Frederick “Fred” Owusu Named Chief Human Resources Officer, Kennedy Center
Impact Search Advisors by Nonprofit HR partnered to lead search of critical CHRO role

 “Fred’s depth of content knowledge and experience in compliance, in addition to his focus on optimizing employee performance, efficiency, and engagement, consistently earning trust as a trusted advisor to executives on complex HR and employee issues, made him the ideal candidate and one we are pleased to now have on our team. We are confident in his ability to make an immediate and sustained positive impact as the Chief Human Resources Officer at The Kennedy Center,” said Rutter.

Throughout his career, Owusu has demonstrated a proven track record in strategic HR leadership, contributing over two decades of experience across diverse industries, including local government, healthcare and academia. His expertise spans planning, organizing, and directing all HR activities, advising leaders on compliance with employment laws, fostering inclusive communities, and implementing creative practices to enhance talent acquisition, succession planning, labor relations, and performance management.

“I am profoundly honored to step into the role of Chief Human Resources Officer at The Kennedy Center. The institution stands as an indispensable pillar within the global performing arts community, and I am deeply committed to collaborating with the board, staff, and stakeholders to propel its mission forward and chart a definitive course toward its visionary future,” said Owusu.

Owusu’s ability to initiate positive change and enhance efficiency is evident in his career achievements. Known for building trust and engaging stakeholders, Owusu has fostered strong relationships at institutions like UCLA and Johns Hopkins Medicine. His commitment to the Kennedy Center’s values and mission aligns with the organization’s dedication to the arts, diversity and social responsibility.

“Navigating the complexities of leading a search for such a prestigious organization demanded a leader who not only embodies human-centric values but also possesses a profound understanding of scaling HR practices within intricate organizational frameworks,” said Lisa Brown Alexander, Founder & CEO, Nonprofit HR. “Fred emerged as the ideal candidate, boasting an impeccable track record, credentials, and a wealth of experience spanning various industries and sectors. Fred also brought to the table a strategic HR mindset, keen lens for operational excellence in talent management and a commitment to inclusion and belonging. Executive search expert, Danisha Martin, who led this highly competitive process, played a pivotal role in partnering with Kennedy Center throughout the entire search process and ultimately, identifying Fred as an excellent fit for the organization’s needs,” said Brown Alexander.

Owusu’s extensive professional experience includes roles such as Executive Director of Human Resources at Johns Hopkins Medicine – Sibley Memorial Hospital, Assistant Dean of Human Resources at UCLA, and Chief Human Resources Officer at Gateways Hospital & Mental Health Center. He has also served as Vice President of Human Resources at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC).

Owusu holds a Juris Doctorate from Mitchell Hamline School of Law, a Master of Healthcare Administration from the University of Minnesota, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Mount Saint Mary’s University. He actively engages in community leadership, having served as a board member for organizations such as Coachella Valley Volunteers in Medicine, Palm Springs Area Black Chamber of Commerce and Twin Cities Catholic Charities. Additionally, he is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association, SHRM, and a former member of the Ghana National Track and Field Olympic Team.

Media Contacts

Reporters interested in speaking with The Kennedy Center may contact Eileen Andrews, Vice President, Public Relations, at [email protected].

Reporters interested in speaking to Nonprofit HR may contact Atokatha Ashmond Brew, Managing Director, Client Marketing & Strategic Communication, at [email protected].

About Nonprofit HR

Nonprofit HR is the country’s leading and oldest firm focused exclusively on the talent management needs of the social sector, including nonprofits, associations, social enterprises and other mission-driven organizations. We focus our consulting efforts on the following practice areas: Strategy & Advisory, HR Outsourcing, Total Rewards, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Justice and Search. Inc. 5000 listed Nonprofit HR as one of the nation’s fastest-growing growing firms. Since 2000, our staff of credentialed experts has advanced the impact of some of the world’s most influential brands in the sector. Learn more at www.nonprofithr.com.

About The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts
The Center’s mission is to present classical and contemporary music, opera, drama, dance, and other performing arts from the United States and other countries; promote and maintain the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as the National Center for the Performing Arts; strive to ensure that the Center’s education and outreach programs and policies meet the highest level of excellence and reflect the cultural diversity of the United States; provide facilities for other civic activities at the Center; and provide within the Center a suitable memorial in honor of the late President. Learn more at Kennedy-Center.org.

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