Aspen Personnel Service is working with a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth through a variety of community programs. We are seeking a professional, passionate Executive Director to lead the organization in strategy, operations, and overall performance.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
Partner with the Board of Directors to lead long-term strategic planning and organizational direction.
Develop and implement goals aligned with the organizations mission and community needs.
Ensure timely and transparent communication with the Board and support effective governance.
Monitor relevant legislation and emerging trends in childcare and youth development.
Represent the organization with local, regional, and national child and youth organizations.
Organizational & Staff Leadership
Lead a dynamic team, including leadership, program directors, and administrative staff.
Oversee hiring, performance management, compensation, and HR compliance with Washington employment law.
Foster a workplace culture grounded in accountability, inclusion, and professional development.
Promote a learning organization and equity-centered leadership.
Program Oversight & Compliance
Ensure all programs meet or exceed licensing, safety, and quality standards per the Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
Guide the development of innovative programming for school-age and early childhood education.
Use data and community feedback to continuously evaluate and improve program impact.
Community Engagement
Act as a visible and approachable representative within the community and among families.
Build relationships with local leaders, partner agencies, funders, and families.
Promote a safe and welcoming space for all children and families.
Financial Management
Oversee budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and internal controls.
Ensure compliance with GAAP and sound fiscal policies, in partnership with the Board Finance Committee.
Maintain healthy cash flow and financial reserves for long-term sustainability.
Fundraising & Resource Development
Plan and execute fundraising strategies, including donor cultivation, events, grants, and partnerships.
Supervise development staff, volunteers, and contractors; involve the Board in fundraising efforts.
Develop marketing and branding strategies to enhance visibility and donor engagement.
Required Qualifications
Financial oversight experience, including budgeting and GAAP compliance.
Knowledge of HR management and Washington State employment law.
Minimum of two years working with children in early learning, plus six months of administrative or management experience.
Familiarity with Washington childcare licensing (WAC).
Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal, written, digital); fluency in English required. Multilingual candidates encouraged to apply.
Completion of all preservice training: Child abuse & neglect recognition & reporting, emergency preparedness for early learning, serving children experiencing homelessness & medication administration
Commitment to ongoing professional development.
Pre-employment requirements: Proof of employment eligibility, TB test results, immunization records including MMR and COVID (or approved exception), valid Food Handlers card
Valid drivers license with a clean driving record (5 years).
First Aid/CPR and Bloodborne Pathogens certification within two weeks of hire.
Ability to pass background checks (criminal, motor vehicle, and child abuse), including DCYF clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
Four-year degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or a related field, or possession of the Washington State ECE Certificate (or department-approved equivalent via MERIT).
Directors without this credential are expected to pursue it within five years of hire.
Two years of experience in early learning and six months of admin/management experience.
Leadership background in childcare, youth development, or nonprofit education.
Coursework or certification in nonprofit management, business, or public leadership.
Experience mentoring cross-functional teams.
Knowledge of Spokane community resources and stakeholder engagement.
Commitment to culturally responsive, inclusive practices; experience with diverse populations.
Schedule
Full-time MondayFriday (Occasional events outside standard hours).
Compensation
$90,000 $100,000 DOE
Benefits
Health Care Coverage Starts on first day of full-time employment.
Paid Time Off (PTO):
Four weeks after 90 days of employment
Accrual based on anniversary: 12 years: 4 weeks (160 hours), 34 years: 5 weeks (200 hours), 5+ years: 6 weeks (240 hours)
Retirement Up to 3% employer match on Simple IRA contributions.
Annual Bonus Eligible for yearly performance-based bonus.