• by Ray Schultz , July 8, 2025

The Guardian has named Nicole Kotzen as senior vice president for development and executive director of theguardian.org, a nonprofit organization that was set up by the Scott Trust in 2017 to support independent journalism about today’s most pressing issues.  

As SVP, Kotzen will be tasked with leading a New York- and London-based team that grows foundation and philanthropic support for Guardian journalism and global editorial projects. 

Kotzen will also lead the work of theguardian.org and develop and maintain a board of directors.

Previously, Kotzen was senior director of individual giving and board relations at Friends of the High Line. 

“The global editorial projects funded by the Guardian’s philanthropy--touching on poverty, the future of democracy in America, the climate crisis, the safety of drinking water, and more--have never felt more important,” says Steve Sachs, managing director, US, the Guardian. “And with increasing threats to the news industry, philanthropic funding is an even more critical resource for us and our peers.” 

Sachs adds: “Nicole has the experience and vision to sustain our existing relationships and find new partners that align with our values and mission: providing world-class journalism without a paywall, free from corporate or political influence.”