Description

Organization Overview

The Liljestrand Foundation was established by the Liljestrand family in 2007 to preserve and share Liljestrand House — a defining work of Hawai‘i architect Vladimir Ossipoff — and to foster dialogue on imaginative design. The Foundation’s vision is a world where timeless design is the foundation for every endeavor.

Listed on the Hawaii and National Registers of Historic Places, Liljestrand House is recognized as an outstanding example of Ossipoff’s work and mid-twentieth century modern architecture.

Now at a defining moment in its evolution, the Foundation has completed a strategic planning process and is entering an exciting phase of implementation focused on sustainable growth, increased impact, and deeper community engagement. This is a unique opportunity to join a small but visionary team as it reimagines how a historic site can serve as a vibrant platform for design, dialogue, and cultural leadership in the 21st century.

Position Summary

The Director of Programs & Partnerships is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the Foundation’s strategic vision through innovative programming and strategic alliances. This position leads the development, curation, and promotion of high-impact public programs, donor events, and institutional partnerships that advance the Foundation’s mission and increase its relevance and reach.

This role requires a forward-thinking leader with strong strategic acumen, curatorial sensibility, and a proven track record in relationship-building, fundraising, and program innovation. The Director will work closely with the Executive Director and the Board’s Program Committee to define and deliver a bold, mission-aligned public engagement strategy that strengthens the Foundation’s visibility, sustainability, and cultural leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a long-term program and partnership strategy aligned with the Foundation’s mission, vision, and funding priorities.
• Serve as a thought partner to the Executive Director on institutional growth, program direction, and community impact.
• Provide strategic input and leadership across cross-functional initiatives including interpretation, community engagement, and donor relations.

Program & Curatorial Oversight

• Lead content development and curatorial vision for public programs, lectures, exhibitions, and special events.
• Ensure all programming aligns with the mission and vision of the Liljestrand Foundation.
• Collaborate with cultural partners, curators, and thought leaders to develop meaningful and engaging offerings.

Partnerships & Development

• Develop and implement strategies for securing programmatic funding, sponsorships, and in-kind support.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward partnerships with academic institutions, arts and design organizations, community groups, and corporate sponsors.
• Lead negotiations for partnership agreements, setting clear objectives, deliverables, and metrics for success.

Organizational Leadership

• Provide monthly strategic updates to the Executive Director and Program Committee on program performance, partnership status, and funding progress.
• Represent the Foundation publicly as a key spokesperson at events, panels, and strategic meetings.
• Collaborate with internal staff and volunteers to ensure seamless execution of all programs and events.

Communications & Marketing

• Oversee strategic marketing and communications for programs and partnerships across digital and traditional platforms.
• Ensure consistent messaging and branding that amplifies the Foundation’s mission and public profile.

Risk, Budget & Operations

• Develop and manage program budgets in coordination with the Executive Director.
• Identify potential risks or challenges related to program execution or partnerships and propose timely solutions
• Step in as needed to support other aspects of Foundation operations, including tours and facilities.

Compensation and Benefits

 This is a salaried position. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision) paid time off and paid holidays in accordance with the Foundation’s schedule. Access to a retirement savings plan (401k) is also offered. Hours each week will vary according to the calendar of events and other Foundation priorities and includes evenings and weekends. 

How to apply

Please send a resume, LinkedIn profile and a cover letter detailing your interest in the position and how your background aligns with the Foundation’s mission

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in a leadership capacity in program management, curatorial leadership, or strategic partnerships within a cultural, design, or nonprofit setting.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing multi-year strategic initiatives.
• Proven ability to secure funding and build high-value partnerships.
• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Experience managing budgets and leading cross-functional teams.
• Strong knowledge of and passion for architecture, design, and the arts.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle (Liljestrand House is not accessible via public transportation).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with donor engagement or development strategy.
• Familiarity with curatorial practices and interpretive planning.
• Knowledge of marketing, communications, and branding best practices in a cultural institution.