Honolulu, Hawaii
Posted: 16-Mar-26
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii
Type: Full Time
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About the School
Hanahau‘oli School is an extraordinary independent elementary school in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, with a century-long legacy of progressive education rooted in joyful, child-centered learning. Founded in 1918, the school nurtures Junior Kindergarten through 6th-grade students in a vibrant, multiage learning environment that honors the natural way children learn—through doing—making learning both exciting and meaningful.
At the heart of Hanahau‘oli’s identity is “joyous work”—an approach to education that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, play, and inquiry-based experiences that connect students to their community, culture, and world. The school’s intimate and supportive learning community fosters deep relationships among students, teachers, families, and staff, forming a connected ‘ohana grounded in respect, compassion, and belonging.
Hanahau‘oli also serves the broader educational community through its Professional Development Center (PDC)—an extension of the school’s progressive philosophy that offers educative experiences for educators, scholars, parents, and community members and extends the school’s impact beyond its campus.
About the Position
Hanahau‘oli School seeks a visionary, entrepreneurial leader to serve as Director of Strategy & Operations for its Professional Development Center (PDC). This senior leadership role offers the opportunity to shape and grow a mission-driven center dedicated to advancing progressive education for educators, schools, and communities. Working closely with the Head of School, the PDC Director, and school leadership, the Director of Strategy & Operations will translate bold ideas into sustainable impact—setting strategic priorities, strengthening systems, expanding partnerships, and ensuring the long-term vitality of the PDC. The role balances high-level strategic thinking with hands-on execution across fundraising, finance, operations, and program development.
The ideal candidate brings at least five years of leadership experience—preferably in nonprofit or education settings—and a demonstrated track record in fundraising, grant writing, budget oversight, and building strong external partnerships. A compelling communicator and collaborative relationship-builder, this leader is highly organized, mission-aligned, and energized by growing programs that make a meaningful difference. Integrity, sound judgment, and the ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies are essential, as is a willingness to be an active, engaged member of the Hanahau‘oli school community.