Gon Erez, a prominent nonprofit management consultant based in Cleveland, Ohio, offers invaluable insights into optimising operations and increasing impact within the sector. His unique background, blending psychology, economics, and military experience, provides a compelling perspective on navigating the challenges and embracing the opportunities within the nonprofit world.
Originally from Israel, where he served as a Human Rights Officer in the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Spokespersonâs Unit, Erez relocated to the United States at the age of 30. His academic credentials include a Bachelor's degree from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and a Master's degree in Nonprofit Management from Gratz College. He is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) at Eastern University, further solidifying his expertise in the field.
Erez's professional journey includes significant roles as Program Director at the Youngstown JCC and Chief Program Officer at the JCC of Greater Buffalo. These positions provided him with practical experience in transforming nonprofit operations through strategic planning and the implementation of business efficiencies. Now a freelance consultant, he guides organisations towards optimised operations and enhanced impact. Outside of work, he maintains a balanced lifestyle, pursuing outdoor activities such as snowboarding, hiking, and sailing.
In an exclusive interview, Erez shared his perspectives on several key aspects of nonprofit management:
The genesis of his interest in nonprofit work: "My time in the IDF ignited my interest. Witnessing the impact of structured, mission-driven efforts on community welfare and human rights inspired me to translate these principles into sustainable practices beyond a military context. I sought a career that would combine my skills in psychology and economics with my passion for social impact."
The influence of his Israeli background: "Israel fosters resilience and innovation. This mindset shapes my approach to nonprofit management, particularly in adapting to challenges and employing creative problem-solving. The emphasis on community and mutual support in Israeli culture guides my focus on community-centric strategies in the U.S."
A successful project illustrating his approach: At the JCC of Greater Buffalo, Erez spearheaded a project integrating digital tools to enhance engagement and streamline donor management. Utilising data analytics to understand donor behaviour, the initiative allowed for personalised outreach, resulting in a significant increase in funding. This exemplifies his focus on both efficiency and community engagement.
Challenges faced by nonprofits in adopting business efficiencies: "A significant hurdle is the necessary cultural shift. Nonprofits are often deeply mission-driven, and adopting business practices can be perceived as compromising core values. Practical limitations, such as limited budgets and staffing, also pose challenges."
Strategies for overcoming these challenges: Erez highlights the importance of education and transparency, clearly communicating how business strategies enhance, rather than detract from, the mission. He advocates for implementing small, incremental changes rather than large-scale transformations to ease the transition. Leveraging technology to automate administrative tasks frees up resources for mission-critical activities.
Staying current with industry trends: Erez emphasises the importance of continuous learning through formal education (his current MSW program), informal learning (webinars and networking), and participation in think tanks and forums focused on innovation in both the nonprofit and business sectors.
Future trends in nonprofit management: He predicts a significant increase in the integration of advanced technologies like AI and machine learning to personalise donor engagement and predict fundraising trends.
Advice for aspiring nonprofit managers: "Passion is essential, but develop resilience. The sector is immensely rewarding but also challenging. Navigating the emotional aspects while maintaining strategic focus is crucial for long-term success."
Erez's balanced lifestyle reflects his commitment to both his demanding career and personal well-being. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his consultancy, focusing on technology integration for nonprofits, complete his MSW, and potentially pursue a PhD. His dedication to continuous learning underscores his commitment to both professional growth and personal fulfilment. His insights provide a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of the nonprofit sector and optimising its impact.