Yah Leadership Program

About the Role

Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI) is seeking a talented candidate to join the Yah (Dena'ina: "grow") Leadership Program. This multi-year program is designed to provide CIRI Shareholders and confirmed Descendants professional growth, senior and executive leadership-level development, and expand CIRI and its affiliates' senior and executive leadership talent pool.

During the program's first year, the successful candidate will be placed at CIRI and directly report to the CEO. A CIRI executive will be assigned as a mentor, and an individual development plan will be created based on the candidate’s interests and skills. The program includes exposure to executive-level leadership skills, CIRI’s business lines, strategy, operations, and ANCSA/mission-critical programs. The candidate will support the executive leadership team (ELT), serve as a liaison, oversee special projects, and represent CIRI at business, community, and Shareholder/Descendant events.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a bridge for communication between the executive leadership team and internal CIRI departments, maintaining credibility, trust, and support among staff and leadership.
• Work closely with the executive leadership team, including managing special projects.
• Participate as an adjunct member of the executive leadership team, including scheduling and attending meetings.
• Ensure the executive leadership team is well-informed and prepared for upcoming meetings and commitments.
• Prioritize conflicting needs and handle matters expeditiously, including sensitive or confidential issues.
• Draft correspondence and reports as needed.
• Coordinate strategic communications with the communications team for diverse audiences.
• Follow up on contacts made by the executive leadership team.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships within CIRI, with affiliated entities, business partners, and the community.
• Support education efforts related to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) and CIRI’s history.
• Participate in learning opportunities to enhance skills.
• Attend ELT, Board, and Shareholder meetings and events.
• Travel frequently with the executive leadership team.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Understand CIRI’s mission, vision, values, and strategic focus areas, and incorporate this knowledge into daily activities.
• General understanding of the history and compliance requirements of the SBA 8(a) program.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to make decisions involving strategic thinking, problem-solving, and sound judgment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational and follow-up skills, with attention to accuracy and detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to present information and respond sensitively to questions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and industry-standard software.
• Strong leadership, supervisory, management, and mentoring skills.
• High degree of sensitivity regarding confidential information.
• Ability to travel as necessary.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Master’s degree in business or an advanced degree in a relevant field preferred.
• Seven or more years of experience in business, organizational leadership, finance, operations, legal, or a related field.
• Two years of supervisory experience.
• Work experience illustrating knowledge of ANCSA and/or Alaska Native cultures preferred.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance.
• Ability to pass a background and driving record check.

Physical Abilities

• Sufficient fine motor skills for extended computer and calculator use.
• Visual and communication ability adequate to perform essential job functions.
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle and fly by commercial or small aircraft.
• Ability to kneel, bend, and twist at the waist occasionally.
• Ability to reach below shoulder height regularly and at or above shoulder height occasionally.
• Ability to push, pull, carry, and lift objects weighing up to 20 pounds occasionally.

Benefits

• Paid holidays and paid time off.
• 401K with employer match.
• Dental, vision, and health insurance plans through the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
• Life and disability benefits.

Schedule

During year one of the program, the position may be based in Anchorage, Washington, D.C., or work remotely.