Director, Native Hawaiian Partnerships & Policy

Kamehameha Schools; Plaza (ND); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Kamehameha Schools seeks a Director of Strategic Partnerships and Government Relations to lead policy and partnership strategies advancing Pauahi’s mission and priorities. The role shapes government relations, builds high-impact alliances, and directs advocacy efforts to influence systems change.

The leader collaborates with KS divisions and external partners to align messaging, policy, and enterprise initiatives, ensuring KS is positioned for culture-based educational excellence, sustainable

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in public policy, government relations, urban planning, Hawaiian studies, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in government relations, strategic partnerships, and advocacy.
• Demonstrated ability to influence decision-makers and mobilize collective action.
• Experience managing teams and coordinating across multiple divisions.
• Strong understanding of Hawaii’s legislative, regulatory, and community landscapes.

Responsibilities

• Translate KS strategic priorities into a unified strategy for partnerships, advocacy, and government relations.
• Lead and align external initiatives with enterprise priorities for unified messaging.
• Prepare policy analyses, recommendations, and briefing materials for leadership.
• Build trusted relationships with public officials to advance policies supporting Native Hawaiian education and development.
• Oversee contracted lobbyists and advocacy partners to ensure alignment with KS values.

Skills

Strategic partnerships

Government relations

Advocacy

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Government Relations, Urban Planning, Hawaiian Studies, or related field

Master’s or terminal degree preferred

Job description

Kamehameha Schools seeks a Director of Strategic Partnerships and Government Relations to lead policy and partnership strategies advancing Pauahi’s mission and priorities. The role shapes government relations, builds high-impact alliances, and directs advocacy efforts to influence systems change.

The leader collaborates with KS divisions and external partners to align messaging, policy, and enterprise initiatives, ensuring KS is positioned for culture-based educational excellence, sustainable