When nonprofits face difficult transitions, we help leaders navigate what comes next.
For foundations and nonprofits that are restructuring, downsizing, or planning a closure — and need experienced guidance to do it with integrity — click here
For the nonprofit executive who wants honest, direct guidance — to lead with clarity, support their staff, and navigate the challenging conversations that come with the job — click here
OUR MISSION
At Mission Leading Consulting, we unite veteran nonprofit leaders who possess deep hands-on experience. We have not merely observed these challenges or consulted from afar; we have steered major legacy organizations through them from within.
Jeanne devoted over 25 years to serving as CHRO and COO in nonprofit, higher education, and philanthropic sectors—scaling teams and managing transitions. Most recently, she navigated the strategic closure of Wellspring Philanthropic Fund, managing a complex wind-down of a $500M institution with precision and care. She understands the intricate balance of logistics and leadership required to conclude a mission with honor and strategy.
Jeanne M. Haws, MPA
Maria was the Chief Human Resources Officer for The Atlantic Philanthropies during its historic spend-down, creating the vital workforce strategies that sustained the organization through its final years. Her methodologies for personnel retention and transition are widely regarded as a gold standard in the field. Previously, she established the global HR infrastructure at Human Rights Watch, leading that effort for 16 years.
Maria Pignataro Nielsen, SPHR, SWP
Traci has spent three decades steering nonprofit organizations through every phase of growth and transition. As the former President of The Opportunity Agenda, she oversaw a principled dissolution that ensured the organization’s legacy lived on through strategic knowledge transfers. A frequent contributor to Nonprofit Quarterly, she advocates for intentional closure as a brave act of leadership. Her expertise spans organizational development, philanthropy, and transformative strategic planning.
Traci Lester, MBA, MPA, EdD
Lucille is a veteran communications strategist who has spent twenty years crafting narratives for academic and philanthropic institutions to protect their mission and reputation. A former journalist turned executive advisor, she managed all internal and external messaging during the Wellspring wind-down, ensuring the foundation’s 25-year history was properly honored. She believes clear communication is the vital pulse of any organization, aligning teams and helping the public understand the lasting value of the work.
Lucille Renwick, MPA
We provide the operational wisdom and human-centered strategy needed when organizations reach the critical juncture where difficult choices are unavoidable.
OUR PARTNERS
We consult with boards, executives, and philanthropic funders at the moment of transition—once the decision to restructure, close, or spend down is made and expert guidance is required.
OUR CLIENTS INCLUDE:
- Boards and CEOs navigating planned spend-downs or unexpected funding loss
- Nonprofit executives facing difficult restructuring or closing decisions
- Funders who want to support grantees through responsible wind-down
- CEOs, CHROs, COOs, and CCOs who need a thought partner
