Part-Time Water Policy Executive Director

Brown and Caldwell; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 138,000 - 207,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

401(k) with employer match

Bonus eligibility

Paid time off

Job summary

Brown and Caldwell in Walnut Creek, CA seeks an Affiliate, Executive Director for a part-time leadership role guiding a nonprofit focused on sustainable and reliable urban water supplies. The position currently capably handles 8–12 hours per week and may extend to full-time depending on skills and business needs.

The executive will partner with the Board to set strategic priorities, engage with government and stakeholders, communicate policy directions, and ensure financial and operational

Qualifications

• 15+ years of professional experience in a related role.
• Water industry experience and executive leadership preferred.
• Ability to attend Board/committee meetings across California.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership and strategic direction to support the client organization's mission and long-term objectives.
• Partner with the Board to develop, implement, and advance strategic priorities, goals, and organizational initiatives.
• Serve as a trusted advisor on California water issues, emerging trends, and policy developments.
• Prepare and communicate issue briefs, strategic recommendations, policy principles, and other executive materials to Board members and stakeholders.
• Represent the organization with member agencies, industry associations, regulatory agencies, research organizations, NGOs, and other key stakeholders.
• Facilitate collaboration and consensus-building among diverse stakeholder groups to advance shared objectives.
• Lead Board and committee meetings, fostering engagement and effective decision-making.
• Support financial and operational sustainability through sound stewardship of resources and funding opportunities.
• Represent the client organization at Board meetings, hearings, conferences, and industry events across California.
• Manage and mentor a team, ensuring alignment with mission, vision, values, and strategy.
• Flexibility to adapt to evolving needs.

Skills

Executive leadership

Strategic planning

California water policy

Government/stakeholder relationships

Board relations

Facilitation

Verbal and written communication

Budgeting / financial stewardship

Governance understanding

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

Brown and Caldwell in Walnut Creek, CA seeks an Affiliate, Executive Director for a part-time leadership role guiding a nonprofit focused on sustainable and reliable urban water supplies. The position currently capably handles 8–12 hours per week and may extend to full-time depending on skills and business needs.

The executive will partner with the Board to set strategic priorities, engage with government and stakeholders, communicate policy directions, and ensure financial and operational