Job Details

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 organization's 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.
• 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.
• 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 Handler's card
• Valid driver's 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 Monday–Friday (Occasional events outside standard hours).

Compensation

• 90,000 – $100,000 DOE
• 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 : 1–2 years : 4 weeks (160 hours), 3–4 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.