Chief Public Affairs Officer

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Chief Public Affairs Officer to join our team at W. M. Keck Observatory. As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, you will play a critical role in shaping and implementing our Community Astronomy Model, fostering strong relationships with community members, leaders, and the global astronomy community.

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance mutual understanding and respect between W. M. Keck Observatory and the diverse communities of Hawaii and beyond.
• Cultivate and maintain robust relationships with community members, leaders, government officials, and the global astronomy community.
• Develop frameworks and programs that ensure a collaborative approach to astronomy in Hawaiʻi inclusive of these communities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance our mission and achieve our goals.
• Provide strategic communications, public relations, and media support to ensure effective messaging and outreach.

• Bachelor's degree in public affairs or a relevant field from an accredited college or university.
• 3-5 years of executive-level leadership experience.
• Strong strategic thinking with a systems-oriented approach.
• Demonstrated experience in program and project development.
• Experience in governmental affairs.
• 3-5 years of experience in management and personnel supervision.
• Proven track record in managing six to seven-figure budgets.
• Established, good reputation in Hawaiʻi.
• Exceptional writing skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal skills - conveys complex ideas clearly and succinctly.

• Experience working with science or technical organizations.
• Extensive network in Hawaii.
• Familiarity with Hawaiʻi's cultural customs and norms; some level of proficiency in ʻOlelo Hawaiʻi is a plus.
• Experience with or knowledge of theory of change model.
• Experience with strategic communications, public relations, and/or media.
• Experience in crisis management and crisis communication.