Chief Executive Officer

Inkinen Executive Search; Lihue (HI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Inkinen Executive Search is hiring a Chief Executive Officer for Kauai Humane Society in Lihue, Hawaii. This role requires a hands-on leader to guide the organization through growth while overseeing operations, financial sustainability, and team performance.

The ideal candidate will have significant nonprofit experience, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to animal welfare. Responsibilities include driving strategic direction, fundraising, and fostering a positive culture.

Qualifications

• 7-10 years of leadership experience managing teams.
• Experience in nonprofit management and fundraising.
• Ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of staff and volunteers.
• Oversee daily operations and programs.
• Drive fundraising efforts and community engagement.

Skills

Executive leadership

Change management

Communication skills

Financial management

Team development

Fundraising experience

Strategic thinking

Problem-solving

Emotional intelligence

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Job description

The Chief Executive Officer is a hands‑on operational leader, with change management, team leadership, and fundraising experience, a strong background in nonprofit organizations, and the ability to build trust and lead through change.

Position Overview

Kauai Humane Society seeks a dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead the organization through a critical period of growth and transformation. As the island’s primary provider of animal welfare services, including sheltering, adoption, and community programs, the organization plays a vital role in supporting both animals and the broader community.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will oversee all operations, financial sustainability, and team performance while strengthening organizational culture, improving fundraising effectiveness, and establishing a clear strategic direction. This role requires a hands‑on, collaborative leader who can rebuild trust, unify teams, and drive both day‑to‑day execution and long‑term impact.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the organization
• Lead and develop a team of staff and volunteers, fostering a positive and accountable culture
• Oversee daily operations, programs, and service delivery to ensure alignment with mission
• Build strong relationships with the Board of Directors, community stakeholders, donors, and partners
• Drive fundraising efforts, including donor engagement, grants, and community‑based initiatives
• Ensure sound financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and oversight of a ~$4M budget
• Develop and implement organizational strategies and long‑term plans
• Strengthen internal communication, performance management, and team accountability
• Serve as the primary public representative and advocate for the organization’s mission
• Oversee external communications, including public relations, marketing, and community outreach

Skills

• Strong executive leadership and team development capabilities
• Ability to lead through change, rebuild culture, and manage organizational challenges
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills
• Strategic thinker with hands‑on operational execution skills
• Financial acumen, including budgeting and nonprofit revenue management
• Experience in fundraising, donor relations, and community engagement
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities
• High emotional intelligence, with the ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of professional experience
• 7-10 years of leadership experience
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and organizational operations
• Experience in nonprofit management, including financial oversight and fundraising
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to operate effectively in a high‑responsibility, high‑visibility role
• Willingness to actively participate in fundraising and community engagement efforts
• Experience in mission‑driven organizations; animal welfare experience is a plus