Director of Institutional & External 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.