The incoming Executive Director will take the helm of a thriving organization renowned for its rigorous scientific research, deep regional partnerships, and collegial culture during an exciting period of organizational growth. Serving as SFEI's visionary leader, public champion, and internal cornerstone, this individual 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 the organization distinctive.
The Executive Director reports directly and serves as the chief liaison to SFEI’s joint board. They will also manage a talented team of seven director-level staff. The new Executive Director will diversify SFEI's funding base to ensure long-term sustainability, strengthen the infrastructure and management practices needed to support a maturing organization, invest in staff wellbeing, and foster a transparent, collaborative environment that encourages partnership and innovation. This individual must be a clear, inspiring, and credible communicator across a broad spectrum of audiences, from scientific experts and regulatory partners to philanthropic funders, community and tribal groups, and the general public, with the ability to translate complex, cross-disciplinary work into narratives that inspire partnership, investment, and trust. Genuine intellectual curiosity, a deep appreciation for scientific integrity, and decisive strategic leadership in the face of complexity are essential qualities in this leader. This is a rare opportunity to shape the next chapter of an organization with an extraordinary foundation, an urgent, meaningful mission, and the potential for even greater impact.
Compensation
This is a full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position. The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $200,000-240,000, commensurate with experience, and in accordance with SFEI’s Compensation Philosophy.
SFEI offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
- 403(b) retirement plan with 5% employer match (vested immediately)
- 12 paid holidays per year, vacation days starting at 3 weeks, and 12 paid sick leave days per year
- A range of medical, dental, and vision plan options, with good value of costs to coverage and generous employer contributions.
- Medical and dependent care FSAs
- Employer-paid life insurance and long term disability policies
- Pre-tax commuter benefits
- Employee Assistance Plan
- Great workplace facilities including a full kitchen, bike room, shower, and easy access to BART
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.
Start Date
Late Summer 2026
To Apply
Select “Apply Here.” Please include a resume and a cover letter describing your qualifications that match the position criteria.
Interested candidates should apply by May 25, 2026 for priority consideration. The position is open until filled.
For More Information
For additional information regarding this opportunity, please contact Jen Kuznik, Senior Consultant and Search Lead at Potrero Group, at jkuznik@potrerogroup.com.
More information on the San Francisco Estuary Institute can be found at sfei.org.
