Zena Lum

Nonprofit Leader | Development Expert | Executive Search Specialist | Mentor & Coach

With three decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Zena is a trusted, results-driven leader known for her expertise in development, executive search, and mentorship. Her career reflects a deep commitment to advancing social impact and fostering inclusive, impactful partnerships.

Currently consulting, she most recently served as the inaugural Director of Development for the Boston Public Art Triennial, the city’s first organization dedicated to creating transformative public art experiences. As a member of the leadership team, she identified prospects and strategies to help grow the Triennial’s pipeline as it prepared for the launch of its inaugural triennial experience in May 2025. Prior to that, Zena was a member of Harvard Kennedy School’s Alumni Relations and Resource Development team, which marked a return to frontline fundraising after nine years at Lindauer Global, a nonprofit executive search firm.

Throughout her career, Zena has raised tens of millions of dollars for prominent Boston institutions, including Boston Public Schools, WGBH, Jumpstart, and the New England Aquarium. As a Senior Consultant at Lindauer, she placed development professionals in arts, healthcare, education, and social justice organizations, helping to strengthen nonprofit leadership across the sector.

A dedicated community member, Zena has volunteered with several local organizations including YW Boston, Artisans Asylum, Women in Development, and United South End Settlements. She is also a founding Advisory Committee member of Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy. Zena is an alum of LeadBoston (2011) and holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University.

Zena lives in Boston’s South End with her family and is passionate about supporting young professionals and emerging leaders that are driving positive change.