U.S. employers announced 172,017 layoffs during February, up 245% from January and the highest monthly count since July 2020. More than one-third of the total came from the federal workforce reductions. Thousands of nonprofits employees have also lost their jobs due to the the federal government cutting programs and freezing payments.
“We’re seeing a barrage of phone calls and emails from top federal talent inquiring about transitioning to the nonprofit sector,” said Chartise Clark, managing director at Stanton Chase Executive Search in New York City. “The volume was so high the past few weeks that we decided to set up a series of webinars to walk clients through the process and inform them on what they’ll need to zero in on for a successful transition with a nonprofit role that best fits their skill set.”
For senior nonprofit leaders facing job loss, this moment can be an opportunity to pivot into mission-driven areas that are critically in need of experienced leadership, according to Clark. “Sectors like reproductive justice, women’s rights, racial justice, and gender justice have been stretched thin, especially after years of intense policy shifts, public pushback, and the pressures of the pandemic. Many leaders in these movements are burnt out or exiting, creating a real need for fresh, strategic leadership.”
Roles in philanthropy have remained highly sought-after, according to Clark, but there are other overlooked pathways. “Many senior leaders hesitate to consider fundraising, yet it’s one of the most transferable skill sets. Leaders with backgrounds in HR, programs, communications, public affairs, and community engagement often already possess the core abilities that make fundraisers successful — relationship-building, aligning values, and driving shared goals,” said Clark. “Fundraising is not just about external networking; a large part of it involves data analysis, tracking, and strategic information management. Leaders willing to explore new functions may find unexpected career longevity in these roles.”
If all else is equal, the deciding factor is often an authentic connection to the mission. Nonprofit work isn’t just about skill sets—it’s about passion and endurance. Candidates from for-profit backgrounds may lead with their technical expertise, but nonprofit leaders know that deep commitment to the cause can be the key differentiator.
Mission-driven professionals bring something irreplaceable: the ability to weather challenges without losing motivation, according to Clark. Nonprofit roles can be demanding, often stretching teams to do more with less. When organizations hire for heart as well as talent, they’re making an investment in long-term stability and lower turnover, stronger donor and volunteer engagement, and a team that’s willing to go the extra mile for impact.
