Job Opportunity: Executive Director with Seattle Architecture Foundation

Job Description – Executive Director
About the Seattle Architecture Foundation (SAF)
The Seattle Architecture Foundation connects people to the architecture, design, and history of Seattle. We believe
the more you engage with design, the more you feel connected to your changing city. As a volunteer driven
organization, we provide programs which will empower you to make a difference in your community.
SAF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation governed by an engaged volunteer Board of Directors. SAF is supported
by dedicated volunteers and generous donors. SAF operates on an annual $260K budget with primary funding
received from the Architecture, Engineering and Construction community. Additional support is received through
individual donations/sponsorships, grants and program fees.
Position Overview
The SAF Executive Director (ED) reports to the Board of Directors and has overall strategic and operational
responsibility for Seattle Architecture Foundation’s staff, programs, fiscal management, and execution of its mission.
SAF is also a founding partner of the Center for Architecture & Design (CFAD) and the ED plays a lead role in
managing this public space with American Institute of Architects-Seattle, which offers exhibits, talks, workshops and
programs for members of the public and design professionals.
This is a full-time, exempt position. Key responsibilities include:
Leadership, Financial Management and Operations (35%)
• Serve as a spokesperson and advocate for the agency, the CFAD, its programs, volunteers, and program
participants and look for opportunities to leverage partnerships.
• Partner with the board to develop a focused, results-oriented annual operating plan and sustainable budget
and provide ongoing monitoring/evaluation.
• Ensure that equitable human resource practices and policies are in place.
• Hire and supervise all full-time staff (2 FTEs), which currently includes a Program Director and
Communications and Administrative Assistant.
• Oversee the development and implementation of work plans that are aligned with the agency’s priorities.
• Oversee facilities, accounting and reporting functions for SAF and CFAD and compliance with all applicable
laws and regulations.
Fundraising and Communications (30%)
• Oversee the creation and implementation of a comprehensive development plan, leading to a broader
funding mix and continue to increase the historical level of support. In 2022, philanthropic support, including
grants, annual campaign & membership is expected to be ~ $170K.
• Serve as a key participant in development efforts, including donor cultivation and solicitation, promotion of
sponsorship opportunities and broadening the membership base.
• Maintain existing and develop new relationships with organizational and government funders, which includes
writing /reviewing grants, reports, and maintaining relationships with key staff.
• Engage the board in targeted and meaningful fundraising endeavors.
• Deepen and refine all aspects of communications- from web presence to external relations with the goal of
increasing awareness as the organization approaches its 40th Anniversary in 2022.
Board & Volunteer Engagement (20%)
• Serve as the primary conduit between board members and the agency’s staff, volunteers, supporters, and
program participants.
• Provide board members with information, counsel, tools, and resources that will enable them to govern and
support the agency effectively.
• Work alongside the Board to execute the Design Soiree special event series, which includes events hosted
by Architecture Engineering & Construction (AEC) partner firms.