Executive Director

Executive Director

Exempt BAND 4 (AT-WILL)

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. The hiring authority reserves the right to offer the position at any time during the recruitment process. Application review begins April 7th.

Who We Are

Established in 1949 by the Washington State Legislature, the Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) is a state agency responsible for administering and enforcing the Washington Law Against Discrimination. Chapter 49.60 RCW is the WSHRC’s statutory authority. The WSHRC enforces civil rights laws born from state and national civil rights movements.

Under the law, everyone has the right to be free from discrimination at work, in housing, in public accommodations, or when seeking credit and insurance. Any individual who believes that they have been discriminated against based on protected class status may file a charge of discrimination with the WSHRC. We are a neutral fact‑finding agency, and we are deemed "substantially equivalent" to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The WSHRC does not provide legal advice or advocacy services. Discrimination complaints must be filed within specific time limits, as established by law.

Mission

The mission of the Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) is to prevent and eliminate discrimination through the fair application of the law, the efficient use of resources, and the establishment of productive partnerships in the community.

About this Position

The Executive Director of the WSHRC leads the agency and ensures its mission is effectively carried out. The role oversees the implementation of policies and programs that prevent and address discrimination in Washington. Core responsibilities include leadership and management, policy development, complaint resolution, education and outreach, advocacy, reporting, and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead organizational strategy and governance.
• Develop and implement policies related to civil rights, discrimination, and human equity.
• Oversee complaint investigations, ensuring neutrality, impartiality, thoroughness, and timeliness.
• Provide professional development, supervision, and mentoring to staff.
• Represent the agency in public outreach and media engagements.
• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, advocacy groups, and government agencies.
• Manage budgetary priorities, including the $5 million annual operating budget and federal and state funding streams.
• Set performance indicators and monitor program effectiveness.

Required Education, Experience & Certifications

• Legal education and Washington State license to practice law.
• 2–5 years of senior management or executive leadership, preferably in a governmental or non‑profit civil rights or social justice organization.
• Experience in developing and implementing policies related to civil rights or discrimination.
• Background in handling complaints or investigations, ideally related to discrimination or human rights.

Required Knowledge

• In‑depth understanding of federal and state civil rights laws and anti‑discrimination statutes.
• Familiarity with current human rights trends and challenges.
• Knowledge of organizational leadership, financial management, and resource allocation.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Leadership and interpersonal skills to motivate and guide staff and engage stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for advocacy and public speaking.
• Analytical skills to evaluate program effectiveness and make data‑driven decisions.
• Negotiation and conflict‑resolution abilities.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse populations.

Preferred Education, Experience & Certifications

• Certifications in mediation, conflict resolution, or diversity and inclusion (optional).

Application Materials

• Letter of interest describing how you meet the qualifications.
• Current resume detailing experience and education.
• List of at least three professional references with contact information.
• Transcripts.

Do not attach documents that include photos or private information (SSN, year of birth, etc.).

By submitting these materials, you confirm that all information is true and correct. The state may verify information. Untruthful or misleading information may result in removal from the applicant pool or dismissal. A resume will not substitute for completing the “duties summary” section or supplemental questions.

Opportunity for All

The Human Rights Commission celebrates our differences and is committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, family status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We also consider applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Contact Information

For questions about this recruitment or to request a reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact Rachel Vaughan by email or Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the Washington Relay Service at 7‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑833‑6388.

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