Executive Director, WA State Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA)

State of Washington • Thurston County – Olympia, WA

13d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs is a small but impactful state agency dedicated to ensuring that Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander and Asian and Asian American communities across Washington are seen, heard, and represented in the decisions that shape their lives. Guided by a Governor-appointed board of community leaders, we work at the intersection of policy, advocacy, and community engagement to advance equity in areas like education, health, economic opportunity, and civil rights. We partner with communities and state leaders to elevate lived experiences, inform policy, and drive meaningful, lasting change. If you’re motivated by public service and want to help build a more inclusive Washington, this is a place where your leadership can make a real difference. In your role as the Executive Director, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to lead a cabinet-level state agency that advises the Governor, Legislature, and state agencies on issues impacting Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander and Asian/Asian American communities across Washington. This role requires adaptability, thoughtful decision-making, and the ability to balance competing priorities in a resource-constrained environment. While managing daily operations including staff, budget, programs, and communications, you’ll advance a strategic vision grounded in equity and inclusion. You will work closely with Commissioners and stakeholders to guide strategy and identify priorities, respond to emerging needs, and develop policy recommendations that improve well-being across diverse communities. We’re looking for someone with a strong understanding of state government and the legislative process, experience in public policy, and the ability to build relationships across sectors. You bring sound judgment, cultural awareness, and a commitment to inclusive leadership. If you are someone that cares deeply about equity and ensuring diverse communities are represented in government decisions, this may be the right fit for you. Join our team in leading meaningful change at the state level.

Requirements

• Experience leading complex organizations by aligning staffing, resources, budgets and priorities with strategic goals.
• Understanding of legislative processes and policy development.
• Experience building strong relationships with other state agencies, government leaders, community organizations, and advocacy groups.
• Experience with reporting and analyzing data to measure performance, outcomes and guiding policy recommendations.
• Ability to build relationships with NH/PI and A/AA organizations and leaders.
• Ability to sustain a positive and collaborative organizational structure by building respectful partnerships with unions, leadership and employees.
• Fosters transparency, trust and shared problem-solving to advance efficiency, innovation, and effective service delivery.
• Five years or more of experience in policy development and/or policy analysis.
• Three years or more of experience making measurable impact through program management and execution.
• Supervisory experience and providing growth and training to staff.
• Experience executing a strategic plan.

Nice To Haves

• Baccalaureate Degree or higher in public administration, public policy, political science, law or related field.
• Knowledgeable about ethnic communities, cultural and historical experiences, and issues related to NH/PI and A/AA Washingtonians and have close and proven ties to the NH/PI and A/AA communities.
• Ability to work in diverse, multi-lingual, and multi-ethnic communities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion across an organization, in the development of public policy and delivery of services and programs.
• Ability to develop metrics and manage budgets.
• Experience in non-profit or coalition management or leadership.
• Familiarity with the Microsoft Office suite including Word, Outlook, and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, organize, and direct the work performed by the agency while ensuring that the agency is fulfilling the full scope of duties outlined in RCW 43.117.080.
• Oversee the day-to-day management and administration of staff, budget and other areas to ensure efficient operation and compliance.
• Facilitate community engagement, respond to emerging needs, recommend changes and improvements to program and laws to improve the well-being of the Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders (NH/PI) and Asian/Asian Americans (A/AA) in Washington State.
• Build strong relationships and collaborate with stakeholders on issues pertaining to the rights and needs of NH/PI and A/AA communities.
• Oversee grants and programs as delegated and appropriated to the Commission.
• Analyze data, process and service delivery to identify gaps and disparities and develop solutions to promote equity, diversity and inclusion.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 12 paid holidays, 14 paid vacation days (minimum), and 12 days of sick leave per year
• State retirement programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Associate degree