President

Posted: 06-Aug-26 | Location: New York, New York | Type: Full Time

About the Foundation

The Wenner-Gren Foundation is a highly respected private operating foundation dedicated to providing leadership in support of anthropology and anthropologists worldwide. With a storied history, Wenner-Gren advances anthropology through convening conversations and publications, as well as through grant and fellowship programs designed to support innovative and ethical research across all branches of the discipline. In a moment of global change—including significant shifts in the funding landscape for the humanities and social sciences—the next President will have a singular opportunity to ensure the Foundation remains a beacon for anthropology as a vital, engaged, and inclusive discipline grounded in rigorous methodology, enhancing humankind's understanding of itself and its place in the world.

About the Role

The President leads the Foundation to advance anthropological knowledge, amplify its impact, foster inclusivity across the discipline, and address threats facing anthropology as a career and field of study. The President serves as a public champion for the discipline and its scholars, and an adept communicator to showcase the critical value of anthropology. The successful candidate will inspire and convene diverse constituent groups while overseeing strategic planning and financial management.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and visionary leadership to advance the Foundation’s mission.
• Oversee grant and fellowship programs supporting innovative and ethical anthropological research.
• Convene conversations, publications, and initiatives that elevate the discipline’s impact.
• Serve as a public advocate for anthropology, engaging with scholars, institutions, and the broader public.
• Foster inclusivity and address challenges facing the field, including career sustainability and funding shifts.
• Manage financial and operational aspects of the Foundation, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Requirements

• Significant leadership experience in higher education, philanthropy, or a related sector.
• Proven ability in strategic planning, financial management, and organizational leadership.
• Strong communication skills to engage diverse audiences and champion anthropology’s value.
• Commitment to fostering inclusivity and advancing ethical research in the discipline.
• Experience convening and inspiring diverse constituent groups, including scholars, funders, and policymakers.

Wenner-Gren has retained Isaacson, Miller, a global executive search firm, to assist in the recruitment of its next President. Applications, nominations, and inquiries should be directed to Isaacson, Miller.