LAFCO of Monterey County Executive Officer

Monterey County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) is seeking an LAFCO – Executive Officer . The Executive Officer leads a small, high-performing professional team and works closely with elected officials, city and county leaders, special districts, state agencies, and engaged community stakeholders. The work is technical, strategic, and intensely human, requiring credibility, diplomacy, and the confidence to stand firmly on law and policy when it matters most. The ideal candidate is a seasoned public sector professional who combines technical land use or service planning knowledge with exceptional political acumen and emotional intelligence.

Successful candidates will bring:
• Strong understanding of California land use, local government, and CEQA processes.
• Experience working with or alongside cities, counties, and special districts.
• Skill in navigating complex political environments while remaining grounded in law, policy, and professional integrity.
• Ability to present complex information clearly to decision-makers and the public.
• Confidence to offer candid, defensible recommendations, even when they are not the easiest path.
• A collaborative leadership style that builds trust across diverse viewpoints.

Above all, this role calls for a principled, thoughtful leader who listens first, analyzes carefully, and acts with courage and fairness.