United Way Bay Area Commences Search for Next CEO

San Francisco, March 22, 2024–Today, United Way Bay Area, one of the most respected and highly effective philanthropic organizations fighting poverty in the region, announced that the search for its next CEO has begun. Outgoing CEO Kevin Zwick announced his plans to step down earlier this year after three and a half years at the helm. Chief Community Impact Officer Kelly Batson has been named interim CEO. United Way Bay Area is working with The 360 Group in the search for Zwick’s permanent replacement.

“We’re excited that the search to find United Way Bay Area’s next chief executive has begun,” said Gioia McCarthy, Chair of the United Way Bay Area Board of Directors. “Bay Area residents are facing complex challenges, including poverty and widening income inequality. Our strategic plan maps out the ways our organization will work to make the Bay Area a place where all people have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive in the coming years. We thank Kevin for his commitment to this organization, and outstanding leadership as CEO.”

Kelly Batson has been with the organization for nearly two decades. As Chief Community Impact Officer, Batson oversees all community impact work at United Way, guiding and supporting senior management under four main pillars of impact: Housing Justice, Meeting Basic Needs, Employment & Career Opportunities, and Financial Stability.

“I’m honored to lead United Way Bay Area during this time,” said Batson. “Having been with the organization since 2006, I have a unique understanding of UWBA’s position in the region, and the impact our work has on the lives of Bay Area residents. I look forward to seeing this impact from a new vantage point as we work to fill the CEO position.”

“Leading this organization as we’ve worked to dismantle the root causes of poverty in our region has been the most rewarding experience I could have asked for,” said Zwick. “I have no doubt that my colleagues will continue to make a lasting impact in the Bay Area and beyond. I look forward to what comes next with immense gratitude for the last few years.”

United Way Bay Area has engaged The 360 Group of San Francisco to lead a national search to identify its next CEO. The search has just begun, and is expected to take four to six months. Interested parties may learn more about the role here. The job posting, as well as United Way Bay Area’s strategic plan and theory of change, can be found on the nonprofit’s website.

To schedule an interview with a representative of United Way Bay Area, contact Haley Kubik at (425) 260-4100 or haley@emccommunications.com.

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About United Way Bay Area
United Way Bay Area (UWBA) mobilizes the Bay Area to assist people living in poverty and to dismantle the root causes of poverty. One of the most respected and highly effective philanthropic organizations fighting poverty, UWBA supports workers and students seeking employment and better careers, helps families struggling to meet basic needs, supports our neighbors toward achieving their financial stability goals, and advocates for housing justice for all Bay Area residents. Learn more at uwba.org.