Director of Lands & Shareholder Relations

Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation, LLC

Director of Lands & Shareholder Relations

Closing Date: Until Filled

Department: Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation - Kotzebue, AK

Location: Kotzebue, AK, USA

Employment Type: Full Time

Title: Director of Lands & Shareholder Relations

Location: Kotzebue, AK

Status: Full-Time

The Director of Lands & Shareholder Relations provides executive-level leadership and oversight of KIC's Shareholder Relations programs and land management functions, serving as a key leader of programs that support the long-term well-being, opportunity, and engagement of KIC Shareholders and their descendants. This position is responsible for advancing Shareholder relations strategy, communication, services, and program development while ensuring responsible stewardship, development, and protection of KIC's land assets.

This role leads the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of Shareholder programs, including internships, scholarships, workforce development, communications, and community engagement initiatives. The Director ensures accurate administration of Shareholder records, stock processes, and related services, while strengthening relationships between Shareholders, leadership, and the Corporation through transparent, responsive, and culturally grounded engagement.

Building on KIC's ANCSA land entitlement of over 200,000 acres and continued land acquisitions, the Director leads strategic land initiatives, regulatory compliance, and land use planning in alignment with corporate goals and Shareholder priorities.

This role works closely with the President & CEO, COO, Board of Directors, Policy Committee, Land Committee, and external agencies to guide decision-making, maximize land and program value, and uphold the cultural values of the Iñupiat people.

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of Shareholder Relations programs, aligning initiatives with organizational goals and Board priorities.
• Serve as an advisor to the President & CEO and Board of Directors on Shareholder matters and engagement strategies.
• Oversee programs including internships, scholarships, workforce development, and outreach initiatives.
• Ensure accurate administration of Shareholder records, stock ownership, estate settlements, and related policies.
• Lead Shareholder communications and engagement efforts, including annual meetings, reports, newsletters, and digital platforms.

• Direct the management, stewardship, and development of KIC land assets, including ANCSA and acquired lands.
• Oversee land acquisition, disposition, and agreements, including leases, easements, permits, and material sales, ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies on land title, permitting, and compliance matters.
• Manage field operations and land monitoring activities, including data collection and reporting using GIS/GPS systems.
• Ensure environmental compliance, land protection, and safety standards across all land operations.

• Lead departmental operations, including budgeting, staff supervision, and program oversight.
• Supervise and mentor staff, including Lands Specialist and Board Coordinator / Shareholder Relations Specialist.
• Coordinate with internal departments, contractors, and external partners to support projects and initiatives.
• Represent KIC with Shareholders, agencies, and partners.
• Prepare reports, analysis, and recommendations for executive leadership and the Board.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources (e.g., wildlife biology, fisheries biology, forestry, or natural resource management), Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in land management, natural resources, Shareholder relations, or related program leadership.
• 3+ years of supervisory or executive-level leadership experience managing teams, budgets, and complex programs.
• Strong knowledge of Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), and related land regulations.
• Experience in land acquisition, leasing, permitting, resource development, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven ability to develop and execute long-range strategic plans and manage multiple large-scale initiatives.
• Experience working with Alaska Native Corporations, tribal organizations, or rural Alaska communities preferred.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and oversight of operational and program funds.
• Familiarity with GIS/GPS systems, land mapping tools, and Microsoft Office Suite (or similar productivity software).
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to work effectively with Boards, agencies, and community partners.

The work environment characteristics described…