Vetted Solutions Tapped by Architects Foundation to Find New Leader
March 11, 2025 – Washington, D.C.- based Vetted Solutions has been retained by Architects Foundation to lead in its search for a new executive director. The foundation seeks a visionary executive director to lead the crucial work in advancing future design leaders through scholarships and early career support for emerging professionals, fostering sustainable and inclusive community design, and preserving and programming the Octagon. This executive will drive innovation and thought leadership to deliver value to the architectural community.
This inspirational leader will serve as the foundation’s chief storyteller and will possess strong experience in developing partnerships and directing successful fundraising efforts. The ideal candidate will lead a highly diverse and talented staff and partner with an ambitious, dedicated and knowledgeable board to create a roadmap for the future of the organization during this critical stage in the foundation’s evolution.
The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, with a master’s degree, CAE, or CRFE preferred. They should have at least 10 years of experience in 501(c)(3) non-profit management, demonstrating expertise in board and staff leadership, resource development, communications, and program development. A proven track record in developing and executing innovative fundraising programs, campaigns, and events is essential. This role requires a leader who thrives in a mission-driven environment, values relationship-building, teamwork, consensus-building, diversity, equity, inclusion, and integrity, and possesses highly effective communication skills across verbal, written, public speaking, and listening. The ideal candidate is personable, resourceful, and results-oriented with the ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.
The Architects Foundation, the philanthropic partner of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), is dedicated to shaping the future of architecture by attracting, inspiring, and investing in diverse generations of architects. Through various scholarships and grants, the foundation supports high school and undergraduate students, Architect Registration Exam (ARE) candidates, and licensed architects pursuing further enrichment. Additionally, the foundation oversees The Octagon, a historic landmark in Washington, D.C., serving as a space to demonstrate the value architects and architecture bring to culture.
Vetted Solutions, a specialist in conducting non-profit, government, and association sector recruiting assignments, focuses on recruiting board members, CEOs and senior staff positions for prominent and well-known organizations nationwide. Recent searches that the firm has conducted include executive director for the Association for Creative Industries, chief operating officer for the American Society of Microbiology, executive director for the Society of Exploration Geophysicists, and executive director of the American Academy of Optometry.
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Jim Zaniello, the firm’s president and founder, has worked for more than two decades in positions ranging from non-profit executive director to publisher of a leading tool for non-profit executive search. He is also known to have an intimate understanding of the complex demands of the executive office through his own experience as executive director at several associations and non-profits.
AESC Search
Vetted Solutions recently assisted in the recruitment of James Edmund Datri as the new president and CEO of the Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants (AESC). An accomplished leader with a track record of transforming and elevating professional organizations, Mr. Datri was selected following a rigorous global search led by a committee of senior AESC members chosen from a cross-section of global and regional member firms around the world. Karen Greenbaum stepped down when her current contract expired, effective December 31, 2024.
“With experience spanning executive roles in trade associations, law, and government, Jim Datri brings a unique blend of vision and expertise to his leadership approach,” said Sophie Wigniolle, AESC vice chair and Paris-based partner with Eric Salmon Partners. “I am confident Jim will bring the association to new heights, building on Karen Greenbaum’s decade of transformative leadership.”
“AESC members play an enormously important role in strengthening leadership worldwide,” said Mr. Datri. “The special skills, relationships, intellect, and expertise AESC members bring to the table in a collaborative process with their clients shape the landscape of regional, national, and global leadership. In a fast-changing world that needs great leaders to build and innovate, to solve the big issues, to foster opportunity, and to move us forward, AESC and its members play a critical and expansive role. I am honored and excited to begin the work of leading AESC to a new chapter of innovation, growth, and impact.”
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Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
