Chief of Staff

California Marine Sanctuary Foundation; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

California Marine Sanctuary Foundation seeks a Chief of Staff to partner with the Executive Director, leading strategic planning, program management, and operational leadership. This senior role oversees multiple program areas and guides a dedicated team to advance CMSF’s conservation initiatives.

The Chief of Staff will excel in organizational planning, cross-functional collaboration, and people management, playing a pivotal role in CMSF’s growth and impact on marine and coastal protection.

Qualifications

• Strong program management experience within nonprofit/philanthropy.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Experience partnering with executive leadership to drive organizational strategy.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and organizational development across CMSF program areas.
• Oversee programmatic management and operational leadership to ensure successful initiatives.
• Act as thought partner to the Executive Director and guide a dedicated team toward CMSF goals.

Skills

Organizational leadership

People management

Program management

Strategic planning

Nonprofit/philanthropy knowledge

Job description

The Chief of Staff is a newly created 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 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!