The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) is seeking a mission-driven executive to serve as its next General Manager. This is a defining leadership opportunity to steward one of the nation’s most significant park systems while guiding the organization through an important period of transition and renewed focus.

The General Manager will lead a complex, values-based public organization entrusted with protecting rare natural resources and biodiverse open space, preserving lands for future generations, expanding equitable access to parks and trails, and advancing science-informed stewardship to support climate change resilience across a diverse two-county region.  

Success in this role requires steady leadership, sound judgment, the ability to build strong partnerships with the Board of Directors, employees, labor organizations, community stakeholders, and the public, as well as, demonstrated parks or land conservation experience.

Reporting directly to the seven-member Board of Directors, the General Manager will be expected to lead with steadiness and perspective, guiding the EBRPD through evolving priorities while maintaining focus on long-term stewardship and service. This includes working collaboratively with the Board on significant  includes working collaboratively with the Board on significant initiatives, fostering constructive labor relationships, supporting a positive and accountable workplace culture, and ensuring that complex issues are approached thoughtfully, communicated clearly, and aligned with the District’s mission and values.

The General Manager also serves as the District’s primary ambassador, representing EBRPD with credibility and authenticity in regional, state, and national forums; advancing legislative and funding strategies; and maintaining productive relationships with partner agencies, advocacy organizations, and community groups. 

Under the policy direction of a seven-member elected Board of Directors, the General Manager serves as the chief executive officer of EBRPD, with overall responsibility for leading one of the nation’s most complex and highly regarded park systems.

This role calls for a leader who can balance day-to-day operational excellence with long-term strategic leadership, while navigating a highly visible public environment. The General Manager is responsible for implementing Board policy; directing and coordinating the District’s divisions; overseeing a large, diverse workforce; and ensuring the effective stewardship of public lands, facilities, and financial resources.

The ideal candidate is committed to environmental stewardship, equity, and public trust. Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in management, business, public administration, or a related field, along with at least ten (10) years of public-sector management experience, including five (5) years at the senior management level in a large, multi-function, multi-funded organization. Experience leading parks or park systems is strongly preferred, as is experience reporting to an elected governing body.

Successful candidates will demonstrate the following leadership competencies, grounded in strong governance partnership and transparency:

• Strategic Vision and Execution: Articulates a clear long-term direction aligned with mission and Board policy and translates priorities into action.

• Board Partnership and Governance Acumen: Works effectively with an elected Board through clear communicates, thoughtful options and transparently engagement on significant issues.

• Labor and People Leadership: Leads large, diverse workforces through change with a constructive, respectful approach to labor relations.

• Judgment and Problem-Solving: Navigates complex issues with sound judgment and the ability to balance competing interests and long-term impacts.

• Public Presence and External Relations: Serves as a credible ambassador; builds strong partnerships with agencies, advocacy groups, funders, and the public.

• Organizational and Culture Leadership: Builds trust, strengthens management teams, and fosters a collaborative, accountable workplace culture.

• Financial and Operational Stewardship: Oversees complex budgets, capital programs, and operations with rigor, transparency, and sustainability.

• Parks & Land Stewardship Expertise: Knowledge of park systems, land acquisition, preservation, conservation, and stewardship practices supporting biodiversity and responsible public access.

Application Instructions and Supplemental Information

The Board anticipates making an appointment to the position following final interviews and completion of a comprehensive reference and background check.