Executive Director

The Northwest Cooperative Development Center (NWCDC) is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to strengthening cooperative enterprises and advancing a resilient, inclusive cooperative economy throughout the Pacific Northwest. NWCDC provides cooperative development services, technical assistance, education & training, and ecosystem-building support that centers shared ownership, democratic governance, and community benefit.

Over the past several years, NWCDC has experienced meaningful growth, expanding its programs, strengthening its team, and increasing its impact across the region. With a solid organizational foundation in place, NWCDC is entering its next phase of growth, focused on deepening its impact, strengthening internal systems, and expanding its leadership within the cooperative ecosystem.

As part of this evolution, NWCDC is conducting an open search for its next Executive Director. This search reflects NWCDC’s commitment to transparency and equitable opportunity, and it’s open to both internal and external candidates.

The Executive Director (ED) serves as NWCDC’s chief executive and is responsible for advancing the organization’s mission, strategy, and long-term sustainability. This role requires a highly capable organizational leader who can build strong systems, ensure accountability, and translate visions into clear, measurable outcomes, while working in collaboration with the staff and the Board of Directors.

While prior experience working in cooperatives is not required, a demonstrated commitment to cooperative values—such as democracy, equity, shared ownership, mutual accountability, and community benefit—is essential. The ED is expected to model, champion, and operationalize these values across all aspects of leadership and management.