten years in the nonprofit, philanthropic, or public sector, with three to five years in a leadership role. Knowledge of Georgetown County’s needs and opportunities (preferred). Proven ability to align strategy and programs with mission and measurable outcomes. Strong relationship-building skills across diverse sectors and communities. Experience working with or reporting to a governing board. Knowledge of nonprofit capacity building, grantmaking, and community-based philanthropy. Expertise in team-building, HR management, and sustaining high staff performance. Financial acumen in budgeting, oversight, and resource stewardship. Strong planning, facilitation, and organizational skills. Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends. Compensation The salary for the Executive Director role is commensurate with experience. As an organization committed to the health and wellness of its team, the Foundation offers a full benefits package, including Paid Time Off, Holidays, Insurance (health, dental, vision, life, long-term disability), 401(k), and training and development opportunities. Contact Information for Interested candidates To express your interest in this position, please send a cover letter that clearly addresses how your experience aligns with the position’s qualifications and leadership competencies, along with a resume, no later than
September 22
to: Search Committee Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation bunnellesearch@gmail.com ONLY RESUMES AND LETTERS OF INTEREST THAT ARE SENT TO THIS EMAIL WILL BE CONSIDERED. The Bunnelle Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr