Location: Kaua'i, Hawaiʻi (office in Anahola)
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports to: Executive Director
Closing Date: August 1, 2025
Work Location: In-person (not a remote position)
Lead with Purpose. Drive Impact. Shape the Future of Affordable Housing in Hawaiʻi.
PAL Hawaii Org (PAL) is seeking a visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to serve as a strategic partner to the Executive Director and a key leader in advancing our mission. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced executive to drive operational excellence while directly supporting the development of housing solutions for Hawaiʻi’s most vulnerable communities.
The COO will oversee internal operations, guide housing development projects, and lead cross-functional teams to ensure alignment, efficiency, and growth. As second-in-command, you will help shape and execute PAL’s strategic goals while fostering a high-performing, mission-driven culture grounded in equity and local values.
Key Responsibilities
Direct and optimize day-to-day operations across departments, ensuring organizational efficiency.
Oversee the planning, financing, and execution of affordable housing projects in collaboration with the Executive Director.
Lead strategic planning and organizational development initiatives to support long-term growth.
Ensure regulatory compliance, manage risk, and implement systems to support operational efficiency.
Supervise HR processes, staff development, and performance management practices.
Maintain strong fiscal oversight, including budgeting, grants, cost tracking, and audit readiness.
Cultivate internal collaboration, external partnerships, and represent PAL with stakeholders.
Serve as the Acting Executive Director in their absence.
Ideal Candidate Profile
You are a purpose-driven executive with a proven ability to manage complexity, lead teams through change, and scale operational systems that support mission-based work. You bring strategic insight, financial acumen, and a deep understanding of affordable housing development. Your leadership style is inclusive, collaborative, and results-oriented.
Qualifications
Education & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
A minimum of 5 years in executive or senior leadership roles
Demonstrated success in project management, organizational development, and team leadership.
Skills & Knowledge:
Strategic planning, systems thinking, and performance management.
Deep understanding of affordable housing development and financing models.
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Experience working with Native Hawaiian communities or culturally grounded programs is a plus.
For a comprehensive overview of the full range of responsibilities and expectations for this role, please view the detailed list of duties [here].
About PAL
PAL Hawaii Org is a Hawaiʻi-based nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable homes and services to those most in need. Through housing development, property management, and strategic partnerships, we serve houseless individuals and low- to moderate-income families. By placing homes in a community land trust, we preserve affordability for generations and maximize donor impact.
Our work is grounded in equity, respect for culture, and the belief that everyone deserves a safe, stable place to call home.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $85,000 – $92,000 annually, depending on qualifications (DOQ)
Benefits include:
401(k) retirement plan
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
160 hours of flexible paid time off
How to Apply
To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to: Larry@pal-hawaii.org
Equal Opportunity Hiring
PAL is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, supported, and empowered. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.