Executive Director

Executive Director

Job Details: FT Salary commensurate with experience $100,000 – $115,000 annually.

Benefits: Paid Time Off, Health Insurance Allowance, Simple IRA

To Apply:  Send Resume and Cover Letter to Jeanne Bennett, Info@columbiaplayproject.org. Phone calls are also welcome — 360-798-8768.

Position Summary:

Columbia Play Project (CPP) seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization in its mission to inspire curiosity and learning through play. This role requires a strategic thinker who excels at leadership, fundraising, community engagement, and operational management. The Executive Director will oversee the Mobile Children’s Museum and the development of a permanent Children’s Museum, working closely with the Board of Directors to ensure the organization’s long-term success and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategic Planning:

Provide visionary leadership to advance CPP’s mission and strategic goals.
Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to develop and implement strategic plans.
Cultivate a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and engagement among staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.
Fundraising & Resource Development:

Develop and implement fundraising strategies, including grant writing, donor stewardship, corporate partnerships, and special events.
Secure funding to sustain and grow CPP’s programs, operations, and museum development.
Build and maintain strong relationships with foundations, businesses, government agencies, and individual donors.
Operations & Financial Management:

Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency and adherence to best practices.
Develop and manage the organization’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability.
Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations and maintain transparency in financial reporting.
Oversee facility planning, exhibit development, and long-term sustainability strategies for the Children’s Museum.
Community Engagement & Advocacy:

Serve as the public face of CPP, building strong partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and community leaders.
Advocate for play-based learning and equitable access to educational opportunities.
Ensure programming reflects the needs and diversity of the community.
Staff & Program Management:

Lead, mentor, and manage staff and collaborate with volunteers to ensure high-quality programming.
Oversee the design and implementation of engaging, educational play experiences.
Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
As a small nonprofit, we all wear many hats. Other duties may be required.
Qualifications & Experience:

Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in a museum, nonprofit organization, or related field.
Proven track record in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.
Experience in museum exhibit development, facility management, or capital projects preferred.
Strong background in nonprofit management, including board governance and compliance.
Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.
Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, education, nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field.
Fluency in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, or other languages is a plus.
Skills & Abilities:

Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.
Ability to cultivate relationships and build community partnerships.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and social media management.
Ability to balance big-picture vision with hands-on operational management.
This is a full time, Monday through Friday position with occasional evening and weekend work.

This position is currently fully remote with frequent onsite program attendance and in person meetings.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Columbia Play Project is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.