Executive Director, WA State Asian Pacific American Affairs; CAPAA

Please Note

This recruitment will remain open until filled with a first review of applicants on June 24, 2026. The hiring authority reserves the right and may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time. We encourage all to apply as early as possible. The starting salary offer will be determined based on the successful candidates’ qualifications within the starting salary range of $83,724 - $145,000 annually.

Our physical office is located in Olympia, WA. This is a hybrid position with the ability to telework. However, you will need to travel throughout Washington State to attend in-person meetings or community events as required by the position.

Per RCW, the Executive Director shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the governor, in consultation with the council.

The Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs is a small but impactful state agency dedicated to ensuring that Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander and Asian and Asian American communities across Washington are seen, heard, and represented in the decisions that shape their lives. Guided by a Governor-appointed board of community leaders, we work at the intersection of policy, advocacy, and community engagement to advance equity in areas like education, health, economic opportunity, and civil rights.

We partner with communities and state leaders to elevate lived experiences, inform policy, and drive meaningful, lasting change. If you’re motivated by public service and want to help build a more inclusive Washington, this is a place where your leadership can make a real difference.

In your role as the Executive Director, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to lead a cabinet-level state agency that advises the Governor, Legislature, and state agencies on issues impacting Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander and Asian/Asian American communities across Washington. This role requires adaptability, thoughtful decision-making, and the ability to balance competing priorities in a resource-constrained environment.

While managing daily operations including staff, budget, programs, and communications, you’ll advance a strategic vision grounded in equity and inclusion. You will work closely with Commissioners and stakeholders to guide strategy and identify priorities, respond to emerging needs, and develop policy recommendations that improve well-being across diverse communities.

We’re looking for someone with a strong understanding of state government and the legislative process, experience in public policy, and the ability to build relationships across sectors. You bring sound judgment, cultural awareness, and a commitment to inclusive leadership. If you are someone that cares deeply about equity and ensuring diverse communities are represented in government decisions, this may be the right fit for you.

Join our team in leading meaningful change at the state level.

• Plan, lead, organize, and direct the work performed by the agency while ensuring that the agency is fulfilling the full scope of duties outlined in RCW .
• Oversee the day-to-day management and administration of staff, budget and other areas to ensure efficient operation and compliance.
• Facilitate community engagement, respond to emerging needs, recommend changes and improvements to program and laws to improve the well-being of the Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders (NH/PI) and Asian/Asian Americans (A/AA) in Washington State.
• Build strong relationships and collaborate with stakeholders on issues pertaining to the rights and needs of NH/PI and A/AA communities.
• Oversee grants and programs as delegated and appropriated to the Commission.
• Analyze data, process and service delivery to identify gaps and disparities and develop solutions to promote equity, diversity and inclusion.

• Experience leading complex organizations by aligning staffing, resources, budgets and priorities with strategic goals.
• Understanding of legislative processes and policy development.
• Experience building strong relationships with other state agencies,…