Cleveland Foundation Announces Ayanna Hughey as New Head of Human Resources

Hughey brings two decades of HR expertise and leadership to world’s first community foundation
during time of growth and transformation

CLEVELAND, OH – The Cleveland Foundation has announced that Ayanna Hughey will join the foundation as its new Vice President, Human Resources, effective January 27, 2025.

In this strategic and critical leadership position, Hughey will lead efforts to ensure the Cleveland Foundation has the talent, capability, organizational effectiveness and human resources expertise to grow, build culture and impact performance today and into the future.

“As a growing organization and leader in the field of community philanthropy, our team will always be our most important asset and greatest strength,” said Lillian Kuri, President & CEO, Cleveland Foundation. “Ayanna has an impressive track record as a human resources leader and a deep commitment to centering people, community and equity at the heart of any successful organization. We are thrilled to welcome her to the foundation at this important time in our history.”

Hughey currently serves as Vice President, Human Resources for IMCD – a leading global distribution partner and formulator of specialty chemicals and ingredients. In her role at IMCD, Hughey built an enterprise-level HR function driving culture, compliance, and scalability for the U.S. region.

Previously, Hughey worked in various HR leadership roles for PepsiCo, Bausch + Lomb, and AMETEK/Reichert Technologies with early career roles at General Mills. She has proven experience in organizational transformation, employee engagement, talent and project management, and strategy development supporting executive-level leaders. She has also led change management efforts and supported the successful launch and adoption of enterprise-wide digital tools.

Hughey is originally from Elmira, New York. She started her career in nursing while simultaneously pursuing an Associate’s degree from Corning Community College in 1999, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ithaca College in 2000, and later earning her Master’s of Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University in 2009.

Ayanna’s volunteer and community activities in the Greater Cleveland area include mentoring youth in partnership with the Cleveland Angels as well as providing organizational consulting, policy development and youth education for the Inspiring Minds organization.

“I am a strong believer that passionate and engaged people are the power behind successful organizations, and I could not be more excited to join the mission-driven team at the Cleveland Foundation,” said Hughey.

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