CISWA operates within a federated network model, where local affiliates maintain autonomy, adhere to national accreditation standards, and leverage the State Office and national network resources. The State Office and affiliates collaborate across Washington State to achieve collective impact towards the CIS mission. The State Office plays a crucial role in ensuring alignment with the Integrated Student Supports (ISS) model, which is the foundation of the CIS approach to supporting students and families.

Success in this role will be defined by the leader’s ability to ensure stability, credibility, clarity, and a compelling vision to internal and external CISWA stakeholders. Following a few short-term executive director transitions, the organization is seeking a leader who will commit to the role for the long term—providing steady, consistent leadership that strengthens internal alignment and reinforces external confidence. A committed, reliable leader will be especially valuable in building and sustaining strong relationships with CISWA stakeholders, including funders, partners, policymakers, staff, and affiliates. Key priorities include building a cohesive and impactful statewide network, raising awareness of the organization’s work, advancing youth-centered advocacy, and securing sustainable funding. In the near term, the leader will focus on cultivating strong relationships across the network, clarifying the role of the State Office, strengthening strategic alignment, deepening the board-executive partnership, and fostering a positive internal culture that supports staff engagement and retention.

The next State Executive Director of CISWA will step into a dynamic organization that has experienced significant transition and growth. They will play a key role in supporting the implementation of the Network’s shared agenda and adapting strategies to align with evolving economic and policy landscapes. This next chapter calls for a State Executive Director who can lead with vision, collaboration, and strategic execution, ensuring that CISWA continues to build a strong social impact network, advance advocacy efforts, and expand sustainable funding streams.

The State Executive Director of CISWA will serve as the statewide leader and chief advocate for the organization, responsible for deepening partnerships, securing funding, and supporting affiliates in delivering high-impact programs to students across the state. This individual must be a bridge-builder, facilitator, bold strategist, and trusted partner to the board, staff, affiliates, donors, and policymakers.

With a unique network structure that requires collaboration and strategic support rather than direct oversight, the State Executive Director must be adept at leading through influence—bringing stakeholders together around a common vision for the future while ensuring affiliates have the resources, support, and autonomy needed to thrive. Key responsibilities include: strategic leadership and organizational management; advocacy, partnerships and network support; and constituent engagement and public relations.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and mission-driven leader to support the future of CISWA and make a lasting impact on students, families, and communities across the state. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned nonprofit executive with a strong track record of strategic leadership, financial management, fundraising, advocacy, and network-building. They will be a trusted leader who fosters collaboration and transparency, working to ensure that every student in Washington—regardless of their circumstances—has the opportunity to succeed.

This full-time position is based at the Communities In Schools of Washington State office in Tacoma, with frequent travel throughout the state, including occasional evenings and weekends. While hybrid work is optional, the role requires being in person at least one day per week (currently Tuesdays), in alignment with the broader in-office team schedule.

The salary range for this position is $180k–$220k.