05/08/2026
Now Recruiting: Chief Executive Officer | First 5 Sonoma County (Santa Rosa, CA)
First 5 Sonoma County is an independent public agency and one of 58 First 5 Commissions across California, directing funding to improve outcomes for young children and families. Their vision is that children in Sonoma County—from the prenatal stage to age five - will develop to their fullest potential, and their mission is to maximize healthy development through equitable support, education, and advocacy.
This is a rare executive opportunity to lead an organization with 20+ years of momentum and approximately $35M in annual revenue, aligning grantmaking, resources, and advocacy with shifting community needs while advancing racial justice and social equity. In addition to Prop. 10 funding, First 5 Sonoma County serves as the countywide administrator of Sonoma County’s Measure I sales tax revenue (approved by voters in 2024) to support child and maternal health and strengthen early care and education and advocacy.
As CEO, you’ll partner closely with the Commission and lead a talented team (approximately 18–20 professionals) to guide implementation of the 2026–2031 Strategic Plan, co-create the future vision for First 5, and build collaborative partnerships across community, government, and philanthropy to maximize impact.
What First 5 Sonoma County is looking for: a strategic, culturally competent, inclusive leader with strong governance instincts, community engagement skill, and the financial acumen to steward public funding in a complex environment.
To apply (by June 1, 2026): Submit a resume + cover letter to [email protected] (Attn: Jen Chelini, Executive Search Consultant, Leap Solutions).
