Executive Director

Organization: Yakima Valley Conference of Governments
Position Title: Executive Director
Address: 1200 Chesterly Drive #260, Yakima, WA 98908
First Review: May 4, 2026
Salary: $119,763 – $188,195 annually DOQ

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 regions 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.

View the full position profile, job description, and benefits at gmphr.com.

More Information: GMP Consultants is assisting Yakima Valley Conference of Governments with this
search. Learn more at gmphr.com. YVCOG is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is May 4,
2026.