Jim Wunderman Concludes 22-Year Tenure at Bay Area Council, Joins California Forever as Public Affairs Head

Jim Wunderman, the long-serving leader of the Bay Area Council, is stepping down from his role as CEO after 22 years to take on a new position as Head of Public Affairs for California Forever, a controversial project aiming to build a new city in Solano County. The news, initially shared by Jeremy B. White on social media, marks a significant leadership transition for one of the region's most influential business advocacy groups. Wunderman's departure is set for the end of the year, as he transitions to the ambitious megadevelopment.

California Forever, backed by Silicon Valley billionaires including Marc Andreessen and Reid Hoffman, plans to establish a city for 400,000 residents, alongside an advanced manufacturing campus and a shipyard. Wunderman expressed his enthusiasm for the move, stating in his resignation letter that he considers it "the most important initiative in California, in a very long time." He added, > "The notion of producing quality, affordable, dense, market-rate housing and middle wage jobs at scale is so attractive and epitomizes everything we stand for."

During his two-decade tenure at the Bay Area Council, Wunderman was a key advocate for business-friendly policies, influencing initiatives across transportation, housing, and economic development. Kristina Lawson, managing partner at Hanson Bridgett, lauded his impact, noting that "Jim spearheaded or partnered in numerous successful ballot measure campaigns that secured tens of billions of dollars for transportation, affordable housing, early education, climate resilience and healthcare." She emphasized his role in advancing regionalism and broadening the Bay Area's connections.

The California Forever project has garnered both significant support and fierce criticism since its inception. While proponents highlight its potential for job creation and housing solutions, environmental groups and some local residents have voiced concerns over its impact on Solano County's agricultural sector and potential for increased traffic and sprawl. California Forever CEO Jan Sramek welcomed Wunderman, stating that he "has spent his career bringing people together to move California forward."

In light of Wunderman's departure, the Bay Area Council plans to appoint an interim CEO in the coming weeks. The organization has also announced a national search to find a permanent successor to lead the prominent business advocacy group. The transition period will see the council navigate new leadership while continuing its mission to shape the future of the Bay Area.