The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the organization and ensures its fiscal health and sustainability. The Executive Director will guide ESF into its next era following the retirement of a long-term leader who has built a strong foundation of partnerships, conservation impact, and fundraising success.
The Executive Director sets ESF’s core strategic vision and oversees operations, resource development, and partnerships. The Executive Director is the face, voice, and heart of the organization and ESF’s ambassador to local, regional, and national conservation communities, including the National Estuarine Research Reserve System.
ESF seeks a leader with high-level fundraising and relationship skills and a proven ability to navigate complex, changing organizational and mission delivery environments. The ideal candidate will demonstrate values-based leadership, possess an engaging personality, and bring the confidence, humility, and emotional intelligence necessary to work effectively with a talented staff, an engaged board, and essential partners at a pivotal time in ESF’s history.
Please read the complete Position Profile for more information about the role.
Compensation
This is a full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position. The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $185,000–$225,000, commensurate with experience. The range provided is an estimate and will be evaluated on an individual basis, taking into consideration the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, experience, and education.
Location
The Executive Director works from ESF’s headquarters in Moss Landing, CA. The position requires the ability to be on-site on a regular basis. Travel will be required to manage partnerships and organizational needs across the region. Occasional night and weekend work will be required in coordination with program and operational needs.
Start Date
Spring 2026
To Apply
Select “Apply Here” below. Please include a resume and a cover letter describing your qualifications that match the position criteria.
Interested and qualified candidates should apply by January 23, 2026 for priority consideration. The position is open until filled.
For More Information
For additional information regarding this opportunity, please contact Andrew Leider, Managing Director and search lead at Potrero Group, at aleider@potrerogroup.com.
More information about Elkhorn Slough Foundation can be found at elkhornslough.org.
