Used to be a great place to work and share ideas - not so much anymore. - Anonymous Kauffman Foundation Employee Review

1.0
Aug 22, 2019
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

It was wonderful being a part of the Kauffman Foundation. The work that is done and the legacy that it stems from makes working there a true honor. Being a part of something so iconic and impactful. With deep pockets, the idea of "money is no object and doesn't hinder us" is real, and allows the Foundation to support their employees with great benefits and work environment. Everything you need to do the job is given. Also the on-site cafe, on-site gym, 401k w/match, vacation, and holiday break are great.

Cons

The Foundation, including management, used to be full of amazing people who were passionate, intelligent, kind, listeners, hard workers, and just down to earth nice people who believed in the vision of Mr. K. Not so much anymore. The last management change seems to have been chosen for their ability to be managed/controlled. There was a time where you were listened to and encouraged to speak up, disagree, have a conversation and discuss differences; collaborate on the way forward. Now it's the opposite. Don't rock the boat. Management places themselves on a pedestal and are unreachable. HR is now there for the employer, not the employee. Employees are afraid to disagree with management or speak up, and if you do - well - watch out. The Board President is a woman, the CEO is a woman, and many key management positions are held by women, and yet they reduced maternity leave from 12 weeks paid to nearly nothing.

avatar
Kauffman Foundation Response
6y
Thanks for taking the time to share your feedback. I’d very much like the opportunity to talk with you to better understand your perspective. It sounds like the collaborative work groups, fail fests and “open door” practices we have didn’t do enough to create an experience where you felt you could be heard. I’m sorry to hear that and I’d like to know more so that we can improve. I have to disagree on maternity leave – we prioritize associate wellness – which includes family leave. Our leave for parents— moms and dads - provides 4 weeks paid at 100% and 7 weeks paid at 60% as well as additional time supported through PTO. Our benchmarking shows that this is competitive nationally and in Kansas City. I hope you’ll connect with me at kbdalen@kauffman.org. Best, KBD

Explore other reviews about Kauffman Foundation

5.0
May 25, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Treat employees very well. The location is also very nice.

Cons

Can be very unorganized. Power structure and goals are often times unclear

3.0
Sep 17, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Helping the community, good benefits

Cons

Low accountability, culture, and little flexibility

1
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All