New Chief Development Officer: First Month, First Thoughts

I've now been here just over a month, so it's probably time for me to share my first thoughts and observations, as well as what I am hoping to achieve in my role as Vice President and Chief Development Officer.

First and foremost, I love the energy of the teams in Salzburg and Washington - it's inspiring! And, it makes me want to work as hard as I can to support Salzburg Global Seminar. A special shout out goes to our amazing interns!

Admittedly, some of our internal systems could be better, but I am totally encouraged and "psyched" by the collaboration I see between the senior management team, the program team and the development team.  I think the Board of Directors are incredibly engaged and I hope I can work closely with each of them to build the Salzburg Global brand.

As I settle into my new job, working with Clare and the program team based in Salzburg, I'd like to help our sessions  extend and grow into more in-depth and multi-year programs. In Washington, as well as in Salzburg, I want to strategically deploy our senior management team and Board of Directors to meet with more of our key donors because in my experience, I have only ever received grants from people I know. So one of my key tasks will be to help Salzburg Global expand our donor networks.

It was really hard to leave my old job with the Eurasia Foundation, but I feel like I have been adopted by a new thoughtful, passionate and caring family at Salzburg Global. I'm really excited for the year ahead, working with our trans-Atlantic team, engaging with donors and meeting you - our Fellows. I look forward to meeting you in Salzburg, Washington and whenever I'm on the road!