Chief Executive Officer, U.S. Foundation for the Commemoration of the World Wars (DBA "The Doug[...]

About the Organization

The Doughboy Foundation (DBA “The Doughboy Foundation”) is a Washington, DC based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to honoring and preserving the legacy of the 4.7 million Americans who served in World War I. Through dynamic public programming, educational campaigns, digital innovation, and national ceremonies, the Foundation connects past service to present civic values and ensures that the memory of America’s WWI service and sacrifice remains visible, relevant, and resonant for generations to come.

The Foundation was founded in 2013 to support the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission, and played a pivotal role in envisioning, building, and stewarding the nation’s National World War I Memorial in Washington, DC. The Foundation’s mission is to Keep Faith with the American Doughboy. Key activities include public remembrance via Daily Taps at the Memorial, expanding access through augmented reality and mobile apps, organizing signature commemorative events and educational partnerships, and sharing a growing digital archive and monthly Dispatch newsletter with Stories of Service.

Thanks to generous support from individuals and partner organizations, the Doughboy Foundation acts as a steward of the National WWI Memorial and a champion for remembrance of those who served and sacrificed in World War I. The Foundation supports daily Taps at the Memorial and livestreams them to the world via YouTube. The Foundation has assets exceeding $6 million and a base of active institutional and individual supporters, and is entering a period of strategic growth and increased national visibility.

Presently, the National World War I Memorial features the 58.5-foot bronze relief sculpture, A Soldier’s Journey, dedicated in September 2024. The Foundation sponsors ongoing programming and public engagement related to the Memorial.

About the CEO Role

The Doughboy Foundation seeks a visionary, relationship-driven, and mission-aligned Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organization into its next chapter of national growth, cultural relevance, and civic impact. Building on the Foundation’s success in establishing the National World War I Memorial and engaging over a million visitors annually, the CEO will guide strategic direction, deepen fundraising and external partnerships, and ensure excellence across programming, operations, and public engagement.

The CEO serves as the chief strategist, public representative, and operational leader of The Doughboy Foundation. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the incoming leader is responsible for advancing the Foundation’s mission, stewarding financial and human resources, and overseeing programming, fundraising, and institutional partnerships. The CEO will oversee a small but dedicated team of professionals, musicians, collaborators, and volunteers who bring enthusiasm and purpose to their work. The current team includes the following : Executive Director (full-time); Director of Development (full-time); Taps Performer Manager (part-time); Taps Admin Manager (part-time); Facilities Manager (part-time); Administrative Manager (part-time); Marketing Manager (part-time); Technology consultants / contractors.

The new CEO will cultivate a mission-driven, resourceful, high-trust culture anchored in shared respect for history, public service, the arts, and civic memory. The Board of Directors is active and engaged, offering strategic insight, governance, and thought partnership.

Key Responsibilities

Mission & Strategic Leadership

• Guide the strategic direction and long-term vision of the Foundation in partnership with the Board.
• Serve as the public face of the organization, representing the Foundation to government, media, donors, and the general public, together with the Executive Director.
• Ensure programs, events, and initiatives align with the Foundation’s core mission and brand.

Fundraising & External Relations

Organizational & Financial Management

Board Engagement

Program & Content Oversight

Qualifications

The Doughboy Foundation Search Committee recognizes that not every candidate will bring every element of knowledge, skills, and experience listed below, and welcomes candidates with various experiences.

Required

Preferred

Compensation and Incentive Structure

The base salary for this role is $130,000 per year with performance-based potential up to 25% of salary. The Doughboy Foundation offers $12,000 per year in lieu of health insurance (this provision becomes void if / when the organization provides health insurance).

Additional Information

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