COMPANY NEWS: The Compass Group Transitions Ownership

National fundraising consultancy, The Compass Group, announces the first ownership transition in its 30-year history. Current Compass president Robert Lee Bull, Jr. has acquired the company from founder, Frank Pisch.

Frank Pisch, the visionary behind The Compass Group, started the consultancy with a mission to help nonprofits build capacity to raise more money every day. With a legacy spanning over four decades, Pisch’s results-driven fundraising experience has positioned The Compass Group as a trusted partner for nonprofits, educational institutions, and philanthropic organizations worldwide.

“After careful consideration and reflection, I am pleased to announce the transition of ownership of The Compass Group to my longtime mentee, colleague, and friend Rob Bull,” said Pisch. “Under Rob’s leadership the organization is in a great place today thanks to his unwavering dedication to our company’s work, coupled with his unparalleled expertise and commitment to consistent high-quality service to our clients. I can’t imagine a better future for The Compass Group.”

Bull, who has served as president of The Compass Group for the last five years, will continue to lead the team of 20+ fundraising professionals. With 30 years in fundraising—and more than 20 of those with Compass—Bull brings a deep understanding of the fundraising landscape to this new role as owner.

With this change in ownership, the company’s headquarters will shift from Alexandria, Virginia to Baltimore, Maryland where Bull resides. Compass’ new office space is located at 800 North Charles Street in the vibrant center of Baltimore City’s Mt. Vernon neighborhood.

“I am honored and excited to assume ownership of The Compass Group,” said Bull. “Under Frank’s guidance, we have built a reputation for delivering exceptional results for our clients. I am delighted to carry that legacy forward with my own vision for how we can work with organizations to build inclusive environments and spark positive change—especially those who haven’t historically had access to fundraising counsel.”

In addition to his time with Compass, Bull spent three years serving as the Chief Development Officer at the National Trust for Historic Preservation. He is an active supporter of his alma mater Goucher College where he is a member of the Board of Trustees and also holds the role of campaign chair for the college’s [UNDAUNTED] campaign, which recently surpassed its $100 million fundraising goal. Bull also serves on the Board of Directors for the League of Historic American Theatres.

One of Bull’s areas of focus is democratizing fundraising and he makes it a priority to share Compass’ expertise with nonprofits who might not otherwise have access. He is particularly passionate about the museum industry and works with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Association of African American Museums, and serves on the Leadership Institute Faculty for the Southeastern Museums Conference.