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The Hopi Foundation Seeks Executive Director

Executive Director Role

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of The Hopi Foundation, providing visionary leadership and strategic direction while overseeing the organization's daily operations. Guided by the Hopi values of Kyavtsi, Sumi'nangwa, Nami'nangwa, Hita'nangwa, and Pasi'Nangwa, the Executive Director fosters a culture of integrity, collaboration, service, and community impact throughout the organization.

"A Hopi" - Values provided by Stanford Lomakema

 

Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director shares responsibility for advancing the Foundation's mission, vision, and long-term strategic goals. This role provides leadership to the Administrative Leadership Team and staff, ensuring effective management of programs, operations, and organizational resources while maintaining accountability and excellence across all areas of the Foundation.

The Executive Director is responsible for strengthening the organization's financial sustainability through fundraising, resource development, grant management, strategic partnerships, and program growth. The position also leads internal and external communications efforts, promotes innovation and the effective use of technology, and cultivates strong relationships with community members, partners, donors, and stakeholders.

As the Foundation's primary leader and ambassador, the Executive Director inspires and empowers staff, supports organizational growth, and ensures The Hopi Foundation remains a trusted and impactful force in strengthening lives, deepening connections, and serving Hopi and Tewa communities for generations to come.​

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Key Responsibilities 

The Executive Director has ongoing responsibility for the following:

 

LEADERSHIP AND VISION

  • Work in partnership with the board and staff to continue HF growth;

  • Diversify and expand the HF donor base with new fundraising strategies that increase the organization's revenues;

  • Initiate and strengthen relationships with organizations and leaders who share HF’s mission and purpose; and

  • Serve as an articulate marketer, communicator, and spokesperson for the HF mission.

 

ADMINISTRATION

  • Provide oversight to regulatory compliance with IRS and the State of Arizona.

  • Oversee the organization's financial operations, including budgeting, financial controls, and proper expenditure of funds;

  • Ensure professional and efficient day-to-day program and administrative operations;

  • Develop and motivate staff, delegating appropriately and ensuring strong internal communication and coordination; recruit new staff when appropriate, and evaluate performance; enhance opportunities for personal and professional development; and

  • Assist the Development Team with the design and implementation of effective communications strategies with the Program Directors and Managers.

 

BOARD & MEMBER RELATIONS

  • Work with the HF Membership to coordinate board appointments and nominations;

  • Work with the Board to identify and recruit new members and increase commitment to further the HF mission and expand fundraising;

  • Regularly brief Trustees on the organization’s status; enhance participation in planning, visibility and fundraising; and

  • Coordinate and plan board meetings

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PUBLIC RELATIONS

  • Raises awareness of the programs of HF to key stakeholders, including media, program sponsors, educational community, community leaders and local and outside philanthropic communities;

  • Generates media exposure through press releases, annual reports and other forms of media.

  • Promotes HF to schools, civic organizations, and businesses via presentations and meetings.

  • Serve as a spokesperson to communicate with the media and public about The Hopi Foundation and its Programs.

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RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

  • Assist the Development Team with coordination and training for Program Directors, Managers, and staff in program capacity-building strategies;

  • Work with the Financial Team to develop/review financial strategies for program sustainability, capacity building, and growth.

  • Support the Program Team in monitoring and assisting programs with implementing strategic planning and development activities on a continual basis.

  • Support the Development Team in their efforts to make use of emerging technology to engage and educate members and other donors committed to community-based philanthropy.

  • Assist in leveraging support from community and government services for project-based activities.

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SPECIAL EVENTS/OTHER

  • Support and assist in event planning for all Program activities and development-related events.

  • Attend and participate in all Hopi Foundation events.

  • Perform other duties assigned and assist with special projects as needed. 

Executive Director Application Information & Instructions

Salary Range: $75,000 – $95,000; salaried position depending on experience, plus benefits.  Basic fringe benefits will be provided. Dental and vision insurance may be available.

 

To Apply: If you are interested in this rewarding opportunity, email a complete application packet to edsearch@hopifoundation.org.  A complete application for the Executive Director position includes the following items:

  • A completed Hopi Foundation job application. Your resume does not replace the requirement to complete the HF job application in full. Writing 'See Resume' in place of completing any section of the application is not acceptable.

  • Current Resume – must include work experience for the last 15 years

  • 2-3 Letters of Recommendation – One letter should address your experience and experience relevant to this non-profit Executive Director role. The focus of additional letters should speak to your character as a leader and your experience with community involvement.

  • 3 references – must not be related to you or have submitted a recommendation letter on your behalf for this position.

 

Application Deadline: 5:00 pm(MST); Friday, September 25, 2026

 

Application packets will be screened according to the qualifications listed above. The most qualified candidates will be invited to a first in-person interview at The Hopi Foundation office in Kykotsmovi, AZ. Top candidates will be invited to further interviews. Reference checks will be completed for all qualified candidates. Additional interview details will be sent via email when interviews are scheduled.

 

For inquires, contact our ED Search consultant via email at: edsearch@hopifoundation.org 

APPLICATIONS

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Screenshot 2024-07-16 145956.png

Completed applications can be submitted to:

Laurel Sekakuku at edsearch@hopifoundation.org

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