Executive Director

Organization Overview: NETWORK

Founded in 1971 by a visionary group of Catholic Sisters, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice was born of a collective calling: to bring the values of justice and dignity into the heart of federal policymaking. What began as a small gathering of 47 Sisters has grown into a nationally recognized, Spirit-filled organization whose staff and members include religious and lay people committed to shaping policies that support the common good and honor the sacredness of all people.

NETWORK, a $2.2M organization, is comprised of two entities with a common mission:

• NETWORK Advocates (501(c)(3)) educates and organizes grassroots advocates, equipping people across the country to raise their voices on critical issues.
• NETWORK Lobby (501(c)(4)) engages in direct federal lobbying, advocating directly with lawmakers for policies that advance racial and economic justice.

Together, they form a Spirit-filled movement that bridges moral courage and political strategy.

Well known for its dynamic Nuns on the Bus campaigns, NETWORK has toured the country since 2012 to elevate the voices of marginalized communities and bring national attention to issues like income inequality, voting rights, and immigration reform. Their advocacy helped pass the Affordable Care Act in 2010, and their persistent work on tax justice, worker protections, housing, and immigrant rights continues to influence national debate and shape legislation.

NETWORK is a faith-based, non-canonical Catholic organization that welcomes and affirms people of all backgrounds, genders, and identities. Its commitment to racial justice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and anti-racism is not just aspirational—it is foundational to how the organization operates internally and shows up externally. At the core of its work lies a deep commitment to Gospel values, racial and economic equity, and the belief that policymaking must be rooted in the lived experiences of those most impacted by injustice.

As it approaches a new chapter, NETWORK remains a bold, inclusive, and Spirit-grounded force for justice. In a time of deep polarization and inequality, NETWORK remains a moral compass in Washington and beyond: advocating for systems that reflect the sacred dignity of all people, and the abundant justice envisioned in Catholic Social Teaching.

To learn more, visit networklobby.org

Position Summary

At this critical moment in American history, public policy issues present both challenges and opportunities for NETWORK. While some question the relevance of norms and traditions, NETWORK advocates for government policy and action consistent with Catholic social teaching. NETWORK’s mission addresses this moment. Building on decades of vital leadership and powerful public witness, the organization is committed to advancing its values with spiritual courage, strategic clarity, and visionary leadership. The next Executive Director (ED) will be charged with fostering cohesion and trust within the organization, strengthening vital external relationships, and building upon NETWORK’s legacy as a moral force for justice in public life.

The Executive Director will serve as the public face of NETWORK—representing its mission to policymakers, movement partners, Catholic and interfaith allies, secular groups, donors, and the broader public. This leader must be equally comfortable speaking truth to power on Capitol Hill, connecting with grassroots communities, and cultivating philanthropic relationships with individual donors and foundations. They will play a central role in promoting donor confidence, expanding financial support, increasing membership, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organization.

Reporting to the Board of Directors and leading a dedicated staff of approximately 22 team members, the Executive Director will guide NETWORK through a time of cultural and organizational transition. They will provide both a clear strategic direction and a deeply relational leadership style—one that reflects the values of Catholic Social Teaching, centers equity and inclusion, and resonates with the urgency of the moment. This is a rare opportunity to lead a nationally respected faith-based organization at the intersection of politics, advocacy, and spirituality, and to help shape the future of progressive Catholic leadership in the United States.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership – Develop and articulate a bold, faith-rooted vision that reflects NETWORK’s values and goals; align internal and external stakeholders around shared priorities.
• Staff Culture & Organizational Development – Foster a values-driven, collaborative, and accountable team culture; strengthen internal alignment and invest in staff and leadership development.
• Public Representation & Advocacy – Serve as the public face of NETWORK; represent the organization in media, Catholic, interfaith, and secular coalitions, public forums, and on Capitol Hill.
• Fundraising & Financial Health – Lead and support a strong development strategy; cultivate funders and major donors to ensure long-term financial sustainability.
• Partnership Building – Nurture and expand external relationships with institutions, funders, coalition partners, and advocacy networks, representing Catholics and members of other religions and of secular groups who share NETWORK’s goals, in order to amplify impact.
• Board Relations – Partner with the Boards of Directors to ensure strong governance, transparency, and mission alignment.
• Operational Oversight – Oversee the financial, legal, and administrative infrastructure of the organization; ensure sound policies, systems, and compliance.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will lead with conviction, compassion, and clarity, ensuring that the organization thrives internally while advancing bold impact externally. The following profile reflects the leadership qualities and values essential for this role.

