Jay Kim selected as new executive director for the Foundation for MetroWest

NATICK — Jay Kim is the new executive director at the Foundation for MetroWest, the organization announced Monday.

Kim previously led day-to-day operations as the foundation's chief operating officer. He replaces Judy Salerno, who retired after serving 15 years. However, she will continue to work in a part-time capacity and help ensure a smooth transition, which the foundation says has been planned for several years.

“The Foundation for MetroWest has been a critical connector and partner for the cities and towns that comprise our region for the past 25 years, and I am passionate about ensuring our communities have a strong community foundation,” Kim said in a statement. “While I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to lead this remarkable organization, I am indebted to Judy for her steadfast leadership, vision and determination, which have molded the Foundation into the essential resource that it is today. We are committed to improving the quality of life for everyone in our area and will continue to advance that important mission.”

Salerno called herself "deeply proud" of her work, and said she is eager to support Kim in his new role.

As part of his goals, Kim said he wants to solidify the foundation's role as the go-to organization for anyone who wants to support and strengthen the region. The foundation’s emergency relief grant-making, which led to the distribution of more than $4 million in funding in 2020, will continue to play a role in its efforts in 2021, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect MetroWest individuals and families.

Kim also plans to expand Impact MetroWest, the Foundation’s interactive website featuring data specific to the region’s communities and amplify diverse organizations and voices across the region.

Louis Crosier, board of trustees chair for the Foundation for MetroWest, said Kim has "successfully overseen the day-to-day operations of the foundation, worked hard to gain the confidence of the staff, trustees, and MetroWest organizations and demonstrated his devotion to the future success of the foundation."

"There is no better person to lead the foundation into a new era," said Crosier.

Before joining the foundation in 2017, Kim led fundraising and development work for nonprofit organizations in Greater Boston. He fundraised for specific programs at the Boston Foundation and worked in corporate philanthropy at Target Corp. He also managed homelessness initiatives at the Fannie Mae Foundation and worked for Public Allies, a national AmeriCorps program.

He began his career as a corps member at City Year Boston.

Kim holds a bachelor of arts degree from Brandeis University. He lives in Sherborn with his wife and two children.

Zane Razzaq writes about education. Reach her at 508-626-3919 or zrazzaq@wickedlocal.com. Follow her on Twitter @zanerazz.