Executive Director - Center for Independence - Hagel Executive Search

Job Description

The Executive Director (ED) of Center for Independence is responsible for leading the strategic growth and direction of the organization as well as the successful day-to-day operations of the Center’s programming and services. The ED directly supervises the management team, oversees all other staff positions, and reports to the Board of Directors (Board). The ideal candidate for ED needs to possess the following characteristics:

Servant Leader – as the leader of a talented and committed staff team and a dynamic Board of Directors the new ED must be able to articulate a clear vision for the organization while leading and managing for success and mission expansion. 

Community Advocate – as the primary spokesperson for the organization the ED must be a visible and vocal advocate for individuals with disabilities and the independent living community.  They need to be active in regional, state and national forums for the rights and advances of persons with disabilities and full and fair access for everyone. 

Resource Generator – as ED they are responsible for generating increasing levels of revenue to grow the already exceptional services and programs of CFI. Through a combination of fundraising, grant acquisition, government support and fee for service programs the new ED will be expected to have experience in generating revenue

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Champion– as ED they must possess a strong understanding of DEIA and a lived experience of the disability community.  They must have a complete understanding of the principles of DEIA to foster and inclusive and equitable environment for staff, board, and the community that CFI serves. 

Program Expertise – as the leader of the organization the ED must have a strong understanding of the program areas for individual with disabilities and the independent living community.  The ability to expand the existing base of program excellence will be a key area of focus for the new ED.  Demonstrated experience and knowledge of service delivery is essential. 

Company Description

Founded in 1981, The Center for Independence (CFI) is a non-residential, community-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization operated by people with disabilities, serving people with disabilities ages 14 and up. We are grassroots, disability led organization that serves people with all disabilities. 

With offices in Lakewood and Marysville, Washington CFI serves the following counties: Thurston, Pierce, South King, Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Island, and San Juan. CFI has 15 employees and an annual budget of $1,000,000. 

We serve as a resource for individuals with disabilities to fully access and participate in the community through outreach, advocacy, and independent living skills development. We work together with participants to achieve independent living goals such as self-advocacy, self-sufficiency, and self-determination. 

Benefits

Salary - $80,000 - $85,000. An excellent benefit package is provided.