Job Details

The Ruth Nelson Family Foundation is a private, independent grantmaking organization dedicated to advancing transformative philanthropy in Oklahoma, with a focus on Tulsa County.

Established in 1984 and guided by the legacy of Ruth Nelson, a devoted social activist and philanthropist, the Foundation has supported critical areas of need, including healthcare for underserved populations, women's health, education, the arts, and end-of-life care. With a commitment to equity, humility, and integrity, the Foundation partners with nonprofit organizations to address gaps in services andmake a lasting impact.

As we build our team and infrastructure, we are looking for a strategic and mission-aligned Program Director to guide the development and implementation of the Foundation's programmatic strategy. This is a unique opportunity to shape a philanthropic strategy from the ground up.

Position Summary

The Program Director will be responsible for developing and implementing RNFF's program strategy, managing a growing portfolio of grants, and guiding a small program team toward operational and impact excellence. This individual will serve as a key thought partner to the Executive Director and will play a central role in leveraging the Foundation's resources to catalyze meaningful, systemic change. The Program Director will also have deep knowledge of the Tulsa County philanthropic and nonprofit community.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide the design and evolution of RNFF's programmatic strategies in alignment with the Foundation's mission and values.
• Translate broad vision into clear priorities, frameworks, and funding approaches.
• Monitor trends and opportunities in the Foundation's issue areas to ensure relevance, responsiveness, and innovation.
• Establish and refine internal processes to ensure efficient and effective grantmaking, documentation, and program execution.
• Develop systems for learning, reflection, and data-informed decision-making.
• Set and monitor annual goals and performance indicators for the program team.
• Oversee the lifecycle of all program grants, from sourcing and due diligence to reporting and evaluation.
• Ensure grantee relationships are rooted in trust, transparency, and shared learning.
• Regularly assess portfolio performance, identifying gaps, successes, and opportunities for greater impact.
• Manage and mentor program staff, fostering a supportive, accountable, and high-performing team culture.
• Provide leadership development opportunities and create a space for staff to grow and thrive.
• Support cross-team collaboration with grants administration, communications, and operations.
• Cultivate strong relationships with nonprofit leaders, funder peers, policymakers, and community stakeholders.
• Represent RNFF at conferences, events, and collaborative tables, elevating the Foundation's presence and voice.
• Act as a connector and convener within and beyond the Foundation's priority issue areas.
• Provide strategic insight on the issues facing Tulsa County and how the Foundation can leverage solutions via grantmaking.
• Bring deep knowledge and curiosity about the Foundation's core areas of investment.
• Stay abreast of research, innovations, and best practices relevant to the Foundation's mission.
• Serve as a resource to the Executive Director and Trustees on emerging trends, risks, and opportunities.

Strategic Use of Resources

• Identify high-leverage opportunities to use RNFF's dollars, influence, and partnerships to drive systemic change.
• Recommend and design new initiatives, collaborations, and special projects that extend the Foundation's reach.
• Collaborate with finance and grants management to ensure thoughtful, equitable, and compliant allocation of funds.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years' experience in philanthropy, nonprofit, or public sector leadership position.
• Proven success in developing and implementing strategies, managing community partnerships, and leading high-performing teams.
• Deep knowledge of at Tulsa community issues, opportunities, and philanthropy.
• Strong leadership, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and written communication abilities.
• A collaborative, humble, and equity-driven approach to leadership.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with trust-based or participatory grantmaking models.
• Background in nonprofit program evaluation.
• Understanding of systems-change work.
• Familiarity with private foundation operations, compliance, and governance.
• Knowledge of affordable housing policy & grantmaking

We love working with people who are:

• Self-directed and willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done
• Team players who collaborate with coworkers and community partners
• Creative, curious, and engage in continuous learning
• Passionate about issues of social, economic, and racial justice
• Active listeners
• Positive and have a great sense of humor
• Salary: $150,000-$210,000 annually, commensurate with experience

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest in the role and alignment with RNFF's Application Portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.If you need technical assistance, please reach out ...@ruthnelsonfamilyfoundation.org

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Director

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Business Development and Sales

• Industries

  Non-profit Organizations

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