Office of the President (OOP) Fellow

About the role

The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is offering a unique 12- to 24-month leadership fellowship for an emerging leader who wants experience at the intersection of philanthropy, civic leadership, public affairs and executive strategy. The Fellow works directly with the President and CEO and the Office of the President team, supporting high-impact initiatives that advance the Foundation's mission of economic mobility through entrepreneurship, workforce and career development, and college access and completion. The fellowship offers executive mentorship, broad organizational exposure and preparation for future leadership roles in philanthropy, government, nonprofits or the private sector.

Key responsibilities

• Community engagement and external relations: support the President and CEO's engagement with community, civic, business, philanthropic, education and government leaders; cultivate relationships with external stakeholders; conduct stakeholder research and prepare briefing materials; represent the Office of the President at community meetings, convenings and public events.
• CEO and executive office support: act as a strategic thought partner by researching, analysing and recommending; work with Strategic Communications on messaging, speeches and talking points; coordinate across Policy, Strategic Communications and other teams; prepare briefing documents, issue summaries and background materials; follow up on executive meetings and coordinate cross-functional initiatives.
• Special projects: lead and support initiatives identified by the President, coordinate stakeholders, develop project plans and milestones, and turn analysis into actionable recommendations.
• Professional development: receive mentorship from the President and senior leaders, build relationships across sectors, and take part in executive learning sessions and networking.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree required; master's degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
• Three to five years of professional experience in public policy, nonprofit management, government, consulting, communications, philanthropy, business or a related field.
• Passion for civic leadership, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, education or public service.
• Preferred: experience supporting senior executives, engaging community stakeholders or public officials, familiarity with Kansas City's civic, business, nonprofit or philanthropic landscape, and experience preparing executive presentations, speeches or briefing materials.

Required skills

• Exceptional written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong research, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, able to manage multiple priorities.
• Sound judgment, discretion and professionalism with confidential information.

To apply, submit a cover letter and resume. The role is based in Kansas City, MO, and associates must reside in the Kansas City metropolitan area. The posting closes at 5:00 pm CT on November 5, 2026.