Executive Director

Health Access, comprised of Health Access Foundation, a 501(c)3, and Health Access California, a 501(c)4, a consumer advocacy coalition advocating for more accessible, equitable, affordable, and quality healthcare for all Californians, seeks a bold and strategic leader, builder, advocate, and visionary to serve as its next Executive Director.

Founded in 1987, Health Access was created toward the goal of quality, affordable, equitable health care for all by building a broad coalition of member organizations representing California's diverse communities. Today, Health Access is one of the preeminent consumer advocacy coalitions in the country, a statewide leader and recognized voice in California representing health care consumers and promoting health policies toward securing and expanding coverage, protecting patients, holding the industry accountable for quality, equity, and lower costs, and encouraging a healthier state, through successful campaigns like #Health4All, #Care4AllCA, and others. By building a successful and diverse coalition of dozens of member organizations across California, Health Access has advanced policies through direct lobbying and advocacy, research, organizing, and public education, working for broad and bold solutions while also ensuring that the unique needs and experiences of their diverse constituents are reflected and responded to. In that spirit, as a host of the California LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network, Health Access has also supported advocacy and coalition-building toward advancing LGBTQ health. 

With health care in the crosshairs under another Trump administration, California has begun protecting consumers from potential federal attacks on care by codifying Affordable Care Act protections into state law, banning the sale of junk insurance plans, and continuing to keep the state’s marketplace, Covered California, open and accessible. However, many of these protections remain at risk and will require continued advocacy and action to defend the health care of millions of Californians. Health Access will continue to be a leading voice in ensuring Californians are able to receive access to quality and affordable care while protecting the needs of the most vulnerable, including LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities which have been singled out in federal proposals.

In this context, Health Access seeks an Executive Director committed—more than ever—to advocating for the needs of consumers, poised to expand the coalition to reflect the needs of diverse communities, and driven by a deep passion for the organization's mission. During a critical moment for health care in the United States, the Executive Director will guide the organization by providing visionary leadership, as well as by enacting a strategic plan that will promote the success of the organization, its members, and California consumers. The next Executive Director will have the opportunity to continue the success of Health Access as a state model in advancing accessibility and affordability for all Californians, not limited to but especially the most vulnerable populations. 

To be successful, the Executive Director will be expected to address the following key opportunities and challenges:  

• Champion a vision for Health Access as the leading consumer advocacy coalition in California;
• Achieve strategic, tangible, and measurable policy wins that advance health access for all;
• Cultivate a broad and inclusive coalition that reflects the diverse needs of consumers;
• Collaborate closely and effectively with both Boards of Directors;
• Facilitate strong internal operations and ensure the ongoing financial vitality of the organization.

Though the final salary will depend on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, the estimated salary range for the position is $185,000-$205,000. Health Access offers excellent benefits, including medical, vision, dental, retirement, and other coverage. 

Health Access staff are located in Sacramento and Los Angeles. The Executive Director is expected to spend at least three days a week in Sacramento, both in meetings and engaging partners, and with staff.

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. For best consideration, please apply by February 17, 2025. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and CVs with cover letters should be sent below. Electronic submission of materials is strongly encouraged.

Cati Mitchell-Crossley is leading this search with Carley Davenport, Luciano Zuniga, and Thea Kosmack.

Promoting diversity is integral to the mission of Health Access. Health Access seeks applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, or physical or mental disability. Health Access embraces equality of opportunity and treatment for all employees in all employment matters.