Executive Director

The Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation seeks an experienced and collaborative Executive Director to provide professional leadership and management. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will spearhead the Laguna Foundation's role as a lead conservation organization for the Laguna watershed, moving the organization forward with strategic clarity, financial strength, and authentic community partnership and connection.

The Executive Director must be an exceptional leader who combines nonprofit management expertise with a genuine passion for people and the environment—someone who is equally comfortable cultivating major donors, guiding a team of dedicated staff, deepening partnerships with Indigenous communities, and advocating for the organization and the wider watershed among diverse constituencies.

The Executive Director will serve as the primary ambassador for the Laguna Foundation, maintaining relationships with key partners, donors, policymakers, tribes, and other community stakeholders while overseeing the implementation of the organization’s strategic plan and restoration plans.

The ideal candidate is an excellent communicator and creative problem-solver who leads with collaborative energy, is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and brings proven strength in personnel management, financial management, and fundraising. They will be a convener and coalition-builder who sees partnerships as essential to conservation and environmental stewardship. They must be able to balance external relationships and programmatic opportunities with strong internal organizational and fiscal oversight, supporting the organization to thrive and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Compensation

This is a full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position. The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $160,000–$180,000, commensurate with experience. A competitive benefits package is included.

Location

The Executive Director will be based at the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation in Santa Rosa, California. Santa Rosa is located in the heart of Sonoma County, offering a vibrant community, beautiful natural surroundings, and convenient access to the broader Bay Area. The region is home to a rich network of conservation organizations, civic groups, and engaged community members deeply invested in the health of the Laguna watershed.

The position offers flexibility for periodic remote work depending on workload and daily schedule, with regular on-site presence expected. Local travel during business hours is typical, with occasional out-of-area and overnight travel. Some evening and weekend work is required. A valid Class C Driver's License and a clean driving record are required. A criminal history and DMV record check will be conducted prior to employment.

Start Date

July 2026

To Apply

Visit potrerogroup.com/laguna and 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 15, 2026, for priority consideration. The position is open until filled.

For More Information

More information on Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation can be found at lagunafoundation.org.

For additional information regarding this opportunity, please contact Stephanie Karp, Managing Director and Search Lead, at

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