Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Director

Overview

The Office of the County Executive is responsible for implementing the policy direction of the Marin County Board of Supervisors and supporting the effective delivery of public services across 22 departments. The office provides leadership on countywide initiatives, coordinates interdepartmental and cross-jurisdictional programs. Our work includes advancing the Board’s strategic priorities, overseeing the County’s $865 million budget, and leading cross-cutting efforts in housing, climate, equity, emergency preparedness, homelessness, and more.

The County of Marin’s Climate Program is a new function within the Office of the County Executive – part of the broader reorganization approved by the Board of Supervisors in 2025. The Sustainability and Climate Adaptation Director will lead this countywide effort to accelerate climate action, coordinate adaptation planning, and embed sustainability principles across all County operations – and in the community in partnership with external agencies.

The Director will oversee the existing Sustainability Team, which leads Marin’s comprehensive greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction work – including promoting renewable energy in coordination with local utilities and implementers; encouraging green building and businesses; reducing emissions from transportation; and improving energy efficiency of private and public properties across the County. The position also oversees the County’s Sea Level Rise (SLR) initiatives, including a governance and funding framework to strengthen coordination among jurisdictions and advance long-term resilience investments.

The role involves working with other County Departments to oversee the Regional Shoreline Adaptation Plan (RASP) processes. The Director will be responsible for hiring 2-3 planning staff to support this effort. Working collaboratively with County departments, cities and towns, regional agencies, and Marin’s nonprofit and environmental partners, the Director will serve as a central leader uniting local efforts to combat climate change and prepare and protect Marin’s communities, economy, and natural landscapes.

This is a defining leadership role for a big thinker who can connect the dots across policy, implementation, and partnerships. The Climate Director will represent the County Executive and Board of Supervisors in leading a forward-looking, equity-driven climate agenda – turning broad goals into measurable action. The position combines high-level strategic planning with grassroots coordination, public engagement, and interagency collaboration.

This position works full time on-site in the historic Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Civic Center, with flexibility for remote work one day per week. For more information, please view the Recruitment Brochure.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the work of the Sustainability Team and Sea Level Rise Unit, integrating GHG mitigation and adaptation strategies across departments and community initiatives.

• Oversee and drive development of the RSAP process.

• Convene and facilitate coordination among County departments, cities and towns, special districts, community-based organizations, and regional/state/federal partners. Lead implementation of the County’s Climate Action Plan, tracking progress and ensuring alignment with regional, state, and federal goals.

• Oversee governance, policy, and funding strategies for countywide sea level rise response.

• Represent the County Executive in regional and statewide climate forums and partnerships.

• Manage and pursue grants, philanthropic partnerships, and funding opportunities to support sustainability and adaptation projects.

• Communicate progress and challenges to the County Executive, Board of Supervisors, and the public through reports, presentations, and community engagement.

• Supervise staff, consultants, and interdepartmental teams with a focus on collaboration and professional development.

The Highly Qualified Candidate

The ideal candidate is a visionary and collaborative leader who understands that meaningful climate action in Marin depends on cooperation between jurisdictions, sectors, and communities. They bring deep knowledge…