Job: President of Columbia River Economic Development Council (Washington)

 The Columbia River Economic Development Council in Vancouver, Washington is seeking a President.

Salary: $150,000 - $170,000 DOQ

Located in Southwest Washington, Clark County is a thriving region that combines rich history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Stretching from the Columbia River to the southern slopes of Mount St. Helens, the county is home to more than 527,000 residents and has become a vital player in the greater Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area. Its county seat, Vancouver, is Washington’s fourth largest city and serves as a dynamic hub for government, commerce, dining, and culture. Just across the Columbia River from Portland and within easy reach of Portland International Airport, the county enjoys strong regional and global connectivity, making it a prime location for both residents and businesses.

The Columbia River Economic Development Council (CREDC) is the state-recognized Associate Development Organization (ADO) for Clark County, Washington. As a nonprofit corporation, CREDC unites more than 150 public and private sector partners dedicated to advancing regional economic vitality through business growth, innovation, and collaboration. CREDC serves as the leading economic development entity for Southwest Washington, providing free, confidential services to companies seeking to launch, expand, or relocate in the region.

 Governed by a 50-member Board of Directors, CREDC staff includes leadership in business development, operations, investor relations, and the Washington APEX Accelerator program, which supports small businesses in securing government contracts. CREDC’s strategic framework is built on three pillars: expanding business growth across five key traded sectors (software, computers and electronics, clean technology, life sciences, and technology-enhanced production); supporting people through workforce development and inclusion initiatives; and creating place by advancing infrastructure, placemaking, and quality of life projects. With an annual budget of approximately $1.1 million, CREDC is well-positioned to continue serving as Clark County’s economic development leader, driving sustainable growth and fostering a resilient, competitive, and inclusive regional economy.

The President of CREDC is responsible for the continuing development of the organization’s strategic direction. Each year, the President will formulate a work plan consistent with the strategic direction for adoption by the Board of Directors and then implement that plan. This position reports to the Board of Directors and is supervised by the Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee. The President is given full oversight, responsibility and accountability for planning and managing the administration, staff, funding, budget, programs, strategic initiatives and business support activities of the organization. The President will also represent CREDC’s interests on a number of business, community and civic boards.

Education & Experience: A bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, with a master’s degree in a relevant discipline strongly desired. A four-year degree serves as the minimum qualification, while advanced training or graduate-level education is preferred to support the complexity of this leadership role. The ideal candidate will demonstrate at least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in community and business leadership. Successful candidates will bring an energetic, creative, and collaborative work style, combined with values and abilities that align with the mission and goals of the organization.

Benefits include: Medical, dental and vision insurance. Employer-matched 401(k) plan. Paid time-off package.

For a complete position profile, full job description and to apply online, visit Prothman at https://www.prothman.com/ and click on "Open Recruitments". For questions, call 206-368-0050. The Columbia River Economic Development Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply by November 2, 2025. (First review, open until filled.)