Chief Executive Officer

Kauai Economic Opportunity, a respected, mission-driven nonprofit serving Kauai residents, is seeking their next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This a role for a leader with strong operational and financial management experience, a background in human services or communitybased organizations, and the ability to build trust and lead through change.

Position Overview

Kauai Economic Opportunity is seeking a CEO to lead the organization through a period of stabilization, renewal, and long‑term growth. The organization delivers a range of essential community and human services and works closely with government partners, funders, and community stakeholders to improve economic opportunity and self‑sufficiency on the island.

This role calls for a visible, hands‑on leader who can strengthen operations, rebuild trust internally and externally, and align programs, funding, and people around a clear mission and measurable outcomes. The CEO will partner closely with a committed Board of Directors to further strengthen and expand the organization’s impact and long-term success. The position is full‑time and on‑site on Kauai.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall strategic, operational, and cultural leadership for the organization
• Partner with the Board to set priorities, strengthen governance, and ensure transparency and accountability
• Oversee day‑to‑day operations, ensuring programs are effective, compliant, and aligned with mission outcomes
• Lead and support a management team and staff, building morale, trust, and organizational culture
• Ensure sound financial stewardship, including budgeting, fiscal oversight, and responsible use of public and private funds
• Strengthen fundraising, grant writing, and funding diversification to support long‑term sustainability
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, funders, community partners, and other stakeholders
• Serve as a visible spokesperson and representative of the organization within the community
• Lead organizational planning efforts and help translate strategy into measurable impact

Skills

• Executive leadership in mission‑driven, nonprofit, or public‑sector environments
• Organizational turnaround or change leadership
• Strong operational and financial management skills
• Experience managing government contracts, grants, and compliance requirements
• Fundraising and grant writing experience
• Ability to build trust, improve communication, and strengthen organizational culture
• Strong relationship‑building skills with boards, staff, funders, and community partners
• Clear, confident communication and leadership presence
• Entrepreneurial, adaptive approach to leadership

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and senior leadership experience
• Senior leadership experience in a nonprofit, public agency, or mission‑driven organization
• Demonstrated experience overseeing complex programs, operations, and teams
• Strong background in financial oversight and organizational management
• Experience working with government funding and public‑sector partners
• Ability to be present, engaged, and on‑site as a visible leader
• Understanding of, or ability to quickly build trust within, island or community‑based environments
• Experience in human services or community‑based organizations strongly preferred