Search launched for new State Bar chief executive

The State Bar announced last month it has begun a national search for a new executive director to lead the 227,000-member organization that oversees admissions, regulation and discipline of lawyers. The new bar chief, who will report to the 23-member board of governors, will succeed Judy Johnson, who is retiring.

The search, led by The Hawkins Company of Los Angeles, seeks a seasoned professional and demonstrated leader with a track record of success, proven accomplishments and performance in managing a public, private or nonprofit enterprise of similar size and complexity to the State Bar, which has 500 employees and a $140 million general and special fund budget.

State Bar President Howard Miller said he hopes to fill the job by mid-September. Johnson is scheduled to leave the bar early next year.

The executive director will be expected to provide superior leadership and management in board relations, external relations, strategic leadership, operations management and organization. Other qualifications include:

• A minimum of 10 years of senior-level management responsibility;
• Outstanding management and leadership skills and familiarity with the legal profession;
• Experience managing a large, complex organization with an elected board; and
• Ideally, a master’s degree in business or public administration.

Qualified individuals may submit a statement of interest and resumé, including education, positions held, current salary and special qualifications, to Bill Hawkins at bill@thehawkinscompany.com. Materials received by July 23 will receive first consideration. Initial interviews are scheduled to take place in late August, but the position is open until filled.