Nonprofit
Executive Director
Details
Description
About I3
The Intelligent Infrastructure Institute is a new, nonpartisan organization focused on how infrastructure systems are built, how they operate in practice, and how they can be strengthened over time. Our goal is to understand how these systems actually perform, what it takes for them to work well over time, and how to translate that understanding into practical strategies for reform. We do this by building public understanding, aligning stakeholders, and developing clear, repeatable approaches to change.
Our work is centered on energy infrastructure in California. We focus on how policy, public investment, and regulatory systems shape real-world outcomes, and on translating that complexity into clear, actionable insight for partners, policymakers, and the public. This work requires people who can turn complex systems into practical strategy and build alignment across the institutions that shape and deliver these systems. Over time, the Institute may expand into other infrastructure systems.
The Opportunity
This is a founding Executive Director role. You will set strategy, build relationships, and help define what I3 becomes. The Board and leadership team have already done substantive groundwork. This is not a blank slate, but we are early. You will have the space to apply your expertise and shape both the organization and the team needed to execute the work. In your first 90 days, you will assess what has been developed, spend time in the field, and translate that into a clear three-year strategic direction. From there, you will lead execution.
This role requires someone who can work through ambiguity, make decisions with incomplete information, and stay focused on what is actually needed to move the work forward. Success will depend on your ability to earn trust quickly and work effectively with people who expect rigor and clarity.
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
Qualifications
- 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
- Must live within the state of California or within reasonably regular travel distance. Ideally, candidates are based in California. While our team is remote, the Executive Director and key staff are expected to maintain a strong in-state presence, with frequent travel to key locations across California for meetings, conferences, and events. Please anticipate regular travel both within and outside of California.
Process + Start Date
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with a six-week application window. Candidates will move through the process on a rolling basis as well, including an introductory conversation, a short written exercise, and interviews with the hiring team and Board of Directors. We aim to move candidates through the process efficiently while ensuring a thoughtful and thorough evaluation.
The anticipated start date is May–June 2026, with flexibility depending on how candidates progress through the process and individual availability.
Benefits
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.
Level of Language Proficiency
Professional fluency in English is required. Spanish proficiency or familiarity with other languages commonly spoken across California communities is a plus.
Location
Associated Location
Apply to This Job
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.
