EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Yakima Valley Conference of Governments - Yakima, WA

First Review: May 4, 2026
Salary Range: $119,763 - $188,195 annually DOQ

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Job Description

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Yakima Valley Conference of Governments is seeking an Executive Director for this regional planning and coordinating agency located in Yakima, Washington. Situated about halfway between Seattle and Spokane, residents appreciate the region's beautiful weather, relatively low cost of living, strong sense of community, and year-round recreation in the nearby rivers and mountains—all set against a backdrop of wide horizons and abundant sunshine. 

YAKIMA VALLEY CONFERENCE OF GOVERNMENTS 

Yakima Valley Conference of Governments brings together local governments and community partners across Washington’s Yakima County region to address shared challenges and opportunities through cooperative planning and action. Governed by a seven-member Executive Committee, the Conference currently supports roughly 264,650 residents across 4,296 square miles and includes Yakima County along with 14 cities. The Committee appoints an Executive Director to oversee the Conference’s daily operations as well as its team of 12 FTEs across key functional areas: Local Crime Lab, Transportation, Land Use Planning, Finance and Compliance, and Community Services. The Conference operates with a 2026 budget of $7.5 million. 

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

The Executive Director serves under the policy direction of the Executive Committee and acts as the organization’s Chief Executive Officer. The Director plans, organizes, and directs all agency operations and programs, including MPO/RTPO, planning services, crime lab and public safety support, community services, and administrative functions. The Director provides leadership in intergovernmental coordination, organizational management, and implementation of Executive Committee policy, ensuring effective service delivery, financial integrity, and alignment of resources with regional priorities. 

WHY APPLY

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected regional organization at a pivotal and exciting moment in its evolution. YVCOG’s central role in transportation planning and its expanding portfolio in both public safety coordination and member services position it for meaningful impact across the Yakima Valley. The organization benefits from a thoughtful, well-balanced Executive Committee and a staff of mission-driven professionals dedicated to serving the region. For a forward-looking leader who values collaboration, steady leadership, and the opportunity to shape a dynamic organization, this role offers both purpose and lasting impact. 

For questions on this position, please contact:

Dave Zabell
GMP Consultants
dzabell@gmphr.com
(509) 834-9343