Executive Director (San Francisco)

The State Bar of California (State Bar) is currently seeking a seasoned executive and demonstrated leader to serve as its Executive Director for a four-year term with the possibility of term extensions. The State Bar is a public corporation within the judicial branch of government. Its mission is to protect the public and includes the primary functions of licensing, regulation and discipline of attorneys; the advancement of the ethical and competent practice of law; and support of efforts for greater access to, and inclusion in, the legal system. The State Bar serves the people of California through careful oversight of the legal profession. The State Bar licenses more than 270,000 attorneys, annually investigates approximately 16,000 complaints of attorney misconduct, and distributes over $100 million in grants to legal aid organizations.

A track record of success, proven accomplishments, and superior performance in managing a public, private, or nonprofit enterprise of similar size and complexity to the State Bar are highly desirable qualities. Candidates must be licensed to practice law in California and have exemplary people skills and organizational management and leadership skills. Qualified candidates will possess the knowledge and professional competence required to effectively lead the State Bar’s programs in support of its mission, in a highly political environment with multiple stakeholders and a dynamic governance structure. Candidates must possess a minimum of ten years of senior-level management responsibility, including experience leading change initiatives and building “best in class” organizations.

The annual salary range for the Executive Director is $253,485 - $379,928 and placement within the range will depend on the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience. The selected candidate may also elect to work from either the State Bar’s San Francisco or Los Angeles offices. If you are interested in this outstanding opportunity, please visit to apply online. Should you have any questions, please contact Valerie Phillips at (916) 784-9080. Filing Deadline: July 14, 2025