Executive Director

Surfrider Spirit Sessions; Kailua (HI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Surfrider Spirit Sessions (SSS) is seeking an Executive Director to provide strategic leadership while remaining actively engaged in programs and day-to-day operations. Working with the Board, staff, volunteers and partners, you will lead fundraising, communications, and long-term sustainability.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years of nonprofit leadership, strong relationships in Hawaii communities, and a passion for youth development and ocean-focused programs. Weekend hours may be required.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of leadership in nonprofit management including strategic planning, fundraising, budgeting and staff supervision.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic nonprofit environment.
• Familiarity with Hawaii's local culture and business/community networks.
• Excellent written, verbal, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
• Bachelor's degree or higher; Marketing, Communications, Business, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and day-to-day management.
• Lead fundraising efforts and communications for the organization.
• Oversee program effectiveness, organizational development and long-term sustainability.
• Collaborate with Board, staff, volunteers and community partners.
• Support youth development and ocean-focused community initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Fundraising

Budgeting

Staff supervision

Public speaking

Relationship building

Strategic planning

Community engagement

Multi-tasking

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Related field preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Adobe Acrobat

QuickBooks

Mac computers

Job description

Since 2006, Surfrider Spirit Sessions (SSS) has used surfing, mentoring, and community engagement to help adjudicated and at-risk youth build confidence, develop life and pre-employment skills, embrace healthy lifestyles, and become part of positive, productive communities.

Position Overview:

SSS is seeking a mission-driven Executive Director to provide strategic leadership while remaining actively engaged in programs and day-to-day operations. Working closely with the Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, staff, volunteers, and community partners, the Executive Director will lead organizational development, program effectiveness, fundraising, communications, and long-term sustainability.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of leadership experience in business or nonprofit management, including strategic planning, fundraising, budgeting, and supervision of staff and volunteers.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic nonprofit environment.
• Familiarity with Hawaii's local culture and business/community networks.
• Excellent written, verbal, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
• Bachelor's degree or higher; Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Strong commitment to the SSS mission and serving youth.
• Ability to work weekends and irregular hours as needed.
• Comfortable in an ocean-focused environment; intermediate or advanced surfing ability is a plus.
• CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a plus.
• Previous experience as an SSS mentor, instructor, or volunteer is a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Adobe Acrobat, QuickBooks and Mac computers.

The ideal Executive Director is a hands‑on nonprofit leader, relationship builder, fundraiser, and strategic thinker who combines strong business and organizational skills with a genuine passion for youth development, community service, and the ocean.