Executive Director

Executive Director | Opportunity Council | Bellingham, WA | $245,000-$295,000

For more than 60 years, Opportunity Council (OC) has worked across Northwest Washington to help people build better lives through education, housing, childcare, basic needs support, job training, and community health programs. Headquartered in beautiful Bellingham and serving Whatcom, Island, and San Juan Counties, and beyond, OC is one of the region's most impactful nonprofits, with a team of 450 staff members, a $70 million annual budget, and a deep commitment to building just and equitable communities for all. As the organization enters its next chapter of growth and impact, we are looking for a visionary and experienced Executive Director to lead the way.

As Executive Director, you will oversee all aspects of a large, complex, multi-program agency while working closely with the Board of Directors and a leadership team of eight direct reports. Your priorities will include strengthening connections across departments and locations, stabilizing and diversifying funding, supporting staff wellness and leadership growth, and building strong relationships with elected officials, community partners, and funders at every level. This is a role for someone who leads with empathy, stays steady under pressure, and knows how to bring people together around a shared mission.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience leading large nonprofit organizations or community action agencies, along with strong skills in strategic planning, financial management, fundraising, and community advocacy. Knowledge of housing, early childhood, social services, or community health programs is a real plus. Most importantly, we are looking for a humble, human-centered leader who is passionate about serving people experiencing financial pressures, and who values the diversity of the communities OC serves.

OC offers a salary of $245,000 to $295,000 depending on qualifications, plus a generous benefits package that includes

• employer-paid health coverage
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions
• paid time off for vacation
• sick leave
• personal holidays
• wellness needs

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with a priority deadline of Nov. 30, 2026.