Executive Director

Under the general guidance of Tribal Council, the Executive Director advances the Tribe’s strategic priorities by serving as the lead administrative and executive staff to the Tribal Council. This position directs and oversees implementation of Tribal Council directives, administration of all program grants, management of Tribal government programs and staff, and fiscal oversight to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and funding requirements.

The Executive Director provides organizational leadership, supports Tribal governance, and ensures effective alignment between Council priorities and daily operations. The Executive Director oversees all Tribal operations, including program administration, financial management, and staff leadership.

This role plays a key part in advancing Tribal sovereignty, strengthening intergovernmental relationships, supporting economic and infrastructure development, and integrating Iñupiaq values into organizational leadership and decision-making.

The Executive Director is responsible for guiding the overall direction, stability, and long-term sustainability of the organization while upholding the Tribe’s mission, vision, and values. This position ensures efficient administrative operations while minimizing the need for Tribal Council involvement in routine management functions.

• Provides overall organizational leadership by setting direction, making high-level decisions, and ensuring alignment between Tribal Council priorities and daily operations.
• Exercises executive authority over daily operations while ensuring alignment with Tribal Council direction.
• Leads development and evaluation of short- and long-term strategic objectives and organizational priorities; evaluates risk and impact of proposed programs and initiatives.
• Ensures Tribal Council is kept informed of significant operations, risks, and strategic matters requiring oversight, while limiting involvement in routine administrative functions.
• Plans, formulates, and recommends policies, procedures, and programs to implement Council directives.
• Oversees the operation of all Tribal departments, ensuring effective program delivery, accountability, and fulfillment of contractual obligations.
• Reviews program performance, contracts, and resource allocation to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Serves as facilitator in the negotiation and execution of grants, contracts, and agreements as authorized by Tribal Council.
• Plans and administers official meetings, including staff and organizational meetings.
• Establishes and maintains an effective organizational structure and administrative systems.
• Directs and coordinates major programs, projects, and organizational initiatives.
• Leads and supports economic development and infrastructure initiatives.
• Identifies and pursues funding opportunities aligned with Tribal priorities.
• Coordinates development projects with internal departments and external partners.
• Facilitates development and management of departmental and organizational budgets and presents budgets for Council approval.
• Oversees expenditures and safeguards Tribal funds, assets, and resources.
• Ensures all programs and operations comply with Tribal, federal, and state regulations, funding requirements, and policies.
• Prepares and delivers clear and concise reports for Tribal Council and external partners.
• Establishes and maintains effective communication across departments, leadership, and the community.
• Serves as liaison to governmental agencies, partners, and stakeholders.
• Represents the Tribe at local, regional, state, and national meetings, conferences, and engagements.
• Maintains current knowledge of relevant regulations, funding requirements, and best practices.
• Enhances professional development through participation in training, workshops, and conferences.
• Delegates operational responsibilities to department directors to ensure efficiency and accountability.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Directly supervises senior leadership staff, including but not limited to:
  Deputy Executive Director (if funded), Finance Director, Executive Manager, Environmental Director, TFS…