Director of Lands & Shareholder Relations in Kotzebue, Alaska at Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation, LLC

Position Summary:

The Director of Lands & Shareholder Relations provides executive-level leadership and oversight of KIC's Shareholder Relations programs and land management functions, serving as a key leader of programs that support the long-term well-being, opportunity, and engagement of KIC Shareholders and their descendants. This position is responsible for advancing Shareholder relations strategy, communication, services, and program development while ensuring responsible stewardship, development, and protection of KIC's land assets.

This role leads the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of Shareholder programs, including internships, scholarships, workforce development, communications, and community engagement initiatives. The Director ensures accurate administration of Shareholder records, stock processes, and related services, while strengthening relationships between Shareholders, leadership, and the Corporation through transparent, responsive, and culturally grounded engagement.

Building on KIC's ANCSA land entitlement of over 200,000 acres and continued land acquisitions, the Director leads strategic land initiatives, regulatory compliance, and land use planning in alignment with corporate goals and Shareholder priorities.

This role works closely with the President & CEO, COO, Board of Directors, Policy Committee, Land Committee, and external agencies to guide decision-making, maximize land and program value, and uphold the cultural values of the Iñupiat people.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Shareholder Relations

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of Shareholder Relations programs, aligning initiatives with organizational goals and Board priorities.
• Serve as an advisor to the President & CEO and Board of Directors on Shareholder matters and engagement strategies.
• Oversee programs including internships, scholarships, workforce development, and outreach initiatives.
• Ensure accurate administration of Shareholder records, stock ownership, estate settlements, and related policies.
• Lead Shareholder communications and engagement efforts, including annual meetings, reports, newsletters, and digital platforms.

Lands Management

• Direct the management, stewardship, and development of KIC land assets, including ANCSA and acquired lands.
• Oversee land acquisition, disposition, and agreements, including leases, easements, permits, and material sales, ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies on land title, permitting, and compliance matters.
• Manage field operations and land monitoring activities, including data collection and reporting using GIS/GPS systems.
• Ensure environmental compliance, land protection, and safety standards across all land operations.

Operations & Leadership

• Lead departmental operations, including budgeting, staff supervision, and program oversight.
• Supervise and mentor staff, including Lands Specialist and Board Coordinator / Shareholder Relations Specialist.
• Coordinate with internal departments, contractors, and external partners to support projects and initiatives.
• Represent KIC with Shareholders, agencies, and partners.
• Prepare reports, analysis, and recommendations for executive leadership and the Board.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resources (e.g., wildlife biology, fisheries biology, forestry, or natural resource management), Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in land management, natural resources, Shareholder relations, or related program leadership.
• 3+ years of supervisory or executive-level leadership experience managing teams, budgets, and complex programs.
• Strong knowledge of Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), and related land regulations.
• Experience in land acquisition, leasing, permitting, resource development, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven ability to develop and execute long-range strategic plans and manage multiple large-scale initiatives.
• Experience working with Alaska Native Corporations, tribal organizations, or rural Alaska communities preferred.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and oversight of operational and program funds.
• Familiarity with GIS/GPS systems, land mapping tools, and Microsoft Office Suite (or similar productivity software).
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to work effectively with Boards, agencies, and community partners.
  
  

Working Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This is a fast paced multi-tasking environment requiring regular attendance of a 40 hour work week. Travel may be required. Fieldwork may involve exposure to varying and extreme weather conditions and environments with limited access to communication or support services. The position also involves regular interaction with Shareholders, community members, government agencies, and business partners in both formal and informal settings.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand, walk, and move for extended periods during meetings, site visits, and field inspections.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing administrative, strategic, and computer-based work.
• Ability to travel over uneven, rugged, and undeveloped terrain by foot or by various modes of transportation (e.g., truck, ATV, snowmachine, boat, or small aircraft).
• Occasional bending, reaching, and lifting of materials up to 25-50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including cold, wind, snow, and rain.
• Sufficient vision, hearing, and mobility to safely perform fieldwork and travel.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment and technology.
• Maintain situational awareness and sound judgment in remote environments, including potential wildlife and environmental hazards.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in both office and field settings.
• Ability to effectively communicate in person, by phone, and in group settings, including presentations to Shareholders and/or leadership.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a variety of settings while managing multiple priorities.
  
  

Benefits:

KIC offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible full-time employees including: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance, 401k with Match, Life and ADD Coverage, Short and Long Term Disability, Paid Time Off and Holidays, Education Assistance/Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Discount Program, and more!

Apply online at our website: https://kikiktagruk.applicantpool.com/

Disclaimer:

This is not to be an exclusive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the person in this job. KIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Pursuant to The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act 43 U.S.C. Sec. 1601 et seq., and federal contractual requirements, Kikiktagruk Inupiat Corporation may legally grant certain preference in employment opportunities to KIC Shareholders and their Descendants. Successful candidates must adhere to KIC's Drug and Alcohol policy/testing requirements and may be required to pass a background and/or Motor Vehicle Records check. The salary range for this position is based on several factors, including relevant experience, education, skills, and current market conditions.