Executive Director
Job Description
Teach For America – Hawai‘i is seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead the region’s impact toward its 2030 vision—accelerating educational opportunities for all students. In this role, you will mobilize a coalition of educators, policymakers, philanthropists, and community leaders to drive meaningful systems change in education.
You will lead a high-performing regional team, engage with key stakeholders, and fundraise approximately $4 million annually to support Teach For America’s mission in Hawai‘i. This position requires a strategic, innovative, and community-driven leader who is committed to educational equity and deeply understands Hawai‘i’s unique educational landscape.
This role is based in Hawai‘i and requires frequent travel across the state, including neighbor islands.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute a bold vision and strategy to drive Teach For America Hawai‘i’s 2030 education goals.
- Build strong partnerships with education, civic, and philanthropic leaders to increase impact.
- Leverage TFA’s national resources while tailoring strategies to meet Hawai‘i’s unique needs.
- Advocate for education policy and innovative solutions to improve student outcomes.
- Ensure a strong regional culture and operational excellence.
- Cultivate relationships with donors, corporate sponsors, and foundations to secure and expand funding.
- Lead fundraising efforts in collaboration with the Development team and engage the regional board to support financial sustainability.
- Partner with state government officials to maintain public funding and legislative support.
- Work closely with the Board Chair and members to ensure strategic governance and alignment with regional goals.
- Recruit, engage, and leverage board members to expand networks and financial support.
- Communicate openly with the board about key challenges, opportunities, and successes.
- Lead and mentor a high-performing, mission-driven team.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
- Ensure professional development and effective leadership pipelines within the organization.
- Convene and mobilize a diverse network of stakeholders to advance educational equity.
- Strengthen alumni and community partnerships to build a sustainable local leadership pipeline.
- Act as a thought leader in Hawai‘i’s education sector, influencing the conversation around education and economic mobility.
Skill & Experience
- 10+ years of leadership experience, including organizational and fiscal management.
- Deep passion for educational equity and alignment with Teach For America’s mission and values.
- Strong strategic thinking with proven success in leading teams to measurable outcomes.
- Experience in education policy, coalition-building, and community-driven change.
- Exceptional fundraising skills, with the ability to develop strong donor and partner relationships.
- Outstanding communication and advocacy skills, with the ability to inspire and mobilize stakeholders.
- Deep understanding of Hawai‘i’s education system, local policies, and community needs.
- Ability to travel frequently within Hawai‘i, including neighbor islands.
Bonus Skills
- Experience leading large-scale education initiatives or nonprofit organizations.
- Track record of successful fundraising campaigns and strategic financial management.
- Strong networks in Hawai‘i’s education, government, and philanthropic sectors.