The National Network of Public Health Institutes (NNPHI) seeks a visionary and collaborative leader to serve as its next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). After more than 13 years of remarkable leadership, NNPHI’s inaugural full-time CEO, Dr. Vincent Lafronza, will retire in December 2026. This is a rare opportunity to lead a highly respected, mission-driven national network at a pivotal moment for public health in the United States.

NNPHI is the national membership network for 52 local and state public health institutes (PHIs) nationwide. These nonprofit organizations operate at the local and state levels to strengthen public health systems and improve population health outcomes. PHIs are essential to the nation’s public health systems. With a presence in all 50 states and numerous territories, NNPHI’s members represent more than 12,000 public health experts and over $2.2 billion in annual funding in partnership with local and state public health systems. The incoming CEO will have a unique platform to shape public health infrastructure, policy, and collaboration nationwide, while supporting local innovation that improves lives and communities across the country.

Reporting to a highly engaged Board of Directors, the CEO is responsible for NNPHI’s strategy, operations, financial sustainability and national visibility and influence. As the face and voice of the organization, the CEO will guide NNPHI and its members through a rapidly evolving public health and funding landscape, championing the value of public health institutes, strengthening the network and positioning NNPHI for even greater long-term impact. The CEO oversees more than 50 staff across offices in New Orleans and Washington, D.C.

The ideal candidate will be a collaborative, entrepreneurial, strategic and values-driven leader with:

-Deep understanding of public health ecosystem and the unique role of public health institutes

-Significant senior executive leadership experience in complex, mission-driven organizations

-Proven success securing federal funding, grants, contracts, philanthropic support, and new business opportunities

-Strong financial acumen and experience guiding organizations through funding transitions

-Exceptional relationship-building, diplomacy and communication skills

-Experience advocating at the national level with federal agencies, policymakers, and major partners

-Experience building and leading high-performing leadership teams

-Commitment to health equity

-A leadership style grounded in humility, accessibility, and shared purpose

A graduate degree in public health, healthcare administration or management, business administration, or a related field is required. Federal government relations experience and established relationships with national public health leaders are strongly preferred. NNPHI has offices in New Orleans and Washington, D.C. and operates in a hybrid work environment. The CEO is expected to be a visible presence amongst staff and partners.

Confidential expressions of interest, nominations, and applications are welcomed and can be made via the WittKieffer candidate portal which can be accessed here. Inquiries and questions concerning this search may be directed to the WittKieffer search consultants, Jeff Schroetlin, Philip Tang, and Angela Raphael via email at araphael@wittkieffer.com.

The salary range for this role is $325,000 – $385,000. The final hiring salary is commensurate with experience.

NNPHI values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity for all persons regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.