About I3
The Intelligent Infrastructure Institute works to modernize the systems that underpin how communities function, economies grow, and democracy operates. Physical, energy, digital, and democratic infrastructure. All of it. We sit at the intersection of policy, public investment, technology, and stakeholder coordination. Our work requires people who can translate complex systems thinking into practical strategy, and who know how to build coalitions across government, industry, labor, and civil society.
The Opportunity
This is a founding role. You will set strategy, build relationships, and define what I3 becomes. The board has done substantive groundwork. There is no blank page. But there is genuine latitude, and real responsibility. In your first 90 days, you will assess what has been built, go deep into the field, and produce a clear three-year strategic direction. After that, you will execute it. The right person for this role is energized by building. You are comfortable with ambiguity, decisive once you have enough information, and skilled at earning trust with people who have little patience for anything that is not substantive.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and lead I3’s three-year strategy in partnership with the Board
Build trusted relationships across California’s infrastructure, energy, policy, and civic ecosystems
Represent I3 externally and position the Institute as a credible voice on infrastructure reform
Lead organizational development, including team culture, hiring, and internal operating practices
Partner with the VP of Operations and CFO on budgeting, financial stewardship, and operations
Support the Board on governance, strategic alignment, and board development
Contribute to fundraising strategy and cultivate philanthropic relationships
At least 10 years of senior leadership experience, including responsibility for organizational strategy and team leadership
Demonstrated ability to lead organizations through periods of growth, transition, or early-stage development
Experience working closely with nonprofit boards and supporting strong governance practices
Familiarity with infrastructure or energy policy, particularly within California’s regulatory landscape
Track record engaging philanthropic partners and contributing to fundraising strategy
Strong systems thinker able to translate complex ideas into focused, executable priorities
Excellent communicator comfortable engaging policymakers, experts, funders, and cross-sector partners
The Intelligent Infrastructure Institute offers a competitive executive compensation and benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and long-term sustainability of our leadership team. Benefits may include:
Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
Income protection benefits, including short-term and long-term disability coverage
Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and organizational holidays
Retirement benefits, including employer-supported retirement savings options
Flexible and remote work arrangements, with an emphasis on sustainable work practices
Professional development and leadership support, including opportunities for continued learning and growth
Reimbursement for work-related travel and expenses
Benefits are subject to change and may evolve as the organization grows.
Please apply here - https://ideali.st/drr9Px
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and not all applicants will be contacted. Selected candidates will be invited to a 30-minute introductory conversation. Candidates may be asked to complete a short written exercise and participate in interviews with the hiring team and Board of Directors. Final candidates will be asked to provide professional references. We aim to move candidates through the process within approximately four weeks of initial engagement, with final interviews conducted with the Board of Directors.
The Intelligent Infrastructure Institute works to modernize the systems that underpin how communities function, economies grow, and democracy operates. Physical, energy, digital, and democratic infrastructure. All of it. We sit at the intersection of policy, public investment, technology, and stakeholder coordination. Our work requires people who can translate complex systems thinking into practical strategy, and who know how to build coalitions across government, industry, labor, and civil society.