Northeast
Lara Tilley-Bouez
Senior Vice President
Summary
Lara Tilley-Bouez is a Senior Vice President at CCS Fundraising whose work is shaped by a global perspective, strategic depth, and a longstanding commitment to mission-driven organizations. Since joining CCS in 2008, she has partnered with clients across continents and sectors, helping them pursue philanthropic initiatives that strengthen communities and expand opportunity.
Specialties
Signature Insights
The Full Story
Lara’s CCS journey began in 2008, and her passion for philanthropy was evident from the start. Early in her tenure, she became part of CCS’s European team, advising organizations in Paris, Dublin, and Geneva. During this time, she spearheaded the historic €10 million campaign to transform the American School of Paris’ campus, an experience broadened her understanding of international fundraising and continues to influence her approach to strategy, partnership, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Since returning to the New York area in 2015, Lara has guided organizations with local, national, and global reach through planning studies, campaigns, and long-term development efforts. As a Senior Vice President, Lara is a thoughtful leader with a collaborative style grounded in curiosity and clarity. Clients value her ability to translate complex goals into actionable plans and to galvanize stakeholders around a shared vision.
Lara is also an active contributor to the philanthropic community. She serves on the Board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) New Jersey Chapter and supports the Alumni Giving Committee for the American School in Japan. A graduate of Northwestern University, she brings the same spirit of service to her personal life, including as a Girl Scout Troop Leader in her community.
Lara is a dual citizen of the United States and France and is conversant in French, Spanish, and Arabic. She lives in Hoboken, New Jersey with her husband and two daughters andfinds joy in the arts, travel, and supporting causes that advance education and equity. Colleagues often describe her as a steady, thoughtful presence whose genuine curiosity and commitment help others thrive.
When I think of our clients, I see a kaleidoscope of missions, but a singularity of purpose; all of them are trying to make the world a better place. I cannot imagine a better way to spend my days than working with clients toward this common goal.