San Francisco Estuary Institute, in partnership with Potrero Group, a national executive search and leadership consulting firm, seeks a collaborative, strategic, and dynamic Executive Director. The incoming Executive Director will lead one of the Bay Area’s most respected environmental science organizations, known for its rigorous, unbiased scientific research, deep regional partnerships, and collegial culture. Serving as SFEI's visionary leader, public champion, and internal cornerstone, this individual will join the organization during an exciting period of expanded federal investment and organizational growth. They will be responsible for sustaining the organization's growth, strengthening its financial resilience, and expanding SFEI's reach to new audiences and communities, while preserving the impact, identity, and culture that make it distinctive. This is a rare opportunity to shape the next chapter of an organization with an extraordinary foundation and an urgent, meaningful mission.
Key Responsibilities:
- Partner with the board and staff to lead SFEI's strategic direction while ensuring its scientific integrity and organizational resilience
- Maintaining SFEI's long-term financial sustainability by diversifying and growing its unrestricted revenue portfolio across government, philanthropic, and corporate sources
- Support a thriving, mission-driven culture by strengthening internal systems, mentoring leadership, and building pathways to develop and retain top talent
- Serve as SFEI's primary ambassador, elevating its public profile and connecting its science to the broader Bay Area community
- Cultivate and expand SFEI's network of partnerships to deepen its collaborative reach and ensure its science informs regional decision making
Desired Experiences and Competencies Include:
- Strategic Vision & Leadership. Proven experience leading organizational strategy through significant growth or evolution.
- Fundraising & Financial Stewardship. A financially sophisticated nonprofit leader with a track record of managing complex grant portfolios and building new philanthropic relationships.
- Organizational Leadership & Team Culture. A people-centered manager adept at mentoring senior leaders, modernizing internal systems, and cultivating collaborative workplace cultures where teams thrive and grow.
- External Relations & Communications. An inspiring communicator and spokesperson who translates complex science for any audience.
- Partnership Building. Deep experience cultivating relationships across nonprofits, government, academia, philanthropy, the private sector, and communities.
COMPENSATION
This is a full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position. The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $200,000–$240,000, as well as a comprehensive benefits package.
LOCATION
SFEI is based in Richmond, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area. This position requires regular in-person presence at SFEI's offices and regular travel throughout the Bay Area for stakeholder engagement, partner meetings, and public events. Hybrid and flexible work arrangements are supported.
TO APPLY
Please visit potrerogroup.com/sfei and select “Apply Here.” Applications should include a resume and a cover letter describing your qualifications relative to the position criteria and what you will bring to the role.
Interested candidates should apply by June 7, 2026 for priority consideration.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For additional information, please contact Jena Kuznik, Senior Consultant, at [email protected].