• Olympia, WA
  • $150,000 to $190,000
  • Regular, Full-time
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About the Council

The Skagit Council of Governments (SCOG) is a voluntary organization of local governments whose purpose is to foster a cooperative effort in resolving problems, policies and plans that are common to the membership and region. The SCOG Board of Directors is the governing body of SCOG, and is comprised of elected officials from the following jurisdictions:

  • City of Anacortes
  • City of Burlington
  • City of Mount Vernon
  • City of Sedro Woolley
  • Port of Anacortes
  • Skagit Transit
  • Swinomish Indian
  • Tribal Community
  • Samish Indian Nation
  • Skagit County
  • Skagit PUD
  • Town of Concrete
  • Town of Hamilton
  • Town of La Conner
  • Town of Lyman

SCOG connects Skagit County’s leaders to build a stronger Skagit region and plan for future growth. As Skagit County’s federal- and state-designated transportation planning organization, SCOG coordinates decision making and policy development in transportation and regional growth management. Made up of 15 local and tribal jurisdictions, SCOG works with partner agencies to administer programs and develop long-term solutions for the region’s challenges. The SCOG Board of Directors meets to discuss regional issues and make administrative decisions regarding the Skagit Council of Governments.

About the Position:

Under the direction of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director plans, organizes, and directs the agency’s work programs to fulfill the agency mission.

  • Provides leadership and direction to ensure the effective and efficient operation of SCOG. Oversees the implementation of programs, procedures, and services that support the agency’s strategic plan
  • Plans, organizes, and directs the planning activities of the agency. Identifies planning challenges and develops and implementsregional programs.
  • Provides planning leadership and direction and conducts strategic short and long-range planning programs to formulate the goals and objectives for the agency. Oversees research and analysis for
    studies, reports, and recommendations.
  • Provides a discussion forum for local and state officials and other interested parties on common regional issues.
  • Serves as a bridge builder who can navigate and unite different community values: agriculture,
    industry, conservation, tribal customs and small town and rural cultures.
  • Directs the overall development, monitoring, and analysis of the budget to assure the
    financial soundness of the agency. Oversees the development and implementation of effective
    and accurate financial systems, operations, and procedures.
  • Represents the agency to local, state, and federal agencies, and to community groups, to exchange
    information, coordinate operations, provide technical advice, and promote the agency and its services.
  • Oversees the preparation of grant applications for federal, state and local funds. Reviews applications in light of regional goals and policies.
  • Provides guidance for the effective management of the agency’s human resources program, including performance evaluation, talent management, employee engagement, total compensation, coaching and staff development.
  • Establishes and monitors metrics and performance standards.

The Ideal Candidate:

For this important role, the Board seeks a credible and unifying leader who is energetic, visionary and effective. Candidates should demonstrate strengths in both external relations and high-level internal management, with an ability to balance the two. In addition, a big picture thinker who motivates others by articulating a clear and inclusive vision. The ideal candidate must be able to promote collaboration on a region-wide basis and serve as a key facilitator with elected leaders and business, labor, tribes and non-profit leaders. The candidate will be ethical and transparent with the ability to earn trust by operating with integrity – particularly in tight- knit agricultural and sovereign communities.

Desirable Qualifications:

Ten years of increasingly responsible experience working in public policy development, intergovernmental relations, urban and regional planning, transportation planning, environmental planning, or related fields, including demonstrated history of grant preparation and oversight, as well as leveraging new resources.

A minimum of four years of successful experience managing and leading high-performing professionals.
A bachelor’s degree in Urban/Regional Planning, Public or Business Administration, Government,
Transportation Management, Environmental Studies, Political Science, or a related field. An advanced
degree and executive management training are preferred.

Compensation and Benefits:

The annual salary range for this position is $150,000 to $190,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

SCOG offers a comprehensive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and financial security of its employees. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, participation in the Washington State Retirement System (PERS), paid vacation and sick leave, and 12 paid holidays per year. Employees also have access to professional development opportunities and a flexible work schedule to support work life balance

Apply Here