Executive Search for Nonprofit Program Executives

National Award-Winning Nonprofit Program Executive Search


Empowering Nonprofits, Foundations & Educational Organizations with Exceptional Program Leadership


Programs are the foundation of every nonprofit’s mission, directly shaping the impact you have on the communities and causes you serve. Hiring the right program leadership isn’t just about filling a position—it’s about securing a transformational leader who will drive measurable change, optimize impact, and expand your organization’s reach.

At Scion Executive Search, we specialize in delivering top-tier nonprofit program leadership talent both nationwide and globally. With dedicated search teams located across the U.S., we have successfully placed executives in all 50 states and have recruited internationally for organizations in locations as remote as Antarctica, Africa, Europe, and South America. Wherever your mission takes you, we have the expertise, network, and industry insight to connect you with highly skilled, mission-aligned programmatic leaders who will help your organization thrive.

Our executive candidates are true agents for change, bringing strategic vision, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to nonprofit impact. We don’t just identify talent—we strategically match candidates based on their expertise, passion, and alignment with your mission, ensuring a seamless leadership transition that drives long-term success.

We know that one exceptional hire can positively shape an organization for years to come. That’s why our team is dedicated to transforming organizational opportunity into reality, delivering leaders who will amplify your mission and advance your impact.

Program Leadership Positions We Recruit:

  • Chief Program Officer (CPO – Nonprofit)
  • Chief Program Officer (CPO – Foundation/Grantmaking)
  • Chief Program Officer (CPO – Education)
  • Vice President of Programs
  • Director of Programs
  • Program Officer
  • Regional Program Director
  • Environmental & Conservation Program Director
  • Youth & Family Services Program Director
  • Housing Program Director
  • Education Program Director
  • Director of Clinical Programs
  • Director of Health Programs
  • Director of Arts & Cultural Programs
  • Director of Programs and Services
  • Philanthropic Program Director
  • Impact, Measurement & Evaluation Director

A Recognized Leader in Nonprofit Executive Search

As experts in nonprofit program executive search, our extensive leadership network is well suited for U.S. organizations seeking to hire top-tier mission-driven talent.

Our award-winning executive search firm has been recognized by:
The Business Times – Top staffing firm for 19 consecutive years
Forbes – Named one of the Best Executive Recruiting Firms in the World & U.S.
ClearlyRated – Best of Staffing recipient, underscoring our commitment to excellence in nonprofit executive search

We’ll Find the Best
Program Leader For the Job 

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Need a Transformative Program Leader?

We’re ready to deliver the exceptional, mission-driven leadership your nonprofit needs.

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Learn more about our approach!

Completed Executive Program Search & Client Examples

  • Mercy Housing

Chief Program Officer

  • Hamilton Families

Director of Housing and Family Services

  • Covenant House

Senior Vice President of Programs

  • Native Arts and Cultures Foundation

Chief Program Officer

  • Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation

Program Officer

  • Local Initiatives Support Corporation

Program Officer

  • Marin Community Foundation

Director of Evaluation and Learning

  • Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation

Arctic Research Fellow

  • 21st Century Community Learning Centers

Program Manager

  • United Negro College Fund

Workforce Development Program Manager

  • Global Support and Development (GSD)

Director of Information and Program Quality

  • NAF

Chief Program Officer

  • Larkin Street Youth Services

Chief Program Officer

  • Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation

Impact, Planning and Analysis Officer

  • Community Gatepath

Director of Children’s Services

  • SEIU 775

Director of Program Development

  • Comprehensive Health Services

Site Program Director

  • International Rescue Committee

Duty of Care Program Executive

  • Aspiranet

Associate Program Director

  • Salvation Army 

Program Director

  • Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching

Director of Program and Network Development

*Please note: the above list is only a sample of current work and not a full list of search engagements.

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