Our Team
Bradley Bewkes
Director of Business Development
Almost 20 years ago I left bucolic Wisconsin for bustling Manhattan to attend FIT. I spent more than a decade managing global businesses in high-tech apparel and consumer products, and dipped my toes in entrepreneurship with my own ventures in real estate and fitness. Yearning to engage in more hands-on volunteer work, I came across Idealist in 2015 and began helping Ami think about new (and awesome) products for the organization. Now, I oversee our iOS mobile app, a social network for good, as well as strategic partnerships to expand Idealist’s mission.
Outside Idealist, I am an elected official in Stamford, CT, where I live, and serve on the legislative body, the Board of Representatives. I’m also a (nice!) landlord of a small building on the Upper East Side, and love getting out of the area for skiing, scuba-diving, and exploring the world.
I really enjoy the intersection of tech & social good and am passionate about providing opportunities for underserved communities to enter the tech industry and grow in their careers. Feel free to reach out anytime at bradley@idealist.org! :)
Patrick Metzger
Director of Product
As the Director of Product, I help shape the vision and strategy across Idealist's digital products. Combining insights from data analytics and user research, I collaborate with our tech team to ensure we're building the best possible user experience for the global community of Idealists.
Before arriving at Idealist, I worked on Planned Parenthood digital products at the national level, focusing on the full-scale redesign of PlannedParenthood.org. I got my start in the digital space at Graphika, a social media analytics startup where I helped transform a highly technical data product into a user-friendly platform for use by clients like Conde Nast.
Outside of Idealist, I write about patterns in music, culture, and the universe. I also play bluegrass banjo and make folk music with my wife, Amie. I grew up in Chattanooga, TN and now call Beacon, NY my home!
Matthew Schwartz
Director, External Relations
Timing is everything. I arrived at idealist as a volunteer and was soon hooked by the meaningful work of the organization. At the same time, I was ready for a change at my long-standing corporate job. The stars were aligned and I made the career and sector change. I now serve Idealist in a multifaceted External Relations role and could not be happier! When not working, I am a passionate activist for animal rights and related campaigns, thrive on traveling, stay fit with indoor cycling, expel adrenaline by attending live sporting events and most importantly, I'm always on the hunt for creatively prepared vegan food, both at plant-based and traditional restaurants.
Learn more about our values and commitment to working with each other and with the community.