Joseph Goffman is a seasoned executive and legal expert with over 35 years of leadership in environmental policy, regulatory affairs, and government operations. Throughout his career, he has played a key role in shaping and implementing landmark environmental laws and policies, with a strong focus on air quality, climate change, clean energy, and regulatory compliance. His deep understanding of federal environmental regulations, their economic impacts, and policy frameworks has positioned him as a sought-after advisor for both public and private sector organizations navigating the evolving landscape of environmental governance.

Most recently, Goffman served as Assistant Administrator in the Office of Air and Radiation at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In this role, he led the development and execution of major regulatory initiatives under the Clean Air Act, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, overseeing a multi-billion-dollar portfolio dedicated to clean energy, emissions reduction, and climate resilience. Under his leadership, the EPA advanced critical rulemakings that curbed greenhouse gas emissions, implemented pollution control measures for the power sector, and strengthened environmental standards for industrial and transportation sectors. His ability to balance policy, science, and stakeholder engagement has been instrumental in shaping programs that have long-lasting impacts on public health, environmental protection, and economic development.

Prior to his tenure at the EPA, Goffman held the role of executive director of the environmental and energy law program at Harvard Law School, where he led a team of experts in analyzing and responding to key environmental legal and policy developments. His work at Harvard focused on regulatory developments, energy policy transitions, and strategic legal frameworks that guide the nation’s approach to climate action and sustainability. His deep expertise in legislative and regulatory strategy also stems from his time as Democratic Chief Counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, where he advised on major climate and energy legislation, including emissions trading programs and clean air regulations.

Goffman’s impact on clean energy and environmental governance is further underscored by his previous work as Associate Assistant Administrator for Climate and Senior Counsel at the EPA from 2009 to 2017, where he played a critical role in designing and implementing climate and air quality rules, including the Clean Power Plan and Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. Earlier in his career, he worked extensively on the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, where he helped develop Title IV, the pioneering acid rain emissions trading program, a model that has influenced market-based approaches to pollution control globally.

In addition to his extensive government experience, Goffman spent over a decade with the Environmental Defense Fund, where he developed and advocated for market-based policies to reduce urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. His strategic approach to environmental law and policy has consistently demonstrated an ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders, drive regulatory reforms, and implement large-scale environmental programs.

A respected thought leader and speaker, Goffman has testified before Congress, participated in high-profile environmental panels, and contributed to numerous academic and policy publications on climate regulation, emissions reduction strategies, and clean energy transitions. His work has been published in The New York Times, Case Western Reserve Law Review, and the Penn State Environmental Law Review, among others. His confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate further highlighted his leadership in environmental protection and regulatory policy.

Beyond his government and academic roles, Goffman has served on nonprofit boards, including the Washington Opera (now the Washington National Opera) and Earth Shot, a sustainability-focused advisory group. His passion for clean energy, sustainable development, and regulatory strategy makes him a valuable board candidate for organizations looking to navigate complex environmental policies, enhance sustainability efforts, and drive strategic growth in regulated industries.

Goffman’s industry expertise spans multiple sectors, including auto manufacturing, electric power, oil and gas, clean energy, and chemicals, making him a trusted advisor for businesses facing environmental compliance challenges and opportunities in the clean energy transition. He is industry-agnostic.

A graduate of Yale University, where he earned both his bachelor of arts (magna cum laude) in philosophy and English and his juris doctor, Goffman’s intellectual foundation is rooted in critical thinking, legal analysis, and policy development. His commitment to public service, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative leadership has defined his career and continues to drive his contributions to policy reform, regulatory strategy, and environmental governance.

Outside of his professional life, Goffman enjoys opera and live music of almost all kinds, as well as traveling and hiking with his family. Now actively seeking board and advisory roles, he is eager to apply his extensive experience in environmental policy, regulatory affairs, and operational strategy to help organizations navigate complex regulatory landscapes, enhance sustainability initiatives, and drive innovation in clean energy and climate resilience.

Character: Joseph Goffman is a principled and dedicated leader who prioritizes environmental protection, regulatory integrity, and public service throughout his career.

Knowledge: With over 35 years of expertise in environmental policy, regulatory affairs, and clean energy strategy, he has played a key role in shaping landmark climate and air quality regulations.

Strategic: Goffman has successfully led large-scale regulatory initiatives, balancing policy, science, and stakeholder engagement to drive impactful and sustainable environmental solutions.

Communication: As a respected thought leader and public speaker, he effectively translates complex regulatory issues into actionable insights for policymakers, businesses, and the public.