We’re thrilled to share the successful placement of Syeda Khurram as Chief Financial Officer at Classroom Champions, a nonprofit that empowers students through mentorship from world-class athletes.
Following a North American nonprofit executive search led by JANE Executive Search, Syeda’s appointment marks a key strategic hire. This leadership move supports Classroom Champions as it scales its impact across the U.S. and Canada.
A Proven Leader in Financial Strategy and Operational Excellence
Syeda brings over two decades of financial and operational leadership experience. Notably, she spent more than 14 years in the nonprofit sector.
She has held senior executive roles across a range of mission-driven organizations. These include her time serving as COO and CFO of the Alberta Barley & Wheat Commission. Most recently, she worked as a fractional CFO supporting nonprofits through ZIVO. In that role, she provided strategic financial leadership, compliance oversight, and board-level reporting to both Canadian and U.S.-based organizations.
At Classroom Champions, Syeda will lead finance, HR, IT, and organizational operations. Her work will directly support the organization’s mission to help students thrive – academically, socially, and emotionally. In addition, she will focus on building a sustainable, data-informed operational foundation.
“Syeda brings a wealth of experience in financial leadership, operational excellence, and organizational strategy,” said Seth Rosenzweig, CEO of Classroom Champions. “Her expertise will be instrumental in advancing our mission and positioning the organization for long-term success.”
A Mission-Driven Approach to Growth
Furthermore, Syeda’s track record includes managing portfolios of up to $500 million, building HR and governance frameworks from the ground up, and leading digital transformation efforts that improved efficiency and impact. Additionally, she has served in volunteer leadership roles, including as Vice Chair of 4-H Alberta and Director at GrainsWest Publications Society.
“I’m honoured and thrilled to step into the CFO role at Classroom Champions. I look forward to bringing both strategic financial leadership and a purpose-driven mindset to support meaningful impact and sustainability.”
~ Syeda Khurram, CFO, Classroom Champions
Syeda officially assumed her new role in August 2025 and will be based in Calgary, Alberta.
We’re proud to have partnered with Classroom Champions on this pivotal search and look forward to the impact of Syeda’s leadership in the years ahead.
Learn more about our Executive Search Process.
Read the full press release here.