A Visionary, Charismatic Leader

The ideal candidate is a courageous, values-rooted leader who embodies the mission of NETWORK with conviction, compassion, and clarity. Grounded in an authentic and deep personal commitment to Gospel values and Catholic Social Teaching, the Executive Director exhibits moral authority, inspires hope in turbulent times, and speaks boldly across political and religious lines. Whether lay or vowed religious, this leader understands the crucial role NETWORK plays in the broader movement for racial and economic justice and brings the passion, presence, and credibility to lead with vision.

A Strategic Fundraiser and Financial Steward

To ensure NETWORK’s long-term sustainability and impact, the next Executive Director must be a bold, proactive, and relationship-driven fundraiser. They will lead efforts to deepen funder confidence, grow and diversify major donor relationships, and expand the organization’s base of philanthropic support. In tandem with fundraising, the ED will be responsible for strengthening internal systems and infrastructure, ensuring strong financial oversight, operational excellence, and staff well-being. They must be both financially minded and mission-aligned—ready to steward resources with integrity, transparency, and purpose.

A Collaborative and Grounding Presence

Stakeholders are seeking a unifier—someone who can promote trust and foster a team culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and accountable. The next ED will lead with humility and authenticity, prioritizing collective decision-making over control and creating structures that empower rather than dictate. They must be comfortable navigating complexity, conflict, and transition with grace, and committed to non-hierarchical leadership that reflects NETWORK’s values of shared power and spiritual discernment. High emotional intelligence, transparency, and a commitment to racial and LGBTQ+ inclusion are essential.

A Strategic Advocate and Relationship Builder

The ideal candidate must bring a strong understanding of federal policy and experience in the D.C. advocacy ecosystem. They will serve as the public face of NETWORK—testifying before Congress, participating in coalitions, and engaging with the media, donors, and movement leaders. The next leader will build and strengthen relationships with elected officials, Catholic institutions, advocacy allies from other faith traditions, secular organizations, and grassroots networks. The ED must be skilled at navigating both political complexity and institutional dynamics while staying grounded in mission and message.

Qualifications

While it’s understood that no single candidate will bring every single competency, strong candidates will offer the following attributes:

• Deep commitment to Catholic Social Teaching and progressive faith-rooted advocacy; prior experience with Catholic institutions or faith-based communities is strongly preferred.
• Senior leadership experience in nonprofit, faith-based, policy, or advocacy settings, ideally with oversight of staff, strategy, and organizational culture.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, including cultivating and stewarding individual donors, foundations, and institutional partners.
• Exceptional public communication skills, with experience serving as a public spokesperson and engaging effectively with media, policymakers, and diverse communities.
• High emotional intelligence and cultural competency, with demonstrated commitment to anti-racism, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and creating a multicultural organizational culture.
• Strong organizational and operational acumen, including financial oversight, internal systems development, and staff management.
• Education in law, public policy, theology, or related fields is preferred; JD, MDiv, MPP, or similar advanced degrees are a plus.
• Lived or professional experience that reflects the mission and values of NETWORK, including direct engagement with communities most impacted by systemic injustice.

Location, Compensation and Benefits

The NETWORK team is based in Washington, DC, with a mix of on-site and remote staff. While the role primarily requires on-site presence to support in-person leadership and collaboration, travel will be required to represent the organization at events and liaise with external stakeholders. NETWORK also values a healthy work-life balance and supports flexibility in how the Executive Director manages their schedule and work environment.

Salary is based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, skill set level and years of previous/applicable experience. The salary range for this role is between $170,000 - $210,000 with a generous benefits package which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, a robust time off policy which includes holidays, vacation, office closures, parental leave, sick days and personal days, 401K matching, and funds for professional development. Relocation assistance available.

How to Apply

To express your interest in this opportunity, please submit your resume and cover letter here.

About Maneva Group

Maneva Group is a leading woman and minority owned executive search firm dedicated to connecting exceptional talent with organizations committed to making a meaningful impact. Through a consultative and client-focused approach, Maneva Group partners with mission-driven organizations to build transformative leadership teams.

Our name, Maneva, comes from the combination of two Sanskrit words: “Mānav” meaning mankind, & “Sevā” meaning service. We are driven by the ideal of our name - service to humanity.