Native Arts, Language, and Knowledge Senior Program Officer

First Nations Development Institute (First Nations) is a 45‑year‑old Native American controlled nonprofit organization whose mission is to uplift and sustain the lifeways and economies of Native communities through advocacy, financial support, and knowledge sharing.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Program Officer is responsible for the planning, implementation, and management of one or more initiatives and projects under the Native Arts, Language, and Knowledge Program. The priority initiative will be the Native Fundraisers Community of Practice, a multi‑year, complex project that the Senior Program Officer will lead and direct the efforts of program officers and program associates on various aspects of this project by providing direction, setting goals, giving feedback, coaching, and ensuring professional development and training. The Senior Program Officer handles management and supervision of consultants and/or any direct reports. The successful candidate should be self‑motivated and able to implement projects from start to finish with minimal supervision in a fast‑paced work environment. The role works in close collaboration with the leadership team, other program staff, the finance department, and development, grantmaking, and communications staff.

COVID-19 VACCINATION POLICY

First Nations is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and follows CDC COVID‑19 vaccination guidance. We reserve the right to request proof of COVID‑19 vaccination, and similar vaccines, from candidates and employees as part of the hiring process, in accordance with applicable laws and company policy.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Provides strategic thought leadership for program projects with a focus on the Native Fundraisers Community of Practice. Performs overall planning and management of the Native Fundraisers Community of Practice, including: Development of the overall project plan, with key milestones, resources, and timelines. Management and implementation of all aspects of the project (evaluation design, grant monitoring, financial monitoring, and reporting). Design of in‑person cohort trainings and convenings (meeting objectives, agendas, logistics). Management and implementation of the recruitment and selection process for cohort candidates. Timely and accurate reporting to funders. Act as the main project liaison with finance, grantmaking, and communications departments to ensure comprehensive reporting and compliance. Participation in stakeholder conversations that support participants. Participation in related grant writing, fundraising, and narrative change opportunities. Works with the program director to identify new and creative project strategies. Supervises current or future direct reports by setting direction and goals, providing feedback and coaching on performance, conducting annual evaluations, and ensuring professional and career development as appropriate. May be required to perform other job‑related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree. Demonstrated mastery of Senior Program Officer functions and competencies. Extensive external peer network. Experience managing a cohort or community of practice model and portfolio of grantees. Experience participating in a cohort or community of practice model. Experience supporting emerging Native leaders in building capacity around fundraising and strengths‑based communications. Availability to travel frequently as needed (up to 2–3 times monthly on average).

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS

Master’s degree. Minimum of two years of experience in a supervisory role. 7‑10 years of relevant experience. At least five years of experience working in a nonprofit organization or as a grantmaker/grantseeker. Knowledge of nonprofit capacity building, program administration, project management, and financial management principles and techniques. Supervisory/management experience.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

Experience working with diverse cultures/audiences, specifically American Indian, Alaska Native, and/or Native Hawaiian communities and cultures. Expertise in project and program management. Strong computer skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams). Experience with virtual presentation platforms (e.g., Zoom). Strong written and verbal communication skills. Strong customer service focus, centering First Nations’ values of kindness, respect, and trust. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills. Competent self‑starter who takes initiative and works independently. Strong administrative ability with keen attention to detail. Ability to organize and meet deadlines for a variety of assignments simultaneously, with minimal supervision. Ability to present and facilitate small and large audiences in training or conference settings. Positive attitude, good teamwork skills, and ability to work closely with people at all levels.

MEASURES OF SUCCESS

Project timelines and expectations are met. Budget parameters are met. Evaluations represent expected project outcomes, value, and program impact. Effective resource allocation. Adherence to First Nations’ Core Values & Guiding Principles. Direct reports receive frequent feedback, coaching, annual evaluations, training, and development.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and using a computer. Moderate office‑environment noise. Regular interaction with employees and others (talk, see, hear). Occasional walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, and crawling. Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry objects up to 15 pounds on occasion. Availability to travel occasionally. Hybrid work arrangement. First Nations Development Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr tendersglobal