About the Organization
The California Marine Sanctuary Foundation (CMSF) is dedicated to preserving coastal and ocean resources for present and future generations. Our mission is centered on protecting marine ecosystems, improving water quality, fostering climate resilience, and restoring coastal habitats. Through our four core programs—Marine Conservation, Water Quality, Climate Change Adaptation, and Coastal Restoration—we provide strong leadership and advance critical work in science-based policy, communications, and on-the-ground project implementation to enhance ocean and coastal health. CMSF is a close foundation partner with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and leads several state and federally-funded conservation projects.
For more information, please visit California Marine Sanctuary Foundation.
Chief of Staff
The Chief of Staff is a new senior leadership position that will have strategic planning, programmatic management, and oversight responsibilities across multiple CMSF program areas. As a thought partner to the Executive Director, and working collaboratively with program leads, the Chief of Staff will play a vital role in organizational planning, program development, operational leadership, and will ensure success in CMSF’s overall initiatives.
The successful candidate will possess superb organizational and people management skills and will have a strong aptitude and passion for leading and inspiring a team of highly dedicated experts. They will have high-level program management experience, an understanding of the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, and a strong background in at least one of our program areas.
Reporting to the Executive Director, this role is an opportunity to join a growing organization at the forefront of marine and coastal conservation efforts. As the Chief of Staff, you will manage a dedicated team making a tangible difference in protecting one of the world’s most iconic coastlines.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
The Chief of Staff will perform the following and other duties as assigned:
Program Support and Implementation
Executive and Strategic Support
Operational Leadership
The successful candidate will have the following minimum qualifications:
Education and Experience
Skills and Competencies
Attributes
Compensation and Location
This is a full-time position with competitive compensation between $130-150K depending on experience. CMSF also provides a benefits package including vacation, paid holidays and sick leave, medical and dental benefits, and a 403(b)(7) retirement plan with a 3% match and vesting after one year. CMSF is flexible and willing to discuss possible relocation assistance, as needed.
This is NOT a remote position. Candidates must be available to work at least two days per week (Monday and Wednesday preferred), during traditional business hours, from CMSF’s Santa Cruz offices. As mentioned above, please do not apply if you are unable to reliably commute to Santa Cruz.
CEA Recruiting is assisting CMSF with this search. To be considered for this position, interested candidates must follow the link below to submit a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements through CEA’s job portal. Please direct all applications and inquiries to CEA Recruiting. This position will remain open until filled.
https://job.ceaconsulting.com/jobs/chief-of-staff-monterey-ca-107398
To advance the understanding and stewardship of ocean resources and coastal watersheds.