Global nonprofit demand Waverly Partners functions as Ward Howell’s nonprofit search practice and already serves chambers, economic development organizations, trade associations, cultural arts, and human service agencies. Leverage Ward Howell’s international network to win cross-border leadership searches for nonprofit and government clients.

Chamber partnerships The firm has demonstrated success partnering with chambers (examples include Quad Cities and Akron), signaling a strong pipeline for retained executive searches within regional economic development ecosystems. Build a formal chamber partner program to scale across new markets.

International reach Being part of Ward Howell International provides access to a global network that can support multinational leadership searches, appealing to organizations seeking international governance expertise for nonprofit and public sector roles.

Leadership succession The nonprofit focus aligns with demand for CEO and executive director searches, board leadership placements, and succession planning in nonprofits, cultural institutions, and human services—offering both retained searches and potential interim leadership solutions.

Growth avenues With a mid-market footprint and a global backing, there are opportunities to partner with Ward Howell’s corporate clients for nonprofit leadership needs and to expand into grant-funded or government-related leadership engagements.