Strategic Partnerships Coordinator

About the role

The Pacific Islands Development Program (PIDP) at the East‑West Center seeks a Strategic Partnerships Coordinator to expand and sustain collaborations with universities, government agencies, NGOs, and Pacific Island stakeholders. The role supports policy dialogue, leadership development, and knowledge exchange across Hawaiʻi and the broader Pacific region.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with the Deputy Director to develop and manage relationships with government bodies, regional organisations, international institutions, diaspora groups, and academic partners.
• Design and deliver leadership programmes, curricula, and training initiatives focused on Pacific governance, diplomacy and emerging policy issues.
• Coordinate PICL meetings, policy discussions and official engagements involving Pacific leaders and senior officials.
• Oversee PIDP alumni, fellows and interns, fostering networking opportunities and contributions to research and publications.
• Support grant development, draft partnership agreements, MOUs and prepare program reports, briefings and evaluation materials.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in international relations, public policy, Pacific studies or a related field and at least five years of experience in leadership development, program management or regional cooperation.
• Proven ability to build and maintain partnerships across government, academic and nonprofit sectors, and to navigate complex political dynamics.
• Strong analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting reports and policy briefs.
• High attention to detail, ability to manage confidential information and work independently in a fast‑paced, non‑routine environment.

Required skills

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Excel
• Adobe Acrobat Pro
• Google Workspace (Google Suite)
• Microsoft 365
• Zoom
• Skype