Kyle Peterson, former managing partner of nonprofit consulting firm FSG, has been named the new executive director of the Walton Family Foundation, a nonprofit engaged in marine environmental conservation.
Formed by Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart, and his wife Helen, the Walton Family Foundation annually awards more than USD 375 million (EUR 334 million) in grants. The nonprofit recently announced plans to make grants of more than USD 2 billion (EUR 1.8 billion) by the year 2020.
“Kyle is an innovative, entrepreneurial and idea-driven executive who will lead the foundation as we continue to focus on addressing important social issues through our philanthropy,” said Carrie Walton Penner, chair of the foundation’s board of directors. “Kyle shares the principles that have guided our work for nearly 30 years – a focus on individual empowerment and delivering long-lasting results. His fresh thinking and cross sector experience will lead the foundation as we further our scope and impact.”
At FSG, Kyle managed more than 100 consulting projects in areas of strategy, program design, operations and evaluation. Prior to his time at FSG, Peterson was a strategy consultant at OnTheFrontier, advising Rwandan President Paul Kagame on his country’s economic strategy. Peterson also worked as a country director in Zimbabwe and Rwanda for Population Services International.
Peterson will succeed Buddy Philpot, who led the organization for 15 years. Last year, Philpot announced his intention to join Walton Enterprises but will stay with the foundation until Peterson begins his job in September 2016.
“Ambitious, rigorous and system-oriented thinking is part of the Walton Family Foundation DNA. When that ethos combines with a dedication to addressing some of the most urgent challenges of our time, the results can transform our natural world and the lives of millions and their communities,” Peterson said. “This is an exciting time to join the Walton Family Foundation and an honor to lead the organization into its next chapter, building on impressive results, expert staff and new strategic plans in each program area.”
