Ocean Job Board
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Chief Executive Officer
Seafood Watch
Monterey, CA, USA
USD 525k-625k / year
Posted on May 9, 2025
Russell Reynolds Associates has been exclusively engaged to lead this search. Given the need for confidentiality throughout this process, prospective candidates are invited to reach out directly to RRA’s search consultants at MBACEO@russellreynolds.com with a resume and brief explanation of interest. All nominations and expressions of interest are welcome and should be sent to the Russell Reynolds team. All inquiries and discussions will be considered strictly confidential.
***This role is being recruited by a third party agency, Russell Reynolds Associates. To be considered for this role, you must apply directly at MBACEO@russellreynolds.com. Applications submitted to the Monterey Bay Aquarium website will not be considered.***
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is poised and ready, building on its legacy of fearless innovation and leadership, to create exceptional experiences that inspire, connect, and promote action for ocean conservation. With a steadfast commitment to the health of the Earth’s ocean and the communities that depend on it, the Aquarium is seeking a dynamic and visionary CEO to lead the organization into its next phase of growth and impact, charting a course forward to be ever more effective while always centering a commitment to its mission, vision, and values. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is unlike any other aquarium in the world and has a unique opportunity to advance ocean conservation under the leadership of its next CEO.
Since opening 40 years ago, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has helped people experience and appreciate the ocean, deepening their understanding of its complex and fragile nature and taking action to protect its future. Healthy ocean ecosystems are critical to enabling life on Earth to exist, and our very survival depends on them. There is much to celebrate in the progress the Monterey Bay Aquarium has made over the past decades, but winning the race to slow the pace of climate change and human impact on the ocean demands more of all of us. This is an opportunity to step up. Using the trusted voice and strong brand they have built over time, the Monterey Bay Aquarium will harness its momentum to transform public understanding and action.
Under Julie Packard’s leadership since its founding, the Monterey Bay Aquarium has accomplished extraordinary programmatic, organizational, and scientific growth and achievement. The Aquarium has a remarkable heritage and, at the same time, the opportunity for future impact is significant and the ocean’s need for a bold champion has never been greater. The next CEO will have the opportunity to lead the Aquarium forward as it charts a course through this historic period of change and opportunity, and to lead into the next frontier of innovation for the future of the ocean.
ABOUT THE MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is an internationally recognized, mission-driven organization dedicated to advancing ocean conservation on a global scale. The Aquarium is a leader in science education and a voice for ocean conservation through extraordinary experiences and exhibitions, as well as comprehensive programs to promote science-based conservation solutions and public policy. Everything they do works in concert to protect the future of this blue planet. The Aquarium engages more than two million visitors and program participants annually.
"After 40 years, the dream that sparked the creation of Monterey Bay Aquarium stands: We wanted to inspire people to fall in love with ocean life. The Aquarium will continue to amaze and delight families from all over the world, spark a love of science and nature in young people, offer a sanctuary for wonder and reflection, and become an experience infused in the lifetime memories of millions of people."
Founded by a group of marine scientists, local residents, and members of the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a stunning showcase for the habitats and ocean life of one of the world's richest marine regions. The Aquarium’s mission is more urgent now than ever before. Worldwide, the ocean is in peril, its wildlife and habitats threatened by an ever-increasing pace of human activity. The Monterey Bay Aquarium believes that humankind can turn this tide. They envision a world in which the ocean is healthy, and people are committed to protecting the integrity of Earth's life-sustaining natural systems. To make this vision a reality, the Aquarium helps people know more, care more, and do more on behalf of the ocean. The Aquarium’s exhibits and programs introduce people from all walks of life to the wonders of the marine world, from Monterey Bay to the vast ocean beyond. As a leader in ocean conservation, they extend their impact by reaching beyond the Aquarium’s walls to inspire the public and policymakers to act on behalf of the ocean. The Monterey Bay Aquarium welcomes approximately 2 million annual visitors, has an annual operating budget of $113 million, and an endowment valued at $375 million. The Aquarium’s next CEO will be supported by a wide array of assets, including extraordinary facilities and real estate holdings, a cohesive and passionate Board of Trustees with 17 members, a talented and dedicated staff of over 500. The organization also benefits from close collaboration with its independent partner institution, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI), a world leader in ocean research and technology, bringing together engineers and scientists to develop better tools, systems and methods for deep-ocean study.
VISION & CORE VALUES
The Monterey Bay Aquarium envisions a future where the ocean flourishes and people thrive in a just and equitable world. They create extraordinary experiences that inspire awe and wonder, champion science-based solutions, and connect people across the planet to protect and restore the ocean. A defining feature of the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s work is a set of core values, which are exemplified in its daily work. This leader will have the opportunity to align their own vision to the vital work of advancing the Aquarium’s impact.
