Chief Executive Officer

Role overview

The Chief Executive Officer will report to the Board of Directors and lead Kin On’s overall strategy, day-to-day operations, financial health, and external presence. This leader should be deeply committed to culturally competent elder care, able to energize employees, engage community partners, and maintain a high-standard care environment.

The organization is looking for a leader who combines vision with practical execution. The ideal candidate will understand community needs, turn those insights into clear direction, build trust among stakeholders, and guide the organization confidently through change.

Kin On seeks a CEO who is strongly connected to the Asian American community and aligned with the mission. The role will build on an established foundation to deepen impact, strengthen internal alignment, and ensure programs and partnerships continue meeting the changing needs of older adults through culturally responsive care.

Key responsibilities

• Lead Kin On with broad oversight of operations, programs, and staff, while setting a clear direction for the organization.
• Partner with the Board to create, refine, and carry out the strategic plan.
• Ensure services remain high quality, culturally responsive, compliant with regulations, and consistent with the mission and reputation of the organization.
• Direct budgeting, financial planning, and long-term fiscal sustainability.
• Develop strong working relationships with residents, families, community partners, donors, public agencies, and other key stakeholders.
• Drive fundraising and development activities to broaden and increase funding sources.
• Attract, grow, and keep a capable team that is motivated by the mission.
• Represent Kin On as its lead public ambassador across the Seattle community.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of senior leadership experience in an organization of similar or larger scale that serves skilled nursing, senior living, elder care, rehabilitation, or comparable community services.
• Strong understanding of the cultural, linguistic, and social needs of Asian and diverse communities, along with a genuine commitment to serving them.
• Solid financial management skills, including budget oversight and fundraising experience.
• Excellent relationship-building, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors.
• Knowledge of long-term care regulations and compliance is preferred.
• Ability to speak multiple languages, especially Cantonese, Mandarin, or other Asian languages, is strongly preferred and considered a significant advantage.
• A bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, public health, business administration, human services, or a related field is required; a master’s degree is preferred.

Vision and strategic leadership

The CEO will create a compelling future direction that resonates with the community and stakeholders, converting broad ideas into measurable plans with clear accountability. A strong understanding of Chinese American history, values, and intergenerational dynamics will help preserve Kin On’s cultural foundation while expanding its long-term impact. The role also requires balancing ambitious thinking with careful stewardship of financial resources to support innovation and sustainability.

Change management and execution

Kin On is seeking a leader who can strengthen clarity, momentum, and alignment while building on an existing collaborative culture. The CEO will work closely with an experienced team to reinforce accountability, clarify priorities, and ensure follow-through. Success in this role depends on balancing collaboration with decisive leadership and helping the organization move toward a more coordinated operating model.

Community-centered leadership

This is a highly visible role that requires trust-building across families, caregivers, community leaders, and partners. The CEO must navigate cultural nuances thoughtfully, show respect for the experiences of Asian American older adults and their families, and help Kin On remain a trusted cultural anchor. The role also includes strengthening partnerships, engaging community voices authentically, and inspiring donors and stakeholders to support the organization’s growth.

Operational excellence and team leadership

The CEO will translate strategy into action through disciplined operations, effective resource allocation, and data-informed decision-making. Internally, the leader will support a team with deep institutional knowledge by providing clarity, strengthening accountability, and connecting individual roles to broader organizational goals. An inclusive and respectful environment should be fostered so the team remains high performing, aligned, and mission driven.

Board partnership and governance

The CEO will act as a trusted partner to an engaged and evolving Board, helping align different perspectives and bridge communication across longstanding and newer members. Because governance spans multiple entities, this leader must bring clarity to roles, decisions, and expectations while creating space for strategic discussion beyond routine reporting. Sensitivity to the cultural and community context shaping Board dynamics will be important in building cohesion and trust.

Partnerships, philanthropy, and external engagement

The role involves expanding partnerships with community organizations, healthcare institutions, and aligned funders to broaden Kin On’s reach and influence. The CEO will strengthen fundraising by linking programs to meaningful outcomes and cultivating strong relationships with donors and foundations. A key part of the job is telling Kin On’s story in a way that honors its roots in the Chinese American community while making its mission, legacy, and impact resonate with diverse audiences.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation is competitive and based on experience. The estimated annual salary range for this position is $250,000 to $350,000, and the role includes a generous benefits package.

Application process

Kin On is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates who reflect the communities it serves. Applicants should send a cover letter explaining their interest and mission alignment, along with a current résumé or curriculum vitae, to the designated hiring contact.