Summary
Description
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
For more than a century, YWCA Oʻahu has been a powerful catalyst for advancing equity, eliminating racism, and empowering women. Since 1900, the organization has championed social justice through advocacy, leadership development, and direct services that strengthen women, families, and communities. Guided by its enduring mission, YWCA Oʻahu creates pathways to economic mobility, stability, and leadership while working to build a more just, inclusive, and equitable future for all.
Today, YWCA Oʻahu is one of Hawaiʻi’s most respected and impactful nonprofit organizations, delivering innovative programs that address the interconnected challenges facing women. Its work spans economic advancement, workforce development, entrepreneurship, advocacy, leadership, and successful community reintegration through programs including Fernhurst transitional housing, wellness and Women’s Business Center at Kokokahi, Dress for Success Honolulu, the Patsy T. Mink Center for Business & Leadership, and Maui Women’s Business Center. YWCA Oʻahu is a recognized advocate for racial justice, women’s economic empowerment, and public policy that expands opportunity and strengthens communities. Supported by an engaged Board of Directors and a committed network of staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners, the organization continues to expand its reach and influence while remaining deeply rooted in the evolving needs of Hawaiʻi. As an independently governed affiliate of YWCA USA, YWCA Oʻahu combines the strength of a nationally recognized movement with the agility to lead meaningful, community-driven change.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
YWCA Oʻahu seeks a visionary, mission-driven Chief Executive Officer to lead one of Hawaiʻi’s most influential nonprofit organizations into its next era of impact. Following the successful 13-year tenure of its last CEO, the organization is exceptionally well positioned, with a strong financial foundation, an engaged Board of Directors, an experienced executive leadership team, and a legacy of trusted community partnership. This is a rare opportunity to build upon more than a century of advocacy and service while shaping the future of an organization committed to advancing equity, opportunity, and systemic change for women.
As Chief Executive Officer, the successful candidate will serve as the strategic leader of the organization, partnering closely with the Board to advance long-term priorities, strengthen organizational sustainability, and amplify community impact. The CEO will steward a diverse portfolio of mission-driven programs, operations, finance, facilities, and talent while fostering a
culture of innovation, accountability, collaboration, and inclusion. With stable financial performance, the organization is well positioned to pursue thoughtful growth, deepen community impact, and seize new opportunities that advance its mission.
The CEO will also serve as YWCA Oʻahu’s primary ambassador and advocate, strengthening relationships with philanthropic partners, government leaders, community organizations, and the private sector to expand the organization’s influence and resources. This leader will champion YWCA Oʻahu’s role as a leading voice for women, cultivate strategic partnerships, navigate an evolving public funding landscape, and diversify revenue to ensure long-term sustainability. The CEO will seek to maximize the strategic value of its facilities and community assets in service to the organizational mission and long-term sustainability. Equally important is the opportunity to elevate the organization’s work and impact, and further connect the growing network of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers engaged through the Patsy T. Mink Center and other leadership initiatives into a unified movement.
The ideal candidate is an accomplished, mission-driven executive who combines strategic vision with strong business acumen, financial discipline, and a passion for advancing equity and opportunity. A collaborative and inspiring leader, the CEO will build trust, foster empowerment, and unite diverse stakeholders around a shared vision while navigating complexity with sound judgment, resilience, and integrity. Equally comfortable in the boardroom, the community, and with donors, policymakers, and partners, the CEO will be a compelling ambassador who elevates YWCA Oʻahu’s visibility, strengthens strategic partnerships, and expands philanthropic investment. The CEO will embrace innovation while serving as a thoughtful steward of the organization’s people, programs, facilities, and financial resources, empowering high-performing teams and positioning YWCA Oʻahu for continued growth and lasting impact. Above all, the next CEO will be an authentic, values-driven leader who inspires confidence, champions advocacy and systems change, and is committed to building on the organization’s 125-year legacy.
Target Annual Salary: $130,000 – $150,000
HOW TO APPLY
Please submit the following, addressed to YWCA O’ahu Search Committee, c/o Inkinen Executive Search, via email to executives@inkinen.com, by September 11, 2026:
- Cover Letter – expressing the reason for your interest in YWCA O’ahu, and how your skills and experience match the CEO role.
- Resume
