Job Description

Executive Director, Center for Native American Youth

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just, and equitable society. Since its founding in 1949, the Institute has been driving change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the most critical challenges facing communities in the United States and around the world. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, and an international network of partners.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

To achieve our mission of a more free, just, and equitable society, we commit to working proactively to advance the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion across our myriad endeavors such as the recruitment, compensation, training, and advancement of staff. Visit our website to learn more about our commitment and recent actions taken toward building and nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment.

Center for Native American Youth (CNAY)

Founded in 2011, the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) at the Aspen Institute is a national education and advocacy organization that works alongside Native youth ages 24 and under on reservations, in rural villages, and urban spaces across the country to improve their health, safety, and overall well-being.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

The Aspen Institute is seeking an Executive Director to lead the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY), a dynamic and impactful Native American youth leadership development and advocacy organization. The Executive Director will be a strategic thinker and strong manager who can work closely with Native youth, Tribal leaders, and community stakeholders to design programs driven by a collective vision rooted in the values of Native and Indigenous cultures. The Executive Director will manage a full-time staff of 5, serve as the lead fundraiser for the Program, and be a key external representative for the organization. The candidate must have strong management skills and be able to effectively manage a small staff, including individuals who work remotely. A good understanding of policy issues of importance to Indian Country and relationships with tribal communities is essential. The candidate must be willing to travel to Tribal communities throughout the country and coordinate events focused on uplifting Native youth voices.

This role will report to the Executive Vice President of Policy Programs, and work in close coordination with the Aspen Institute Center for Rising Generations. The salary range for the position is $175,000 - $200,000. This is a Washington, D.C., based position that will report to the leadership of Aspen Digital. Employees are expected to work in person at the office approximately two days a week.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Strategic Leadership and Management

1. Effectively recruit and manage a small but passionate staff, focusing on teamwork and inclusion.
2. Identify strategic opportunities to expand the impact of CNAY.
3. Collaborate with the CNAY Advisory Board and stakeholders to set a strategic vision.
4. Manage relationships with nonprofit counterparts and federal officials.

Communication Skills

1. Develop a communications plan that raises the external profile of CNAY.
2. Communicate with CNAY’s national network of Native youth leaders.
3. Consult with Aspen executive staff and the CNAY Board on Program goals.

Development and Financial Management

1. Develop and implement a strategic action and fundraising plan.
2. Ensure fiscal stability through budget management.
3. Cultivate relationships with key donors and foundations.

Program Implementation & Execution Content

1. Oversee the CNAY team’s design and execution of key programs.
2. Work closely with the Youth Advisory Board to identify key issues.
3. Build coalitions that support Native youth priorities.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO THRIVE

Bachelor’s Degree required; ten or more years of experience with a focus on Native American youth development and program management is required. Current knowledge of:

• Issues of importance to Native American youth, including relevant statistics and trends.
• Federal, tribal, state, and local policies related to tribal communities.

Experience leading teams, raising funds, and managing budgets is essential. A strong understanding of policy issues important to Indian Country and relationships with tribal leaders is required. Ability to travel approximately 20% of the time.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants should apply through the Aspen Institute portal. A cover letter is required; applications without cover letters will not be considered.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Aspen Institute offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits. The Aspen Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected status.

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