Painter Executive Search has nearly 25 years of experience working in partnership with clients to bring exceptional talent to unique organization needs. It's personal.

Nancy Painter

I have been providing executive recruiting services since 1990, focusing the last decade exclusively in the nonprofit sector.  During that time I have worked on a variety of searches serving the entire sector from Arts & Culture, to Environment, Social Service and Advocacy, Education and Philanthropy.  Serving these diverse client needs has required flexibility, creativity and a good deal of curiosity. 

My work typically supports a board in the process of selecting a new leader, but I also work within organizations that are hiring for key program, development or policy roles.  In the last ten years I have successfully executed over 60 nonprofit searches, including Museum Directors, Chief Development and Communication Officers, Executive Directors, CEO’s, CFO’s, and core program and operational leadership.

The way I approach my work can be characterized as personal.  I believe I can serve you best when I can fully take on your mission and work in partnership with you to find the attributes and skills you need in a leader.  I take seriously the responsibility of representing you –clients and candidates alike.  I strive to represent both clients and candidates in a clear and compelling way and guide them in understanding what success requires in each role.

I am a product of California public schools, growing up on the north coast of California and graduating with honors from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Humanities and a concentration in American Art.  My two children are attending colleges out of state, but I continue to live in Walnut Creek and support the public schools that they attended.  In my personal time I enjoy hiking, museums, cultural events, reading and politics. I have served as a delegate to the California Democratic Party Convention, as the co-chair of the 15th Assembly District and led a substantial grassroots campaign during the 2004 Presidential Election.