Chief Public Affairs Officer

Full time Regular Employment at W. M. Keck Observatory

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Summary

Are you passionate about a positive future in which astronomy thrives in mutuality, respect, and interdependence with Maunakea and the communities in relationship with Maunakea? Do you have a knack for building strong relationships and facilitating positive change across complex systems? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you at the W. M. Keck Observatory in beautiful Hawaii!

How the Chief Public Affairs Officer operates:

Using a collaborative approach, the Chief Public Affairs Officer will be instrumental in shaping, cultivating and maintaining robust relationships with community members, leaders, government officials, and the global astronomy community. The Chief Public Affairs Officer enhances mutual understanding and fosters respectful connections between W. M. Keck Observatory and the diverse communities of Hawaii and beyond and develops frameworks and programs that ensure a collaborative approach to astronomy in Hawaiʻi inclusive of these communities.

Reporting to the Observatory Director and serving as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Chief Public Affairs Officer will be at the forefront of shaping and implementing a Community Astronomy Model for W. M. Keck Observatory. The successful Chief Public Affairs Officer will be a dynamic and visionary leader who excels at adaptive change and possesses a high level of social intelligence. They are equally adept at building relationships person-by-person as they are at public speaking, capable of handling controversial subject matters with tact, sensitivity, and authenticity.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in public affairs or 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.

Additional Information

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:

• Competitive starting salary ranging from $171,000 to $214,485.
• Generous benefits package, including 4 weeks of annual paid vacation.
• A robust 8% 403(b) employer contribution (with a 4% employee contribution).
• Tuition assistance for dependent children grades K-12 attending an independent school on Hawai’i island.
• Comprehensive, employer provided health insurance.
• Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

About W. M. Keck Observatory