Executive Director

Executive Director

Upower - Seattle, WA

Salary - $95,000-$115,000

Annual Budget - $1,000,800

Total Staff - 8 FTEs

About Upower

Upower is a trauma-informed nonprofit that empowers underserved youth through movement and play. Our mission is to build positive relationships through trauma-informed coaching, using physical activity to educate, support, and inspire youth. We confront systemic and institutional inequities by providing access to the physical, social-emotional, and academic benefits of physical activity and play.

Our Core Values

• Equity – We are committed to social justice and dismantling systemic barriers for underserved youth.
• Power of Play – We believe play is a right and a powerful tool for development and healing.
• Community & Collaboration – We partner deeply to meet the collective needs of our community.
• Youth Development – We center young people’s growth and leadership.
• Relationship Building – We foster trust and connection through trauma-informed practice.

The Opportunity

Upower seeks a dynamic, equity-centered Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization into its next chapter. The ED is responsible for strategic leadership, organizational management, fundraising, and partnership building. They will work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and community partners to advance Upower’s mission and vision, while ensuring long-term sustainability and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Management

• Lead with a trauma-informed and inclusive approach that supports staff and youth well-being.
• Foster a strong, mission-aligned team culture rooted in learning, teamwork, accountability, and collaboration.
• Oversee program delivery, operations, HR, and compliance.
• Manage organizational finances, including annual budgeting, cash flow, and reporting, in partnership with the Board Treasurer.

Fundraising & External Relations

• Drive fundraising strategy across individuals, foundations, special events, and corporations to meet revenue goals.
• Build and steward strong relationships with major donors and institutional funders.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization with media, funders, and the community.
• Guide the development and use of messaging and materials that clearly communicate Upower’s mission and impact.
• Drive special event fundraising strategy and oversee event planning.

Board Engagement & Strategic Direction

• Partner with the Board of Directors on organizational strategy, governance, and resource development.
• Provide timely, transparent communication to support effective Board decision-making.
• Support recruitment and development of a diverse and engaged Board.

Equity & Community Leadership

• Embed racial equity and social justice in all aspects of leadership and decision-making.
• Advocate for play equity and access to wellness opportunities for underserved youth.
• Cultivate partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and public agencies aligned with Upower’s mission.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications

• Passion for Upower’s mission and belief in the power of movement and play.
• Proven nonprofit leadership experience, preferably in youth development, public health, or education.
• Strong track record of fundraising, including major gifts and institutional support.
• Deep understanding of trauma-informed care and equity-centered practices.
• Demonstrated ability to manage people, budgets, and organizational systems.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholders.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $95,000-$115,000
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible work environment

UPOWER’S DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION STATEMENT

Diversity is a core value at Upower. We are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all students, staff, and volunteers. People of color, women, and people from underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply. We are an equal opportunity employer.

To Apply

Please submit a resume and a cover letter that describes your alignment with Upower’s mission and qualifications for the role to contactus@u-power.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.