An accomplished senior recruiter who brings insight, empathy, and commitment to his work, Flavio dos Santos Furtado has played a key role in more than 520 executive searches for mission-driven organizations through his work with Freeman Philanthropic Services. His ability to connect with candidates has helped accelerate successful leadership placements for institutions such as Weill Cornell Medicine, the Museum of Fine Arts, the American Red Cross, Florida State University, Fordham University, Pratt Institute, AmeriCares, Smile Train, Feeding America, UNCF, and the National Urban League.
Originally from Brazil, Flavio first became involved in the nonprofit world through volunteer work, which opened his eyes to the power of mission-driven organizations. After relocating to New York, he transitioned into recruiting and quickly found his calling. What he values most about his work is the variety and purpose it brings—each candidate search presents a new challenge and with every organization comes a new opportunity to make an impact.
Flavio specializes in identifying and evaluating candidates for leadership roles across a broad spectrum of nonprofit organizations, including hospitals, social services, higher education, cultural and advocacy groups, and faith-based communities. He has a particular passion for supporting efforts that serve children and vulnerable communities—causes that are especially close to his heart. As a father and someone who has witnessed the challenges of economic inequality firsthand, he brings both compassion and expertise to his work. Flavio is driven by a belief in the transformative impact the right leader can have on an organization’s mission, its team, and the community it serves.
Fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, Flavio builds trusted relationships with diverse candidates throughout the U.S. and beyond. Known for his thoughtful outreach and responsiveness, he approaches recruitment with authenticity, consistency, and respect.
Before joining the world of executive search, Flavio spent two decades working for Avaliadora Geral de Bens (AGB), a corporate property valuation company in Brazil. He studied Civil Engineering at the University of FUMEC and completed the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ (AFP) Fundamentals of Fundraising course. He has also volunteered with Centro Latino, a nonprofit that works to improve the lives of Latinos.
Based in New York City, Flavio brings a global perspective, cultural fluency, and a personal commitment to equity and excellence in leadership.
