When most people think about supporting nonprofit organizations, financial contributions are the first thing to come to mind. But for business leaders, charitable gifts are just one aspect of how they are driving impact in their communities. The judgment forged through difficult decisions, the ability to align people around a goal, and the relationships built over a career can be just as valuable—particularly when those assets are applied with purpose.
William Blair Chief Operating Officer Beth Satterfield has experienced this dynamic firsthand. Throughout her career, she’s paired business acumen and leadership with active involvement in nonprofit and community organizations. She has served as chairman of the board of College Possible, which helps students access and succeed in college, and currently serves in a leadership role for the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, among other community and professional organizations.
These experiences have shaped how Satterfield thinks about service. For her, community involvement is not simply about giving back; it is an opportunity to put her hard-earned leadership skills to work to strengthen communities around the world.
"It starts with believing in the organization’s mission, but that’s only part of it,” Satterfield said. "I also want to understand what the organization needs and where I can add value. The right fit is where those two things come together.”
Turning Human Capital Into Impact
The skills business leaders develop throughout their careers—building teams, navigating change, allocating resources, and evaluating competing priorities—can translate into powerful assets for mission-driven organizations.
For Satterfield, the key is to approach that work with the same level of rigor and commitment she’d bring to any leadership role.
"Nonprofit board service isn’t about providing extra time and resources; it’s about investing applicable expertise and showing up with intentional leadership,” Satterfield said. “If you’ve committed to an organization, you have to come prepared, ask hard questions, and find ways to put your skills to use.”
That philosophy is reflected in Satterfield’s own involvement and leadership. In 2023, the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals recognized her with its Champion for Change award, which honors senior executives who provide leadership that advances social and business impact. Satterfield was recognized for her differentiated leadership in the community and at William Blair, including using her financial expertise and role as chief operating officer to enhance the impact and alignment of the firm’s community engagement and philanthropic initiatives.
"Beth asks questions, makes connections, and is always looking for where she can add value and help move something forward,” said Laura Coy, William Blair’s head of philanthropy and sustainability. “Her perspective has helped us think more broadly about the ways our colleagues can use their time and talents to influence their communities.”
Applying an Operator’s Mindset
As William Blair’s chief operating officer, Satterfield’s role sits at the center of strategy and execution. Many of the same principles she uses in the corporate setting, from bringing people together around shared priorities to turning ideas into action, define successful leadership for nonprofits, as well.
“While the end objective may be different, nonprofit and social enterprise organizations also face questions about where to focus their resources, how to measure progress, and when an approach may need innovation or change,” Satterfield said.
The exchange can go both ways, she added. Community involvement can introduce business leaders to different perspectives and lessons they can carry back into their professional lives.
For Satterfield, service also means elevating her colleagues by paying forward some of the support she has received throughout her career. She has long viewed mentorship and sponsorship as responsibilities of leadership and another way professionals can make their time and expertise meaningful to others.
"As you gain professional experience, you have a responsibility and opportunity to share that knowledge,” Satterfield said. “If I can make an introduction, offer advice, or help someone work through challenges, I’m going to do it.”
Leading by Example
Business leaders also have a responsibility to recognize that what they choose to prioritize sends powerful signals throughout the firm, according to Satterfield.
Senior executives who commit their time, money, and expertise to an organization do more than support a particular cause. They demonstrate to colleagues that community engagement is valued and may inspire others to find ways to get involved.
"One of the most powerful ways leaders can encourage community engagement is by modeling it themselves,” said William Blair’s Nancy Bonges, director of community engagement. “It reinforces that community involvement isn’t separate from who we are as professionals or as a firm.”
That commitment is evident across William Blair. Nearly half of the firm’s partners serve on nonprofit boards, while more than 250 colleagues serve on nonprofit boards worldwide.
For leaders accustomed to measuring success in financial results, community leadership can offer a different definition of impact. But many of the fundamentals remain the same: understand the objective, listen to the people closest to it, bring your skills to the table, and follow through.
Learn more about William Blair’s community engagement efforts, including our nonprofit board service and our commitment to nonprofit clients.