IMPACT
Make waves
From small ripples to big swells, MBA sets change in motion for a healthy ocean. They learn from their efforts, even when they make mistakes, and adjust as their understanding deepens.
HOPE
Immerse yourself in hope
MBA finds joy and inspiration in the beauty of Monterey Bay and the global ocean. A love for the ocean propels them. Even though this blue planet faces serious threats, they have fierce hope. MBA believes that humans can work together to heal the ocean and make a better future.
INTEGRITY
Hold fast to principles
Integrity anchors MBA and keeps the organization steady in turbulent seas. When they walk their talk, they build honest and authentic connections.
INNOVATION
Surge ahead
From the Aquarium’s beginnings, currents of innovation have pushed them forward. They bubble up bold ideas and allow creativity to flow. Imagination and experimentation push them in new directions.
EQUITY
A rising tide lifts us all
Everyone begins their journey from a different starting point, with unique advantages and obstacles. Injustice and oppression — both historic and ongoing — affect some people more deeply than others. MBA recognizes these differences and work to address inequities. To find lasting solutions in support of environmental justice, they need and value diverse perspectives and voices.
FOCUS
From sea otters to seaweeds, Monterey Bay Aquarium’s unique oceanfront location and timeless galleries bring the wonders of the ocean to life for its visitors. But beyond their exhibits, they are transforming what it means to be an aquarium.
Inspiring & creating wonder
The Aquarium's world-class exhibits and breathtaking scenery instill a love of the ocean in its visitors. With over 200 exhibits and 80,000 plants and animals, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean. Behind each exhibit, a dedicated team of experts is working to care for the animals and protect their ocean homes. They are innovating in the field of animal medicine and advancing conservation science. See more
Acting for the ocean
Monterey Bay Aquarium’s scientists are rebuilding sea otter populations, transforming fisheries and aquaculture around the world, and working to protect California’s ocean. Their policy experts are moving the needle on legislation to address climate change and end plastic pollution. Their Seafood Watch team is shifting the global marketplace to make seafood more sustainable. See more
Educating young ocean leaders
In education, Monterey Bay Aquarium’s mission is to elevate and equip young changemakers to innovate solutions for a thriving ocean. They believe young people are a necessary and powerful force for addressing the issues that face the ocean. Their life-changing educator and youth development programs are helping young people grow confidence in their voices as ocean conservation leaders. See more
THE ROLE
The Monterey Bay Aquarium has begun its search for a strategic leader with a deep passion for ocean conservation and a spirit of innovation and adaptability who will guide the organization into its next chapter. The Chief Executive Officer has responsibility for managing the strategic, scientific, experiential and programmatic, and financial sustainability and excellence of the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The Aquarium’s next CEO will lead with an entrepreneurial mindset, with curiosity and humility, and with enthusiastic ambition to create memorable experiences that inspire, connect, and promote action to drive ocean conservation.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s next Chief Executive Officer will:
- Advance the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s strategic direction and communicate a compelling vision that inspires and motivates constituents to deepen their level of engagement with – and support of – the Aquarium.
- Execute priorities and goals which amplify the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s core areas of mission focus across exhibitions and experiences, conservation and science, and education, ensuring the organization’s dynamism and uncovering opportunities for further excellence and impact.
- Ensure accountability for effectiveness and alignment with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s core values.
- Provide clear leadership for the team and foster an equitable and thriving organization with people at the center.
- Nurture a high-performing, positive, and inclusive culture and recruit, develop, and retain strong and diverse talent, while ensuring that organizational objectives and defined goals are accomplished and celebrated. Live with and model the values of humility, integrity, and authenticity as a leader.
- Ensure the Aquarium continues to create innovative experiences that inspire, connect, and promote action, leveraging extraordinary and complex facilities that are expertly maintained.
- Display entrepreneurial vigor, adaptability, and fiscal prudence in catalyzing revenue growth to advance the Aquarium’s mission, evaluating financial investment and optimizing impact. Work closely with senior management in finance to implement sound fiscal management and assure financial sustainability.
- Lead a robust fundraising program to grow contributed revenue from individuals, foundations, and corporations. Work with staff to facilitate new strategic partnerships and increase funding.
- Partner effectively from a nonpartisan position with governments, business, and stakeholders. Work across the aisle to protect the ocean for future generations through effective policy and action to address climate change, end plastic pollution, protect ecosystems, improve seafood sustainability, and beyond.
- Activate communities – locally, nationally, and globally – around climate resilience and approach conservation through the lens of environmental justice, advocating for both a healthy ocean and healthy communities worldwide.
