FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Nicole Kirkorian Elmes Appointed President of Missionwell
Missionwell announces a strategic move to manage growth sustainably.
Release date: August 25, 2025
Location: Pasadena, California
Missionwell is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole Kirkorian Elmes as President, effective September 2, 2025. This newly created position is a strategic move to help Missionwell manage its growth sustainably, and for the benefit of both our business partners and employees.
Nicole has over 15 years of leadership experience spanning Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations. She is known for her ability to scale organizations, improve operations, and build high-performing, inclusive teams. Caryn Ryan, Managing Member, commented, "Nicole is just right for this time in Missionwell's history. Her wealth of for-profit experience, her understanding of nonprofits, and her clarity on the importance of strong relationships make her the perfect fit."
Nicole's professional experience includes roles such as Senior Director of Strategy & Operations at DoorDash, where she led a 20+ person organization supporting over 2 million delivery drivers with strategic partnerships, sentiment and retention programs, and financial services. Nicole was recognized with the prestigious DoorDash Compass Award for her outstanding contributions to improving the lives of DoorDash delivery drivers through initiatives like the Dasher Relief Fund and financial support programs. She also served as Vice President of Publishing Sales at Disney Parks, Experiences & Products, and Director of Product Strategy & Distribution at Disney Media Entertainment Distribution.
In the nonprofit sector, Nicole has held leadership positions such as Board Chair at the Center for Children and Board Member at Strides in Recovery. She has been instrumental in strategic planning, operational efficiency, and community engagement at various nonprofits and faith-based organizations.
In addition to her MBA from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio School of Business, Nicole holds a BFA from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Nicole, her husband, Chris, and their three children Leland (16), Blythe (12) and Brynn (8) live in Southern California and attend La Crescenta Presbyterian Church.
Please join us in welcoming Nicole to Missionwell!
Caryn S. Ryan, Founder & Managing Member
Kathleen A. Swain, Managing Member
About Missionwell
Missionwell specializes in Finance and Accounting, Human Resources, and Corporate and Board Support services. We partner exclusively with nonprofit organizations to help manage their people, financial complexity, and risk. Our expert team of accounting, HR, and financial professionals brings expertise and innovation, making information transparent, providing practical solutions, and supporting strong decision-making. At Missionwell, we understand the challenges nonprofit leaders face and have a long history of helping them streamline and modernize their practices and systems