What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director position at Cancer Lifeline?
Cancer Lifeline
Seattle, Washington (Hybrid/Flexible)
Since 1973, Cancer Lifeline has been dedicated to optimizing the quality of life for people living with cancer. We provide supportive services, including educational classes, support groups, mental health counseling, retreats, financial assistance, and a resource and support line for people with cancer, their families, and caregivers. Most of our programs are offered at no cost, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent participation.
Cancer Lifeline is a trusted community organization with a strong history of partnership, donor investment, and compassionate service. Our work is powered by a dedicated team of staff and contracted professionals, guided by an engaged Board of Directors and supported by generous donors, hospital partners, and community collaborators.
As we look to the future, Cancer Lifeline seeks a leader who will build on our strong foundation—strengthening relationships, stewarding resources responsibly, and guiding the organization with clarity, humility, and heart.
The Executive Director serves as the strategic and operational leader of Cancer Lifeline, responsible for advancing our mission, ensuring financial sustainability, and fostering a healthy organizational culture grounded in dignity, inclusion, and respect for lived experience.
This role requires a leader who combines emotional intelligence and compassionate leadership with strong fiscal discipline and strategic decision-making. The Executive Director will serve as the public face of the organization, working closely with staff, volunteers, donors, healthcare partners, and the Board of Directors to sustain and grow Cancer Lifeline’s impact throughout Washington State.
- Provide clear strategic direction aligned with Cancer Lifeline’s mission and values
- Partner with the Board of Directors to advance governance, long-term planning, and organizational growth
- Lead ongoing strategic planning efforts with input from internal and external stakeholders
- Ensure successful integration and alignment of programs, services, and organizational priorities
- Guide the organization through change with transparency, steadiness, and respect for staff and community relationships
- Oversee budget development, fiscal management, and compliance with financial and audit standards
- Maintain strong financial discipline to ensure the organization’s long-term sustainability
- Monitor financial performance and implement strategies that support responsible growth
- Work closely with the Board and leadership team to align financial planning with program priorities
- Ensure effective stewardship of donor investments and community resources
- In collaboration with the Development Director, cultivate relationships with major donors and institutional funders
- Strengthen partnerships with hospitals, foundations, corporate sponsors, and community organizations
- Support diversified fundraising strategies that sustain and expand program delivery
- Serve as a visible and credible ambassador for Cancer Lifeline in the community
- Model a leadership style rooted in compassion, accountability, and emotional intelligence
- Foster a healthy, inclusive workplace culture that supports staff well-being and professional growth
- Build trust across teams through clear communication and consistent follow-through
- Support staff in maintaining high standards of performance while honoring the emotional realities of cancer care work
- Lead with humility and respect for the lived experiences of participants, caregivers, and colleagues
- Serve as the public face of Cancer Lifeline, representing the organization with professionalism and authenticity
- Expand awareness of Cancer Lifeline’s services across diverse communities
- Strengthen relationships with healthcare providers, community partners, and regional stakeholders
- Advance the organization’s reputation as a trusted, community-centered resource
- At least three years of senior management experience in a nonprofit or human services organization
- Demonstrated success in fundraising, including cultivating major donor relationships and securing institutional support
- Strong financial management experience, including oversight of organizational budgets of $1 million or more
- Experience developing and executing strategic plans in collaboration with diverse stakeholders
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams with clarity, empathy, and accountability
These qualifications reflect the core competencies needed to guide a mission-driven organization responsibly while maintaining strong community trust and financial integrity.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal awareness
- Compassionate leadership grounded in respect for people and mission
- Sound financial judgment and disciplined decision-making
- Commitment to inclusion, cultural humility, and community partnership
- Ability to balance strategic vision with operational follow-through
- Courage to make thoughtful decisions in complex environments
- Deep appreciation for the role community-based support plays in the lives of people living with cancer
This is a full-time salaried position based in Seattle, Washington, with flexible work arrangements available.
Salary Range:
$140,000–$175,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits include:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Employer-matched retirement savings plan
- Paid time off
- Flexible work arrangements
Please submit your resume and cover letter describing your connection to Cancer Lifeline’s mission and your relevant leadership experience to:
EDSearch@cancerlifeline.org
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until filled. The preferred start date is September 2026.
Salary : $140,000 - $175,000