• Thurston County, WA
  • $155,000-170,000 annually. Compensation within this range depends on qualifications and experience.
  • Regular, Full-time

Position Description:

Under the direction of Thurston Regional Planning Council’s governing board (“Council”), the Executive Director plans, organizes, and directs the agency’s work programs, including transportation, land use, and environmental planning, to fulfill the agency’s mission. The position develops the agency budget, overseeing member and partner contracts and grants as needed. This position directs administrative operations and planning, including human resources, information technology, and intergovernmental coordination functions. The Executive Director serves as the head of the agency’s management team.

This position is at-will and serves at the pleasure of the Thurston Regional Planning Council.

Essential Job Functions:

Serves Council

Establishes and manages a collaborative and respectful setting for effective regional discussion and decision making. Provides leadership and direction and conducts strategic short and long-range planning programs to formulate and implement the agency’s strategic plan. Oversees research and analysis for studies, reports, and recommendations. Identifies planning challenges and implements appropriate solutions. Develops and implements regional programs.

Provides staff support and acts as advisor to the Council and related committees. Communicates matters
that have implications for the immediate and future welfare of the agency and recommends policies and
procedures accordingly. Supports the Council in crafting its policy direction and implementing that direction. Supports Council in development of the agency’s strategic plan.

Works with existing Council members to encourage their continuing participation in regional activities.
Recruits new member organizations as directed by the Council.

Leads Staff

Provides managerial leadership, mentorship and direction to ensure the effective and efficient operation of the agency in conformity with applicable laws and regulations. Directs the implementation of programs, procedures, and services that support agency policies and goals. Interprets and ensures compliance with applicable rules and regulations.

Directs the overall development, monitoring, and analysis of the budget to ensure the financial soundness
of the agency. Oversees the development and implementation of effective and accurate financial systems,
operations, and procedures.

Oversees the management of the agency’s human resources, including recruitment, retention and
separation. Directs or oversees staff training, professional development and advancement, and ensures
compliance with all applicable laws and rules.

Fosters a collaborative, innovative work environment that provides opportunities for hybrid and remote work.

Establishes an organizational culture characterized by robust communication, psychological safety, high performance expectations and a focus on continuous improvement.

Directs the resolution of inquiries, problems, and complaints. Responds to the most sensitive or complex inquiries or complaints.

Supervises TRPC’s Management Team

Working with the Management Team:

  • Develops a formal work program that supports the agency mission.
  • Develops financial support for the agency.
  • Oversees the preparation of grant applications for federal, state, local, and other funds.
  • Establishes and issues administrative policies as necessary.
  • Directs the supervision and evaluation of staff. Establishes work rules and performance standards.
    Conducts performance evaluations, and initiates and implements disciplinary actions as warranted.
    Resolves grievances and other sensitive personnel matters.

Serves the Community

Promotes the Council’s mission, vision, and values by representing the agency to local, state, and
federal agencies and to community groups to exchange information, coordinate operations, and
provide technical advice.