Attracting the Future of Nonprofit Leadership: A Qualitative Study of Executive Candidacy in the Mid-Atlantic United States

Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Committee Chair

Patrick Bennett

Committee Member

Eric Hutchison

Committee Member

Yuerong Sweetland

Abstract

This exploratory qualitative study examines the job candidacy experience for nonprofit leaders in the Mid-Atlantic United States. Using a phenomenological approach, this study consists of semi-structured interviews that allowed for an in-depth understanding of the perspective of nonprofit leaders throughout the candidacy process. Data collected from these interviews were analyzed thematically, identifying five key themes that shape decision-making during the candidacy experience. These themes included motivation and intent to pursue leadership, navigation of application and selection mechanics, communication and transparency as trust builders, emotional responses, and onboarding and fit. The findings of this study suggest that executive candidacy is experienced not only as a procedural evaluation but also as a relational and interpretive process through which candidates assess organizational culture and values. Practical considerations and directions for future research are also discussed.

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