Chapter 8 - The Interview
|
Finding a new director for the Foundation proved challenging.
Clara interviewed dozens of candidates.
Most were seasoned non-profit executives.
They spoke about donor retention and gala themes.
Clara rejected them all.
“They see it as a PR extension of Vance Technologies,” Clara told Arthur during a lunch meeting.
Arthur sliced his steak.
“It is a PR extension, Clara. To some extent.”
“It shouldn't be.”
Arthur sighed.
“Who are you looking for, then?”
“Someone who has been in the trenches.”
The next morning, Clara’s assistant, Maya, handed her a resume.
“She’s unconventional, Ms. Vance.”
Clara scanned the document.
The candidate’s name was Sarah Lin.
She had spent the last decade working as a public defender in family court, specifically handling high-conflict divorce and domestic abuse cases.
Her funding experience was minimal.
Her advocacy experience was unparalleled.
“Bring her in,” Clara said.
Sarah arrived wearing a slightly rumpled suit.
She looked exhausted but alert.
“Ms. Vance,” Sarah said, taking a seat.
“Ms. Lin. Your resume is impressive, but unconventional for a Foundation director.”
Sarah nodded.
“I don't know how to throw a black-tie gala, Ms. Vance.”
“Good. I don't want you to.”
Sarah looked surprised.
“What do you want?”
“I want to build a rapid-response legal and financial clinic for survivors of domestic and financial abuse,” Clara stated. “Fully funded. Zero cost to the clients.”
Sarah stared at her.
“You’re serious.”
“Entirely.”
“Why?”
Clara leaned back.
“Because I know what it feels like to have the locks changed on your own life.”
Sarah’s eyes sharpened.
“It will be messy. It will be legally complicated. We will anger powerful people.”
“I have a legal department that enjoys complicated messes,” Clara replied. “And I have never been afraid of angering powerful people.”
Sarah smiled.
May you like
It was a fierce, genuine expression.
“When do I start?”
