Director OF Government Affairs

The Director of Institutional & External Affairs is a collaborative executive leader with experience in external affairs, strategic partnerships, and cross-functional initiatives, a strong background in mission-driven organizations, and the ability to serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.

Position Overview
Shangri La - Center for Cultures & Ideas and Museum of Islamic Art, one of Honolulu’s most respected cultural and educational organizations, seeks a strategic and collaborative leader to serve as Director of Institutional & External Affairs. Reporting to the Executive Director, this newly created role acts as a key thought partner and organizational leader, overseeing external affairs, government and community relations, institutional partnerships, and enterprise-wide initiatives. The position is ideal for an experienced relationship-builder who enjoys working across organizations, engaging diverse stakeholders, and helping drive strategic priorities in support of a compelling mission.

Responsibilities

Serve as a strategic partner to the Executive Director on organizational priorities and initiatives.

Lead government, community, and external affairs efforts.

Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, community leaders, partners, funders, and key stakeholders.

Develop and strengthen strategic partnerships that advance organizational goals.

Represent the organization at meetings, events, and community engagements.

Lead cross-functional initiatives and special projects spanning multiple departments.

Support organizational planning, alignment, and effective execution of strategic priorities.

Help foster collaboration, communication, and operational effectiveness across the organization.

Skills

External Affairs: Government relations, community engagement, and stakeholder management.

Strategic Partnerships: Building and sustaining relationships that advance organizational priorities.

Executive Leadership: Advising senior leaders and leading enterprise-wide initiatives.

Communication & Influence: Representing organizations and navigating complex stakeholder environments.

Strategic Execution: Managing cross-functional projects and driving organizational effectiveness.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.

5-10 years’ experience in institutional or external affairs, government relations, philanthropy, public policy, or a related sector.

Knowledge of Hawaiʻi's governmental, regulatory, philanthropic, and civic landscape.

Demonstrated success managing high-level stakeholder relationships and partnerships.

Experience working with executive leadership and influencing organizational strategy.

Strong communication, diplomacy, and relationship-building skills.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex initiatives simultaneously.

Commitment to community engagement and mission-driven work.

Ability to work onsite in Honolulu and participate in community events and occasional travel as needed.

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