Executive Director 

Posting closes on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

 

Position: Executive Director

Location: Coupeville, WA

Job Type: Full-time exempt

Reports to: EDC Board President

Additional Information on Position

 

ORGANIZATION

Economic Development Council for Island County (EDC), a 501(c)(6) nonprofit, carries out business retention, expansion, attraction, and collaborative engagement to create a thriving economic environment where businesses can grow and create jobs for local residents in a way that enhances and preserves our unique quality of life.

JOB SUMMARY

The executive director plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth and enhancing community prosperity in Island County. This includes the development of strategic plans for optimal growth and maximizing the value and impact of the services offered by the EDC to the Island County business community.

The executive director oversees the EDC’s day-to-day financial and administrative operations, manages the implementation of strategic initiatives, and regularly assesses the opportunities and challenges facing the Island County business community. They supervise staff and project-based contractors.

Anchored in the EDC’s strategic priorities and funding contracts, the executive director will lead initiatives focused on 1) Revenue diversification and contract compliance; 2) Business retention, expansion and attraction; 3) Economic advocacy and policy engagement; 4) Workforce development and alignment; 5) Stakeholder engagement and regional collaboration; 6) Research & reporting on the county Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)

PRINCIPAL FUNCTIONS

Business Retention, Expansion & Attraction

• Provide resources and programs to support local businesses, especially small businesses across all sectors.
• Advocate for policies and initiatives at the local, regional, and state levels that support economic growth, entrepreneurship, and innovation in Island County.
• Develop an understanding of the unique opportunities and challenges that face both small and large businesses operating in a rural, island environment.
• Manage ongoing research, analysis and updates of economic data & reports on the EDC website.
• Ensure compliance of contractual obligations the EDC holds with Island County, the WA State Dept. of Commerce, WA State Dept. of Labor & Industries, and the City of Oak Harbor.

CEDS Monitoring & Research

• Conduct and oversee research to support CEDS performance tracking and economic trend analysis.
• Prepare clear, data-informed reports on CEDS progress for internal and external audiences.
• Present findings and recommendations to the Island County Board of County Commissioners, Council of Governments, and other regional bodies.

Strategic Planning & Revenue Diversification

• Develop and lead the execution of annual work plans based on strategic priorities, including strategies for fundraising, stakeholder management, community relations, and marketing/communications.
• Develop strategies to diversify revenue sources, such as grants, sponsorships, partnerships and fundraising to support EDC programs and initiatives.
• Explore avenues for expanding annual memberships from local businesses, individuals, nonprofits, and other stakeholders to bolster financial support.

Financial Management

• Maintain ultimate responsibility for the prudent financial management of the organization.
• Develop and execute an annual operating budget.
• Ensure compliance with grant and contractual financial tracking & reporting requirements.
• Work closely with the finance committee to monitor financial performance and make recommendations for improvements as needed.
• Maintain current knowledge of State and IRS regulations to comply with the EDC’s 501(c)(6) status.

Management Oversight & Leadership

• Provide visionary leadership and direction to the Council’s staff and volunteers, fostering a collaborative and mission-driven culture. Provide opportunities for staff members to expand their responsibilities within the organization.
• Promote a culture of respect for, and diligent compliance with, all regulatory rules, compliance requirements, and ethical behaviors consistent with the organization.

Stakeholder and Community Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including local government officials, business leaders, community organizations, educational institutions, media, and other partners to foster collaboration and support for economic development efforts.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the EDC, effectively communicating its mission, goals, and accomplishments.
• Serve on outside committees that benefit economic growth in Island County and to EDC members.

Marketing and Communication

• Develop and oversee execution of a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with the EDC’s goals and enhances its public image.
• Lead the crafting of key messages and development of marketing materials while ensuring consistent messaging across various communication channels.

Board Collaboration

• Work with board leadership to assess board development needs, support recruitment of board members aligned with the EDC’s strategic priorities, and foster board engagement in membership and sponsorship development.
• Serve on all board committees in an administrative and advisory capacity.
• Communicate effectively and transparently with the board, providing appropriate policy recommendations and all information necessary for informed decision-making.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Monitor economic trends, analyze data, and prepare reports to assess the impact of EDC programs and initiatives, track progress towards goals, and inform decision-making.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in business administration, public administration, economics, marketing, or a related field is preferred. Three years of experience in economic development, preferably in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience with fundraising, sponsorships, memberships, grants, and other revenue diversification efforts to support organizational sustainability.
• Experience navigating politically complex, multi-stakeholder environments and building effective relationships with elected officials, government agencies, business leaders, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and community organizations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.
• Experience facilitating meetings, preparing formal reports, and presenting to governing bodies such as county commissions, councils of governments, or similar public agencies.
• Familiarity with relevant technology and tools for data analysis, marketing, and communication.
• Driver's license and ability to travel throughout Island County.
• A leadership style that prioritizes building relationships, collaborative partnerships, inspiring and developing staff and board members, and making a difference for the EDC membership and the small business community.

EDC’S EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

The Economic Development Council for Island County is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.

We actively promote non-discrimination and strive to create an environment that celebrates diversity in all its forms. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability.

We are committed to ongoing efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion both within our organization and throughout the communities we serve.

COMPENSATION 

Job Type: Full-time; Exempt

Reports to: EDC Board President

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $90,000 – $110,000, including medical benefits.

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, the answers to the supplemental questions (below), and a list of references to EDC Executive Search Committee member, Marie Haynes, at mariefshimada@gmail.com by June 17, 2026. **Please include “Executive Director/Your Name” in the subject line. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Supplemental Questions: To help us better understand your experience, perspective, and communication style, please respond to the following questions. Limit responses to no more than one page per question and include them with your application materials by June 17, 2026.

Question 1: Why EDC Island County?

In your opinion, in Island County, what are the greatest challenges to economic development and why do you believe this is the right opportunity for you at this stage in your career?

Question 2: Economic Development Experience

Briefly describe an economic development project, initiative, or challenge you have worked on. What was your role, how did you approach it, and what was the outcome?

Question 3: Revenue Diversification & Fundraising

As the EDC continues a significant growth phase, what strategies would you consider to expand and sustain organizational revenue, and what results from your past experience best demonstrate your ability to do so?