Executive Director

Company Overview:

JL Consulting Group is a Washington-based Human Resources Consulting firm with over 18 years of experience. As a woman, minority, and service-disabled veteran owned company, we provide integrated HR solutions to federal, state and local governments, special districts, and nonprofit organizations. Our team's expertise and dedication enable us to consistently exceed client expectations and deliver tailored solutions that meet their unique needs. We are committed to excellence and strive to be a reliable partner in achieving our clients' human resources goals.

Application materials will be accepted on a continuous basis. Below is the anticipated timeline for this search:

• First Review of applications: January 20, 2025
• Second Review of applications: February 3, 2025

Position Summary:

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive and operational leader of the Cultural Space Agency (CSA), a municipally chartered public development authority. The ED is responsible for strategic leadership, overseeing the organization's mission-driven real estate projects, financial health, partnerships, and governance. Additionally, the ED currently manages significant day-to-day operations, including property management, HR functions, and financial transactions, but will work to delegate these tasks to support staff as the organization grows.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Develop and Execute Strategy: Work with the Governing Council and the Constituency to set and implement the strategic vision and goals for the organization.
• Public Representation: Serve as the primary public face of the CSA, representing the organization in communications, public events, partnerships, and media engagements.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Foster and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including philanthropic organizations, community leaders, city officials, and commercial real estate partners to secure support for CSA’s projects and mission.
• Fund Development and Real Estate Strategy: Collaborate with the Director of Fund Development and Director of Real Estate to ensure alignment with CSA’s values and to advance real estate projects, fundraising, and financial sustainability.

2. Governance and Organizational Management

• Governing Council Support: Facilitate communication with the Governing Council and support effective governance through reports, onboarding processes, and regular updates.
• Committee and Constituency Management: Support the work of CSA committees, including operations and administration of the Board by advising and informing Board members and interfacing between Board and staff. 
• Board and Stakeholder Engagement: Actively engage with the Board to support fundraising, programmatic oversight, and governance. Provide guidance and updates to the board of directors, ensuring transparency in decision-making processes and operations.

3. Operational Management

• Contract and Consultant Management: Oversee and manage contracts for external consultants, vendors, and contractors. Ensure compliance and efficiency in the completion of contracted projects.
• Daily Operations: Oversee daily operations of the organization including staff, contractors, community partners and support of the governing council.
• Fundraising Development: Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising plan to secure resources necessary for organizational sustainability.

4. Financial Oversight

• Budgeting and Financial Planning: Develop and manage annual and long-term financial plans in collaboration with the Finance Committee, ensuring alignment with the organization’s goals
• Financial Grant Oversight:  Providing financial & grant oversight and compliance with local, state and federal regulations ensuring financial stability and growth with contracts and grants.

5. Compliance and Regulatory Oversight

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the Cultural Space Agency adheres to all applicable Washington Administrative Codes (WACs) and Revised Code of Washington (RCWs) regulations, as required for Public Development Authorities.
• Documentation and Reporting: Oversee and document compliance processes, including end-of-year reporting to the City of Seattle and other regulatory bodies, as mandated for all PDAs. Ensure that all necessary legal filings and compliance documents are submitted on time.
• Process Development: Establish and maintain compliance-related processes, policies, and documentation to ensure ongoing adherence to state and local requirements.

6.  Community Engagement & Advocacy

• Serve as the face and voice of the organization, engaging with the community, media, and partner organizations.
• Advocate for the mission and work of the organization, building and maintaining strong partnerships.
• Representing the organization in public forums, sharing our work, impact, and story.
• Cultivate relationships with donors, foundations, corporate sponsors, and other stakeholders.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of leadership experience in a similar field, including nonprofit or public sector leadership, real estate, or community-based organizational management.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, budget oversight, and public-facing leadership roles.
• Familiarity with fundraising, financial management, and real estate projects.
• Strong organizational skills with a balance of high-level strategic thinking and the ability to manage day-to-day operations as needed.
• Knowledge of HR, governance, and policy management is a plus.

Preferred Attributes:

• A visionary leader with a “roll up your sleeves” mentality.
• Experience in a small organization where adaptability, resourcefulness, and resilience are key.
• A deep commitment to our mission and a desire to make a meaningful impact.

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision benefits will be available for employees.
• Unlimited paid time off
• Holiday time off