Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I’m writing to share a job announcement for my position as executive director at EFI – and hoping you’ll help us find the right person to fill it!
I came to EFI in 2011 when it was just a concept. Fourteen years later, EFI has blossomed far beyond the certification program we first set out to build. We’re strengthening the business case for worker engagement and building a market that rewards employers for their rigorous labor practices. We’ve established a strong, talented team and a solid reputation in the industry as a trusted solutions provider.
EFI’s potential is greater than ever. And despite that, I informed the EFI board last year that they needed to start looking for new executive leadership. There are several reasons for my decision to leave this role:
- Philosophically, I don’t think anyone should lead anything indefinitely. Organizations grow and evolve over time through very different phases, and can benefit from a periodic injection of new perspective, insight and experience.
My passion is best suited to the start-up phase – turning an idea into a program and then an organization. But a maturing enterprise like EFI needs a different skillset to develop the culture and management systems required for the next phase of growth. - It’s important for people my age to create space and opportunity for the next generation to lead. (Frankly, that’s a message I wish politicians on both sides of the aisle would take to heart!)
- Leadership change is inevitable, so it might as well be logical: EFI is approaching the end of our current 5-year strategic plan, and in 2026 will create the blueprint for 2027-31. This is the obvious time to identify the person who will be ready next year to help craft and then implement that plan.
My goal now is to model a smooth and logical leadership transition that strengthens EFI and positions the organization for even greater impact in the future. I’m asking for your help to identify an impressive new leader who is ready in 2026 to start building on EFI’s experience and take it to the next level.
I’m not going anywhere yet, and will continue to work on responsible labor practices for years to come, but in a new capacity that has yet to be determined. In the meantime, it has been a real pleasure and honor to work with you! I hope you’ll share this job posting with your network and help EFI find a great candidate!
Gratefully,
Peter O’Driscoll
Executive Director