Strategic Director of Equity & Title IX Compliance

Western Washington U; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 148,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Washington University in Bellingham seeks an Executive Director to oversee the Office of Equity, Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. Lead policy administration, investigations, and compliance with civil rights and equal employment opportunity laws across the university.

The role directs Title IX coordination, ADA program leadership, and climate initiatives, ensuring inclusive practices and trauma-informed responses while collaborating with HR, academics, and external agencies.

Qualifications

• JD required with 8+ years of university-level leadership experience.
• Administrative experience in higher education.
• Expert in civil rights, equal employment opportunity, and Title IX laws.
• Experience leading trauma-informed investigations.
• Knowledge of higher education policies and DEI practices.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to build trust.
• Excellent project and time management; adaptability.

Responsibilities

• Administer and oversee Equal Opportunity policies and procedures.
• Oversee investigations into discrimination and harassment.
• Lead responses to external agency complaints (EEOC, OCR, DOE).
• Collaborate with HR and academic departments to improve practices.
• Ensure Title IX and anti-discrimination training compliance.
• Develop climate assessment tools for stakeholders.
• Oversee Title IX Coordinator responsibilities and ADA coordination.

Skills

Civil rights law

Title IX

Higher education admin

Investigations leadership

Trauma-informed approach

Policy development

Communication skills

Budget oversight

Education

JD

Job description

Western Washington University in Bellingham seeks an Executive Director to oversee the Office of Equity, Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. Lead policy administration, investigations, and compliance with civil rights and equal employment opportunity laws across the university.

The role directs Title IX coordination, ADA program leadership, and climate initiatives, ensuring inclusive practices and trauma-informed responses while collaborating with HR, academics, and external agencies.