Board of Trustees Deputy Chief of Staff

$111,048 to $139,080 per year. Starting salary may be between the minimum and maximum salary range provided, based on qualifications.

GENERAL PURPOSE OF POSITION

The Deputy Chief of Staff serves as a key advisor and strategic partner to the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, supporting the Chief of Staff in managing day-today operations, executing the Chairperson’s priorities, and advancing the mission of OHA. This position requires strong leadership, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex political, cultural, and policy issues affecting Native Hawaiians.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Planning & Policy Development

a. Assist in developing and implementing strategic initiatives aligned with the Chairperson’s vision and OHA’s mission.

b. Conduct research and provide policy recommendations on key issues impacting Native Hawaiians.

c. Draft position papers, briefing materials, and reports to support decision-making.

2. Operations & Administration

a. Oversee internal processes to ensure effective coordination and execution of the Chairperson’s agenda.

b. Assist in managing staff, setting priorities, and ensuring accountability.

c. Support budget development, resource allocation, and performance evaluation.

3. Stakeholder Engagement & Community Relations

a. Serve as a liaison between the Chairperson’s office and trustees, OHA staff, government agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders.

b. Represent the Chairperson in meetings and public events as needed.

c. Facilitate community engagement efforts and ensure transparency in communication.

4. Legislative & Advocacy Support

a. Monitor and analyze legislative and policy developments at the local, state, and federal levels.

b. Coordinate with OHA’s advocacy teams to advance policy initiatives that benefit Native Hawaiians.

c. Draft testimony, policy briefings, and advocacy materials.

5. Crisis Management & Issue Response

a. Support the Chief of Staff in responding to urgent matters, crises, and sensitive issues.

b. Develop communication strategies and rapid response plans as needed.

c. Maintain confidentiality and discretion in handling high-level matters.

Operational Responsibilities

1. Assist with ensuring efficiency, productivity, and professionalism among the Chair’s staff as directed by the Chairperson or Chief of Staff.

2. Assist with coordinating activities across BOT staff to ensure smooth operations as directed by the Chairperson or Chief of Staff.

3. Assist with the preparation and confidentiality of BOT Executive Session minutes as directed by the Chairperson or Chief of Staff.

4. Assist with drafting speeches for the Chair in collaboration with OHA Communications and Administration teams as directed by the Chairperson or Chief of Staff.

5. Assist with drafting celebratory certificates or certificates of recognition as directed by the Chairperson or Chief of Staff.

6. In coordination with the Chief of Staff and Board Chairperson, manage the Board of Trustees budget and oversee related financial operations, including contracts, expenditures, invoices, accounting, and vendor billing, to ensure timely processing, fiscal responsibility, and alignment with organizational policies and priorities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training and/or Experience

1. Graduation from an accredited four (4) year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in public administration, political science, business, accounting, Hawaiian studies or a related field.

2. At least five (5) years of relevant experience demonstrating the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience working in a legislative or government setting.

2. Experience in finance, accounting and/or managing a multi-million-dollar budget.

3. Fluency or basic knowledge of the Hawaiian language (ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi) and cultural protocols.

4. Background in public policy, strategic communications, or community development.

5. Familiarity with the four major elements of the Kumu Honua Mauli Ola framework.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Must have working knowledge of:

• Principles of public and business administration, supervision, and program planning.
• Structure and functions of state government and OHA.
• Federal and state laws and country regulations.
• Public relations, supervision, and legislative processes.
• Hawaiian culture, language (ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi), customs, issues, and concerns.

2. Must have demonstrated skills or ability in:

• Plan, organize, develop, coordinate, and review staff activities.
• Build and maintain cooperative relationships with public officials, government staff, community leaders, and stakeholders.
• Develop and implement programs and policies aligned with OHA's goals.
• Build coalitions, engage stakeholders, and lead collaborative processes.
• Communicate clearly and tactfully, both orally and in writing. Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• Demonstrate a commitment to servant leadership.
• Exhibit an outstanding work ethic.
• Exhibit hustle, grit, perseverance, and professional temperament.
• Demonstrate critical thinking and sound decision-making skills.
• Demonstrate creativity, innovation, adaptability, and the ability to manage competing demands.
• Have discretion, independent judgment, and initiative.
• Ability to perform under stressful conditions while maintaining professionalism.

How To Apply

To apply for this position, submit the following documents:

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing professional experience, education, and accomplishments.
• Cover Letter: Explaining your interest in the position, how you meet the qualifications, and your vision for the role.
• Writing Sample: Responding to the prompts listed in the Writing Sample Requirements section below.
• References: A list of three professional references, including contact information and their relationship to you.
• Educational Transcripts: Copies verifying educational qualifications (official transcripts may be requested later).
• Professional Certifications or Licenses (if applicable).
• Optional Portfolio: Showcasing relevant work, such as policy proposals or strategic plans.

Along with a completed application downloaded from our website https://www.oha.org/jobs/ to:

OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS
560 N. Nimitz Highway, Suite 200
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96817
Attention: Human Resources

Or via email: careers@oha.org

Writing Sample Requirements:

1. What are your strengths and weaknesses, and how would you address your weaknesses if selected as Deputy Chief of Staff?
2. Describe your management philosophy and experience in managing people, including handling staff counseling and terminations.
3. Identify the top three challenges currently facing OHA and provide one actionable suggestion for each challenge.
4. Provide an example where you demonstrated servant leadership.

Applications must be submitted by Friday, April 11th, 2025 at 4:30pm HST.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) employees must be permanent Hawaii residents. Out-of-state applicants who are offered employment with OHA will need to relocate to Hawaii and establish permanent residency.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $111,048.00 - $139,080.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $111,048 - $139,080