Charles Hill Will Become New CEO of Isles on Monday
The Trenton-based organization appointed the former company vice president to lead its ongoing operations.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in People
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Charles Hill is set to assume the role of CEO at the Trenton-based organization Isles on Monday, October 5, 2026. He will replace outgoing CEO Sean Jackson following a period of organizational restructuring.
Why it matters
The board selected Hill for his previous experience in economic development and his prior tenure at the nonprofit. This leadership change occurs as the group navigates financial pressures and recent reductions in its workforce.
Isles reduced its staff by 39 positions from a total of 124 employees in August 2026. The organization, founded in 1981, cited rising costs and federal funding cuts for the recent workforce reduction.
The players
Charles Hill
He is the incoming CEO of Isles who previously held the role of Vice President of Community Planning at the organization.
Sean Jackson
He is the outgoing CEO of Isles who is stepping down from the leadership position.
Isles
This Trenton-based nonprofit organization focuses on community development and was founded in 1981.
The details
Charles Hill previously served as the Vice President of Community Planning at Isles from 2002 to 2004. The organization experienced a recent loss of federal funding linked to cuts within Americorps programs, contributing to the decision to lay off staff.
Timeline
Isles was founded in 1981.
Charles Hill worked as Vice President of Community Planning from 2002 to 2004.
The organization laid off 39 staff members in August 2026.
The leadership change was announced on October 1, 2026.
Charles Hill begins his tenure as CEO on Monday, October 5, 2026.
Market Landscape
The transition at Isles reflects a broader struggle for local nonprofits adapting to the sudden loss of federal support. This move positions the organization to refocus its internal resources under new leadership following the 2026 federal Americorps program funding cuts.
Residents who rely on Isles for community services may see shifts in operational focus as the new CEO takes charge. The organization continues to provide established programs like GoTrenton!, which facilitates 10,000 monthly rides.
The takeaway
Nonprofits often leverage historical institutional knowledge when navigating turbulent financial cycles. A focus on stability and economic development remains a priority for the incoming administration.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership changes, visit the Trenton People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Trentonian.
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