There are three principle characteristics of high-performing philanthropy professionals:

1) work ethic;

2) attention to detail; and

3) people skills.

The people skills refer to the ability to engage, write, present, articulate, and ultimately create long-lasting and powerful relationships.

Successful philanthropy is built on trust – between institutional leadership and donors. The ability of philanthropy professionals to facilitate this trust with many different constituent groups is a core competency required for success. In this session, Bill Littlejohn, Senior Vice President and CEO of Sharp HealthCare Foundation in San Diego, California, will share perspectives on more than three decades of relationship development and management in the complex environment of healthcare in the USA, including how professional tenure and long-term strategy and planning is a key factor in elevating both relationships and philanthropy.