Daniel is a global nonprofit executive with more than twenty years of leadership experience advancing ocean stewardship, coastal resilience, and climate adaptation. His career spans nonprofit CEO roles, philanthropy advising, and program development across the international marine sector. As CEO of the Ocean Institute and Sailors for the Sea, Daniel strengthened partnerships, expanded climate-focused education and conservation programs, and secured major philanthropic investment for ocean initiatives. His work in philanthropy with Benefunder and the Laguna Beach Community Foundation further deepened his ability to connect science, donors, and impact-driven climate solutions. At USEPA he received a commendation from the President of the United States for his leadership work on the Bolsa Chica Wetlands Restoration project in Southern California. Recently, he was approved as a Design Poster Presenter, International Federation of Landscape Architects World Congress 2026, Hong Kong.

With research focused on coastal resilience, nature-based solutions, and climate responsive design, Daniel brings a systems based perspective to adaptation planning and environmental leadership. He believes that healthy oceans and coastlines depend on strong communities, informed policy, and collaborative design.