About Media Democracy Fund

Media Democracy Fund (MDF) is a catalyst for racial justice and equity in digital society. MDF brings together diverse voices to design inclusive and responsible solutions and empowers public interest advocates to create an environment where digital technologies and the internet have a long-term, positive impact on society.

MDF has made more than $50 million in investments in the field since its founding in 2006. In 2024 alone, MDF has moved more than $4.5 million in grants and contracts. In addition to grantmaking, MDF works hand-in-hand with grantees, funders and allies to connect partners from all corners of the field, to ensure advocates have the smart thinking and resources they need to act quickly on some of the most pressing issues of our time, from broadband access and digital equity, to tech accountability, to combating racialized disinformation. MDF’s role as a catalyst includes: incubating field-defining research and strategy development; making smart, catalytic investments; connecting emerging leaders and experts with funders for continuous education; convening funders and grantees to spark ideas and create new connections; building and supporting grassroots coalitions to leverage their power; and managing campaigns to build momentum for change.

As MDF reflects on its accomplishments and commitments to create a thriving, racially just and equitable digital society, the organization seeks an innovative and engaging Executive Director who can build and organize a diverse community of funders aligned on intersectional issues and across sectors. The Executive Director will work in close partnership with MDF staff to develop and lead strategies that advance MDF’s mission of being a catalyst for racial justice and equity in digital society. They will also work closely with funding partners to develop strategic opportunities for transformational impact. They are the liaison with MDF’s Board of Advisors and the primary point of contact with leading funding partners.

The ideal candidate will be an inspiring communicator and proven fundraiser with deep philanthropic and sector networks and a strong record of successful leadership. They will demonstrate the managerial skills required to guide a highly regarded organization towards new opportunities in a rapidly changing landscape, as well as the experience to lead a high-performing team to promote a healthy culture of collaboration and accountability.

Candidates should be prepared to offer examples of strategic initiatives they have led that facilitated cross-sector alignment and built lasting and trust-filled relationships. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to justice and equity, be forward-thinking, and bring the highest level of integrity to this important work.

To Apply

More information about Media Democracy Fund may be found at: mediademocracyfund.org.

This search is being led by Katherine Jacobs, Sharon Gerstman and Andres Marcuse-Gonzalez of NPAG. Candidates may submit their cover letter, outlining their interest and qualifications, along with their resume via NPAG’s candidate portal.

New Venture Fund Careers
Media Democracy Fund is a project of New Venture Fund (NVF), a 501(c)(3) public charity that incubates new and innovative public-interest projects and grant-making programs. NVF is committed to attracting, developing and retaining exceptional people, and to creating a work environment that is dynamic, rewarding and enables each of us to realize our potential. NVF’s work environment is safe and open to all employees and partners, respecting the full spectrum of race, color, religious creed, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and all other classifications protected by law in the locality and/or state in which you are working.

E-Verify
NVF participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with employees’ Form I-9 information to confirm authorization to work in the United States. Job candidates and employees authorized to work may not be discriminated against on the basis of national origin or citizenship status.