Capacity-Builder Joins the TCI Team as Executive Director

An interview with Laura Deaton, TCI’s new Executive Director

What made you interested in becoming TCI’s new ED?

After almost a decade of national nonprofit consulting, I made a conscious career shift – I wanted to work locally yet have global impact. I’m passionate about capacity-building, and have repeatedly witnessed the critical need for a strong operational backbone for leaders bringing their bold visions to fruition.

TCI appealed to me because we serve as strategic thought partners for project leaders while providing professional, flexible and responsive services to meet their needs. TCI’s 10-year track record of program success, combined with a terrific Board and staff made me certain this was the right match.

Where would you like to take TCI?

I want TCI to be widely known and respected as the “go-to” fiscal sponsor for innovative environmental initiatives in areas as diverse as water and energy conservation, marine and fisheries conservation, sustainable food systems, environmental education and land conservation. At the same time, it will be important for us to keep our “boutique” and laser-like focus on serving each unique project in ways that help catalyze success.

What do you think your biggest challenge will be in achieving those goals?

The biggest challenge is a broad challenge – the fiscal sponsorship model is new to many players within the nonprofit community. For us, that means actively seeking opportunities to educate funders, resource centers, and environmental fellowship providers about the advantages of fiscal sponsorship through TCI.

What’s your basic strategy for helping TCI-sponsored projects succeed?

In most corporations and in many large nonprofits, a Chief Operating Officer (COO) works alongside the CEO, providing day-to-day management of finance and human resources as well as serving as a strategic advisor to the CEO.  At TCI, we provide the same high-caliber, professional COO-level services to every project, regardless of project size.

Describe one of your proudest (work-related) moments.

I am still (20 years later) serving as a mentor for one of the first employees I ever hired at a nonprofit. Being able to support current leaders and help foster next-generation leaders is baked into my DNA and a big part of why I love my work.

What do you like to do when you are NOT at work?

I am an avid gardener, day hiker, and thrilled to be able to enjoy all of the stunning natural resources that we have access to in the Bay Area.