Executive Director

Save the Redwoods League; Berkeley (CA); Hybrid; USD 160,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional trail advocacy organization is seeking an experienced Executive Director to lead its growth and community engagement efforts. The role involves guiding the completion of a 550-mile trail, building diverse partnerships, and advocating for the Ridge Trail's regional vision. Compensation ranges from $160,000 to $200,000 annually, with a hybrid work model based in Berkeley, CA. Applications are due by April 17, 2026, for priority consideration.

Qualifications

• Experience leading non-profit organizations or similar.
• Ability to build and sustain partnerships across diverse groups.
• Strong communication skills for public and agency interactions.

Responsibilities

• Guide completion and stewardship of a regional trail system.
• Build partnerships across public and private sectors.
• Serve as a primary advocate for the Ridge Trail Council.

Skills

Collaborative leadership

Strategic planning

Partnership building

Community engagement

Financial stewardship

Job description

The Bay Area Ridge Trail Council seeks an experienced, collaborative Executive Director to guide completion, activation, and stewardship of a world‑class 550‑mile regional trail system encircling San Francisco Bay.

The Bay Area Ridge Trail Council seeks an inspiring, strategic, and deeply collaborative Executive Director to lead the organization through its next chapter of growth, trail completion, and popularity and public use. The Executive Director will serve as the primary advocate for the Ridge Trail Council’s regional vision, building partnerships across public agencies, private landowners, elected officials, community organizations, land trusts, and tribes to close critical gaps and sustain the trail for future generations.

The Executive Director will lead with collaborative energy and authentic partnership, recognizing that the Ridge Trail’s success depends on engaging agency partners and connecting organizations and communities. The Executive Director will serve as a convener of regional trail discussions, a catalyst for funding opportunities, a coordinator of technical work, and a promoter for community connections. They will navigate complex partnerships, direct a skilled and motivated staff, enhance Ridge Trail growth and funding, balance natural resource protection with public engagement, and champion the Ridge Trail throughout the communities it serves.

Compensation

This is a full‑time, exempt, benefit‑eligible position. The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $160,000–$200,000. The range provided is an estimate and will be evaluated on an individual basis, taking into consideration the candidate’s knowledge, skills, abilities, experience, and education.

Location

The Bay Area Ridge Trail Council office is located in Berkeley, CA. The Executive Director will be based in the San Francisco Bay Area with a hybrid work arrangement. The position requires regular in‑person presence for meetings with agency partners, elected officials, landowners, donors, and community constituents throughout the nine‑county Bay Area region.

Start Date

Summer 2026

To Apply

Select “Apply Here” below. Applications should include a resume and a cover letter describing your qualifications that match the position criteria and what you will bring to the role.

Interested and qualified candidates should apply by April 17, 2026, for priority consideration. The position is open until filled.

For More Information

For additional information regarding this opportunity, please contact Andrew Leider, Managing Director and Search Lead at Potrero Group, at [e-mail].

More information on the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council can be found at ridgetrail.org.