IBM is grooming its managers for second careers in the not-for-profit sector.

The company has teamed up with Bridgespan, a strategy consultant and head-hunter for the non-profit sector, to guide interested IBM employees and retirees in making the transition between Big Blue and "work that is meaningful, both personally and to society" according to a statement from IBM.

The Bridgestar initiative will build an online platform with tools and content to help users assess their readiness for the transition, identify potential opportunities and skills required, apply for available job opportunities, and receive mentoring.

After the pilot with IBM, the tools and resources developed will be made available for other non-profits and corporations wanting to start similar initiatives.

"This partnership between IBM and Bridgespan will provide a clear path from the end of a midlife career to an encore career for the greater good," said Marc Freedman, founder of think tank Civic Ventures.

"It's a great service for employees and a model for other employers to follow."

More than 640,000 new non-profit leaders will be needed by 2016 according to Bridgespan's 'The Nonprofit Sector's Leadership Deficit' report, largely due to baby-boomers retiring and growth in the non-profit sector.

At the same time, not-for-profit organisations are under increasing pressure to demonstrate results, leading to a demand for business-oriented skills.

In 2005, IBM launched Transition to Teaching, enabling employees interested in a second career to become K-12 (primary) maths and science teachers.