Executive Director

Executive Director

The Mendocino County Inland Water & Power Commission (IWPC) is seeking an Executive Director. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves as IWPC's chief executive and strategic leader, translating Board direction into action while providing continuity across the organization's initiatives, partnerships, and regional priorities. This is not a traditional utility management role. Supported by experienced technical, legal, financial, and project management professionals, the Executive Director's primary responsibility is to provide leadership, vision, and alignment across complex projects, diverse stakeholders, and evolving regional water challenges. This is a part-time executive position, estimated at 20-30 hours per week. A hybrid arrangement is expected with the majority of tasks performed virtually; however, the Executive Director must have a meaningful presence in Mendocino County and be available in-person for some Commission meetings, stakeholder discussions, community engagement, and other activities where face-to-face participation is important. Some evening meetings and regional travel should be expected. The ideal candidate is a collaborative, strategic leader who thrives in complex, technically challenging environments. They are skilled at building relationships, earning trust among diverse stakeholders, and bringing people together around shared goals. Success in this role requires strong judgment, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to balance competing interests while remaining focused on facts, outcomes, and long-term regional priorities. Rather than serving as the technical expert, the Executive Director will excel at leading through influence, fostering consensus, and guiding initiatives that create lasting value for the communities and partners IWPC serves.