Foundation conducting national search; Cowan steps into new role

Marsha Cowan has announced her retirement as Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba. She will remain in her current position until December 31, 2017, and will then assume a new role as Strategic Endowment Consultant. Cowan has served as CEO since 2005.

“We knew this day would come and we have been working with Marsha to identify ways that we can still benefit from her remarkable fund development skills,” said Anita Wortzman, Chair of the JFM. “I am happy to say that she will still be working with us.”

In her new role, Cowan will work with select fundholders and prospects to grow their endowments at the Foundation. It is a two-year appointment during which she will also help the new CEO settle into the position.

“Our strategic plan calls for transformational growth in the coming years,” added Wortzman. “Marsha’s new responsibilities will play a key role in the fulfillment of our vision.”

A Selection Committee has already been struck to identify a new CEO and a human resources firm has been retained to conduct a national search. It is hoped that a new CEO will be in place by the fall.

“We have been so fortunate to have the type of professional leadership we have had over the years. We are over 50-years-old as an organization and have been led by three dynamic, long-serving executives,” said Dr. Eric Winograd, incoming Chair of the Foundation. “Like Izzy Peltz and David Cohen before her, Marsha has led us with passion and skill. The Foundation has grown considerably under her direction. Thanks to Marsha, we are very well-positioned for our next level of growth. We will be looking for a new leader cut from the same cloth as Izzy, David, and Marsha.”

Prior to joining the Jewish Foundation as CEO, Marsha served as the volunteer President of the Foundation and was instrumental in the launch of the Women’s Endowment Fund.

“Serving the community as CEO of the Foundation has been exhilarating and rewarding beyond words,” said Cowan. “I am looking forward to my new position and to working with my successor to ensure our continued growth and impact.”