Who we are

Kletos Partners was founded on the belief that philanthropy begins with a calling. In ancient Greek this is κλητός or klētós, a personal invitation to use one’s resources, influence, time, and whole being in service of something greater.

We advise individuals, families, and family offices on how to give with purpose, clarity, and discernment. Our clients range from next-generation philanthropists to established family foundations seeking to align their values with lasting impact.

Drawing on experience across the UK, US, Europe, and Asia, Kletos offers discreet, strategic counsel at the intersection of private wealth, institutional purpose, and social good. We design philanthropic strategies, governance structures, and partnerships that stand the test of time.

At its heart, Kletos is about vocation and stewardship. We help philanthropists articulate their purpose, refine their focus, and create legacies that endure beyond a single generation.

Named Building: The University of Hong Kong Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine and the Hong Kong Jockey Club Clinical Research Centre

Founder’s Note

I founded Kletos Partners because I believe philanthropy is not merely an act of generosity, it’s a response to a calling.

Over the past decade, I’ve worked at the crossroads of philanthropy and institutions: leading development teams at the University of Oxford and U.S. independent schools, advising family offices across Europe and Asia, and consulting for international charities and universities. I have seen how transformative giving becomes when conviction meets trust and thoughtful design.

Kletos exists to help families and individuals express that calling clearly and effectively - to move from good intentions to purposeful, well-governed philanthropy. My role is both translator and guide: understanding the structures and logics of institutions while standing beside the donor as they navigate their own path.

My recent research at Cambridge Judge Business School examined how trustees of grant-making foundations make decisions during periods of disruption: when demand rises, expectations shift, and inherited systems no longer work as intended. It reinforced something I have seen throughout my career: philanthropy is not only about choosing good causes, but about building the judgement, governance, and access structures that allow good intentions to become responsible action.

Kletos exists to help donors do that work with clarity, humility, and care.

Kletos Philanthropy Partners founder, Ethan Kuhn, at a Jesus College, Cambridge formal dinner as part of a Cambridge Judge Business School, Center for Social Innovation event

Contact us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!