Principal
Brief info
Principal
Email: [email protected]
Julie Lugo, Principal, brings to her role more than 23 years of service in the nonprofit sector and over a decade of executive search experience, specializing in senior-level retained searches for mission-driven organizations. She has successfully led C-suite and Director-level placements across a wide range of nonprofit sectors. Known for her strategic approach and relationship-driven style, Julie has a deep understanding of the complexities of the search process. She has a proven track record of building credible and influential relationships with senior executives, as well as implementing effective business development strategies that have expanded both her client portfolio and impact. Julie’s expertise lies in helping organizations strengthen their leadership and infrastructure to achieve both immediate and long-term goals.
Before transitioning to executive search, Julie spent 12 years as a frontline fundraising professional with a variety of Southern California organizations, including San Diego Zoo Global and the American Heart Association. Her dual expertise in fundraising and executive recruitment gives her a unique perspective on the sector’s needs, allowing her to make highly tailored and successful placements.
Active in the nonprofit community, Julie has served on the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) National Philanthropy Day Committees in both Orange County and San Diego and has held volunteer leadership roles with several Southern California nonprofits over the past decade. Raised in a family dedicated to service, Julie’s work is grounded in a deep commitment to strengthening and elevating the human services sector.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on the public sector, a Professional Certificate in Fundraising, and earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential. Dedicated to excellence and ongoing professional development, she is an active member of both the Network of Nonprofit Search Consultants and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Originally from the UK, Julie has lived in Southern California for the past 23 years and currently resides in San Diego with her husband, children, and their dog.