Rockefeller Foundation Managing Director, National Partnerships Job: Lead Large-Scale Impact in 2026

The Rockefeller Foundation Managing Director, National Partnerships job offers a high-impact leadership opportunity for experienced professionals looking to shape national systems and scale economic opportunity initiatives. Based in New York (with an option for Washington, DC), this senior-level role focuses on building strategic partnerships, aligning funding, and translating local innovation into national impact.

About the Program

This role is offered by The Rockefeller Foundation, a globally recognized philanthropy committed to advancing human well-being through innovation in areas such as health, food systems, energy, and economic opportunity.

The Managing Director, National Partnerships plays a central role in advancing the Foundation’s U.S. Economic Opportunity and Civic Innovation agenda. Reporting to senior leadership, the role focuses on scaling proven solutions by connecting community-based insights with national platforms, policies, and funding strategies.

The position is highly external-facing and involves working closely with stakeholders across sectors—including philanthropy, government, financial institutions, and employers—to build partnerships that drive long-term, systemic change.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Addressing economic inequality and workforce challenges requires more than isolated interventions—it demands coordinated, large-scale solutions. This role is designed to bridge that gap by ensuring that successful local initiatives are translated into national systems and policies.

By aligning funding streams, influencing institutional practices, and fostering cross-sector collaboration, the Managing Director contributes to building sustainable pathways for economic mobility. The role also positions the successful candidate as a key influencer in shaping national conversations around workforce development and inclusive economic growth.

For professionals seeking to operate at the intersection of policy, finance, and social impact, this opportunity offers a platform to drive meaningful, large-scale change.

What Participants Will Gain

This position provides significant leadership experience at a national level, offering the opportunity to design and implement strategies that scale impact across multiple states and sectors.

The selected candidate will strengthen their expertise in partnership development, managing complex stakeholder ecosystems, and structuring funding strategies that combine philanthropic, public, and private capital.

The role also offers high-level exposure to policy development and institutional change, allowing professionals to influence how economic opportunity initiatives are designed and implemented across the United States.

In addition, working with the Rockefeller Foundation provides access to a global network of leaders, innovators, and institutions, enhancing both professional credibility and long-term career prospects.

Who Can Apply

This role is intended for senior professionals with extensive leadership experience. Applicants are generally expected to have at least 12 years of experience in fields such as philanthropy, government, finance, or economic development.

Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of building and managing multi-stakeholder partnerships, as well as experience in scaling programs or initiatives to achieve broader impact.

A bachelor’s degree is required, while an advanced degree is preferred. Strong strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to navigate complex systems and influence high-level stakeholders.

This position is based in New York City, United States, with an additional location option in Washington, DC. The role follows a hybrid work schedule, requiring in-office presence Monday through Thursday.

Application Process and Deadline

Interested candidates should apply through the official Rockefeller Foundation careers page, ensuring all required materials are submitted before the deadline.

The application deadline is April 29, 2026. Due to the senior nature of this role, applicants are encouraged to submit well-prepared applications highlighting leadership experience, partnership-building, and impact at scale.

Learn more and apply on the official Rockefeller Foundation website to be considered for this leadership role shaping national impact. When applying, highlight your experience scaling initiatives, managing partnerships, and influencing policy or funding systems.

Explore More Opportunities for Youth

Want to discover more fellowships, scholarships, internships, and global programs like this one? Visit Opportunities for Youth to explore more opportunities.