- Draw from their proven, authentic, and tangible commitment and set of experiences to advance equity as an imperative part of achieving the Aquarium’s mission, aiming for a high collaboration across teams and a strong and cohesive culture.
- Develop a highly effective, transparent, and collaborative partnership with the Board of Trustees.
CEO SUCCESS PROFILE
The Monterey Bay Aquarium seeks a passionate, innovative, and adaptable leader with a proven track record of results in managing complex organizations, building and leading high-performing teams, advancing financial sustainability, and providing exceptional external leadership. The Chief Executive Officer will have outstanding communication skills and the ability to represent the Aquarium effectively across a wide range of audiences and communities, including local school children, global ocean scientists, corporate and policy leaders, and everyone in between. They will have the skills needed to recruit, retain, and inspire an exceptional team, and will serve as both a motivator and consensus builder with endless curiosity and an insatiable appetite to listen, learn, and built trust. They will bring a strong track record of leading organizations to strong financial outcomes, including with regards to both earned and contributed revenue. The next CEO will show a deeply held passion for the vision of Monterey Bay Aquarium and an authentic commitment to its mission to inspire ocean conservation.
CRITICAL PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES AND COMPETENCIES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
Strategic, Passionate, & Inclusive Leadership
The CEO will be able to articulate an inspiring vision for Monterey Bay Aquarium and align others with the organization’s strategy. They will bring an entrepreneurial and adaptable approach to developing new, innovative ideas that will position the Aquarium for the future. The CEO will share the Aquarium’s belief that equity is imperative to achieving the mission of the organization. They will have a demonstrated track record of inclusive leadership, will lead with curiosity, integrity, and authenticity, and will build trust effectively with stakeholders internally and externally.
Management of Team & Financial Resources
The Aquarium’s next CEO will bring a strong track record of team management at scale, including inspiring, attracting, retaining, and developing talent. They will bring people together and foster a culture of both inclusion and accountability. They will have experience developing and managing complex operations, budgets, and driving financial sustainability. They will be decisive in working with leadership to set priorities, delegate responsibilities, create a collaborative culture, and allocate resources to ensure results.
Communicating & Building Relationships
The ideal candidate will possess the capacity to compellingly articulate the Aquarium’s mission, vision, and strategy to wide audiences regionally, nationally, and globally as well as within the organization. A natural problem-solver, skilled in connecting with and working collaboratively with diverse constituencies, the CEO will demonstrate the humility and empathy necessary to build trust effectively and bring others along with them.
Commitment to Ocean Conservation & Science
The next CEO of the Monterey Bay Aquarium will bring a commitment to science-based conservation, scientific integrity, and science education. They will be highly collaborative and eager to partner with scientists, policy[1]makers, educators, businesses, and others locally, nationally, and globally. They will demonstrate the capacity to exemplify the Aquarium’s vision and, with a passionate belief in conservation, the ability to lead the team to produce exceptional results in inspiring and advancing ocean conservation.
Revenue Generation & Fundraising
The CEO will demonstrate the ability to grow and diversify the Aquarium’s financial support through both fundraising and earned revenue streams at a significant scale. They will have experience identifying, recruiting, and cultivating philanthropic supporters, making significant asks to secure major gifts, and pursuing entrepreneurial revenue opportunities to maximize impact and financial sustainability. They will bring an ability to advance and grow an already large and complex membership program.
Executing for Results
The ideal candidate will be able to confidently lead the team in executing the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s vision in an environment of ambiguity. The CEO will have an entrepreneurial mindset and be both collaborative and decisive in setting high standards across all aspects of the Aquarium’s work. They will partner with staff to set realistic goals and plans that are achievable and possess the clear capacity to assess the appropriate pace.
COMPENSATION & CONTACT
COMPENSATION & LOCATION
This position is based in Monterey, California, requiring on-site presence. The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s goal is to compensate for this position at a competitive level. The estimated salary for this position is approximately $525,000-625,000, although the salary and total compensation of the finalist selected for this role will be determined based on various factors, including, but not limited to, scope of role, level of experience and stature in the industry, accomplishments, internal equity, budget, and subject to Fair Market Value evaluation. The compensation range listed is a good faith determination of potential base compensation as a component of the total compensation for the role at the time of this job advertisement and may be modified in the future.
CONTACT
Russell Reynolds Associates has been exclusively engaged to lead this search. Given the need for confidentiality throughout this process, prospective candidates are invited to reach out directly to RRA’s search consultants at MBACEO@russellreynolds.com with a resume and brief explanation of interest. All nominations and expressions of interest are welcome and should be sent to the Russell Reynolds team. All inquiries and discussions will be considered strictly confidential.