New York Public Radio, in the midst of a fresh leadership challenge, has named a Chief Development Officer, tasked with leading the organization’s development and membership teams for the parent of WNYC, WQXR, Gothamist, and New Jersey Public Radio.
In the role, Kimberly Watson will be responsible for increasing philanthropic support from all sources, overseeing member, donor, and institutional giving. Among her key priorities will be building “robust and sustainable” major, principal, and transformative gifts programs from individual and institutional donors and driving membership growth.
Watson previously held development leadership roles at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and the High Museum of Art.
Earlier this month, Christy Tanner stepped down as President and CEO after less than nine months in the role. Former CEO turned Executive Chair LaFontaine Oliver is serving as interim President, and a temporary Office of the CEO that also includes Jenna Weiss-Berman and Gary Knell is leading the organization during the search for a permanent successor.
Oliver noted, “Over three decades, Kim has helped some of the country’s most respected cultural institutions secure transformative gifts, grow their donor bases, and build sustainable and enduring fundraising operations. She knows how to connect the stories of cherished institutions to the people that power them, and we are thrilled to welcome Kim to this organization’s excellent team as they continue to reach and cultivate new and existing loyal supporters throughout New York and beyond.”
