Director of Strategic Initiatives

Position Summary

The Director of Strategic Initiatives provides leadership and coordination for high-priority projects and board governance activities, aligned with CRIHB’s purpose and strategic goals. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, this position serves as a key advisor and project lead for initiatives that advance organizational performance, strengthen governance practices, and enhance stakeholder engagement. The role requires exceptional organizational, analytical, and interpersonal skills to manage complex projects, support board operations, and ensure compliance with governance standards.

Essential Functions

1. Lead strategic initiatives assigned by the CEO, ensuring timely execution and measurable outcomes.
2. Oversee board governance processes, including preparation of board materials, compliance with bylaws, and coordination of board meetings.
3. Operate as a Tribal liaison to the Tribal Government Consultation Committee. 
4. Create and maintain contacts with all members and participating Tribal governments.
5. Serve as liaison between the CEO and the Board of Directors, fostering effective communication and alignment on priorities.
6. Monitor and report on the progress of special projects, identifying risks and recommending solutions.
7. Ensure adherence to governance best practices and regulatory requirements applicable to Tribal health organizations.
8. Collaborate with executive leadership to develop proposals addressing unmet health needs and strategic opportunities.
9. Lead meetings with external partners, including but not limited to fundraising and partnership agreements. 
10. Regular and predictable attendance. 
11. Perform other relevant duties as required and assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

1. Maintain a valid, unrestricted driver’s license and insurability under CRIHB’s automobile insurance.
2. Occasional overnight travel within CRIHB’s service area.
3. Ability to drive up to seven (7) hours per day.

Qualifications

CRIHB recognizes that an equivalent combination of education, training, and progressively responsible leadership experience may be considered. A high school diploma or equivalent is required for all applicants.

1. Education and Experience Requirements
   • Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Public Health, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field; and
   • Ten (10) years of progressively responsible leadership experience, including:
     • Multi-department or cross-functional oversight
     • Fiscal and operational accountability
     • At least three (3) years in a supervisory or management role at the mid-level to executive level.

Applicants who do not possess a bachelor’s degree (but meet the high school minimum requirement) must have at least sixteen (16) years of progressively responsible leadership experience demonstrating comparable scope and responsibility. This must include at least four (4) years involving multi-departmental or cross-agency oversight.

1. Preferred Qualification

• Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Public Health, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Demonstrate strong financial, operational, and people management skills in project oversight.
2. Maintain confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive organizational and board matters.
3. Expertise in Robert’s Rules of Order for producing comprehensive meeting minutes.
4. Utilize technology and online platforms to enhance board engagement and information dissemination.
5. Leadership and Program Management

1. Demonstrated success in senior-level management, including agency-wide strategic initiatives, strategic planning, and board governance.
2. Proven ability to oversee multiple programs and departments, ensuring compliance with applicable requirements.
3. Strong organizational and leadership skills with experience in team development, capacity building, and continuous quality improvement.
4. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with Tribal governments and clinics, community partners, and applicable agencies.
5. Excellent time management and prioritization abilities, with the capacity to manage competing deadlines and high-pressure demands.
6. Deadline-driven in an urgent environment with competing priorities.

6.Technical Expertise

1. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with an in-depth ability to anticipate challenges, identify systemic barriers, and implement innovative, data-informed solutions.
2. Experience using performance measurement, data analysis, and data visualization tools (e.g., dashboards) to inform executive decision-making.
3. Exceptional interpersonal and collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams and with individuals at all organizational levels.
4. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively under pressure while managing multiple priorities and constituencies.

7. General Requirements

1. Advanced verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
2. Experience with Tribal health systems, nonprofit organizations, or the public sector preferred.
3. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Office 365, and other relevant administrative or data management tools.
4. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy and accountability.
5. Commitment to integrity, equity, and American Indian self-determination.

Cultural Competency

This position requires an awareness and a profound respect for American Indian/Alaska Native traditions, customs, and socioeconomic contexts. It also requires the ability to work effectively with Tribal organizations, demonstrating tact, courtesy, discretion, resourcefulness, and sound judgment when handling sensitive matters.

Indian Preference

Preference in hiring is extended to qualified American Indians or Alaska Native applicants in accordance with CRIHB’s Indian Preference policy, as provided under Title 25 U.S.C. § 5307(b). This policy ensures that qualified Native applicants receive priority consideration in the hiring process. However, the final selection is based on a comprehensive evaluation of all candidates’ qualifications, experience, and alignment with the specific needs of the position. Applicants claiming Indian Preference must submit verifiable documentation of their status, such as certification from their Tribe of affiliation or other acceptable proof of Indian heritage as required by CRIHB.

Notice: Sovereign Immunity

Please take notice that sovereign immunity extends to CRIHB as an inter-tribal organization and arm of its consortium tribes and Tribal organizations. CRIHB is not governed by California’s labor laws, including the state’s wage and hour laws or its Family Medical Leave, and Pregnancy Leave laws and regulations. CRIHB’s utilization of certain state family medical and pregnancy leave benefits, or any other benefit, is discretionary and shall not be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity of CRIHB. CRIHB may provide information and documents that reference state laws or regulations from time to time, and in the event of inconsistency or conflict, CRIHB’s policy shall govern. CRIHB disclaims jurisdiction of any state enforcement. Nothing herein or otherwise shall be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity of CRIHB.