Global philanthropy leaders, nonprofit executives, and social impact professionals are being invited to apply for new leadership roles with WINGS (Worldwide Initiatives for Grantmaker Support) as the organisation opens nominations for its 2026 Board of Directors.
The opportunity is designed for individuals who can contribute strategic vision, governance expertise, and global perspectives to help strengthen philanthropy systems worldwide. WINGS is seeking candidates who represent diverse experiences, regions, and approaches to advancing effective philanthropy.
Board Opportunity Aims to Shape the Future of Global Giving
As the philanthropic sector continues to evolve, WINGS is looking for board members who can support innovation, collaboration, and stronger connections among philanthropy organisations around the world.
The organisation is seeking individuals who demonstrate:
- Leadership experience in philanthropy, nonprofit organisations, or related fields.
- Understanding of global philanthropy trends and challenges.
- Commitment to strengthening charitable giving and social impact.
- Ability to contribute strategic ideas and governance support.
- Willingness to represent WINGS within regional and international networks.
The selected directors will help guide WINGS’ mission of building stronger philanthropy ecosystems and supporting organisations working to create positive change.
Who WINGS Is Looking For
WINGS welcomes nominations from experienced professionals who can bring a combination of leadership, credibility, and partnership-building skills.
Ideal candidates may have:
- Experience at executive management level or on boards of directors.
- Strong networks within philanthropy, nonprofit, or development sectors.
- Knowledge of regional and international philanthropic issues.
- Ability to identify opportunities with partners, donors, and members.
- Commitment to WINGS’ values, programmes, and strategic goals.
- Willingness to serve as an ambassador for WINGS in their country or region.
- Fluency in English.
The organisation encourages applications from both current and emerging leaders who are prepared to contribute to the future direction of global philanthropy.
WINGS Encourages Diverse Global Representation
WINGS is committed to building a board that reflects the diversity of its worldwide membership and the communities it serves.
For this election cycle, the organisation particularly encourages nominations from candidates with experience or representation in:
- Africa.
- The Middle East.
- The Asia-Pacific region.
- Community philanthropy.
- Indigenous philanthropy.
- Corporate foundations.
- Family offices.
- High-net-worth individual philanthropy.
Candidates with professional experience in the following areas are also encouraged to apply:
- Fundraising and fund development.
- Blended finance.
- Development finance.
- Impact investing.
This focus aims to ensure that the board reflects different perspectives, regions, and approaches within the global philanthropy sector.
Responsibilities of WINGS Board Members
WINGS directors will play an active role in guiding organisational strategy, supporting leadership, and strengthening the organisation’s global presence.
Key responsibilities include:
- Helping define and review WINGS’ strategic direction.
- Providing strategic advice to support organisational planning.
- Supporting and advising the Executive Director and leadership team.
- Taking collective responsibility for board decisions and governance.
- Supporting fundraising activities and partnership development.
- Promoting WINGS’ mission among donors, partners, and stakeholders.
- Representing WINGS as an organisation rather than individual institutions during official engagements.
- Participating in board committees and meetings.
Board members are expected to attend at least three of the four annual board meetings and participate actively in committee activities.
Flexible Remote Commitment with International Engagement
The board role combines online participation with limited in-person engagement.
The expected commitment includes:
- Three remote board meetings annually.
- Participation in at least one board committee.
- Additional contributions to strategic activities.
- Approximately 15 working days of involvement per year.
- One possible face-to-face board meeting requiring up to five days of travel.
Candidates should have institutional support that allows them to participate fully in board activities. Organisations are generally expected to support travel costs where possible.
Three Board Positions Available
WINGS has announced that up to three director positions are available during this election cycle.
The positions include:
- Three-year terms beginning 1 January 2026.
- Possibility of renewal once.
- Applications open to both WINGS members and eligible non-members.
Individuals representing organisations that qualify for WINGS membership but are not currently members are encouraged to consider joining the network before the start of the board term.
Application Process and Deadline
The WINGS Governance Committee will review nominations and develop a candidate list for consideration by the Board of Directors.
Applicants must submit their nominations through the official Board Application Form.
Important details:
- Number of vacancies: Up to three Board Director positions.
- Term start date: 1 January 2026.
- Application deadline: 31 July 2025 at 23:00 UTC.
Successful candidates will join a global network of philanthropy leaders working to improve collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and impact across the sector.
Opportunity to Influence Global Philanthropy
The WINGS Board of Directors opportunity provides experienced leaders with a platform to help shape the future of philanthropy worldwide.
By bringing together diverse voices, regional expertise, and strategic leadership, WINGS aims to strengthen the systems that support charitable giving and social change.
Professionals committed to advancing philanthropy and building stronger global partnerships are encouraged to submit their nominations for consideration.
