The Position & Leadership Opportunity: Executive Director 

The Nuiqsut Community Development Foundation (NCDF) seeks an experienced Executive Director to serve as a catalyst for community development in Nuiqsut. The next Executive Director will build NCDF into an organization that empowers the City of Nuiqsut, strengthens partnerships, and serves as an anchor for effective grant management and community growth. 

This is a builder's role in a complex environment. As NCDF's sole employee, the next Executive Director will build out the organization's infrastructure: establishing systems, assisting the City of Nuiqsut in grant development and administration, and strengthening the relationships between NCDF, the City of Nuiqsut, Kuukpik Corporation, ConocoPhillips, and the Native Village of Nuiqsut. Successful leaders in this role can stay focused on NCDF’s mission, maintain clear boundaries with partner entities, and build trust through consistent presence in the community. For a self-directed leader who cares deeply about community development in rural Alaska, this is a rare opportunity to help a community bring its own vision to life. 

The Organization 

The Nuiqsut Community Development Foundation promotes the common good and general welfare of the people and community of Nuiqsut (population approximately 500). NCDF's primary role is to support local entities in building the capacity to access and manage grants that improve the community, primarily through the NPR-A Impact Mitigation Program. The City of Nuiqsut received approximately $4.7 million in NPR-A Impact Mitigation Program funds in FY26. The City is the applicant and the entity legally responsible for NPR-A grants, with NCDF assisting the City in grant development, preparation, and compliance, while ensuring NCDF's role remains advisory and supportive rather than operational. 

Beyond grant support, NCDF has the capacity to serve as a wider community development resource, partnering with local entities to advance the wellbeing of Nuiqsut. The incoming Executive Director will have the opportunity to help define what that wider role looks like. 

NCDF is guided by the Iñupiaq Values adopted at its May 2026 strategic retreat: Resolution of Conflict, Compassion, Cooperation, Family and Kinship, Love and Respect for Elders, Humility, Humor, Hunting Traditions, Knowledge of Language, Respect for Nature, Sharing, and Spirituality. 

The foundation is governed by a board that includes representatives from Kuukpik Corporation (the ANCSA village corporation for Nuiqsut), the City of Nuiqsut, ConocoPhillips, and the Native Village of Nuiqsut (federally recognized tribe). The foundation Executive Director will be based out of Anchorage. The board recently completed a strategic retreat and is ready to partner with the next Executive Director on a detailed strategic plan. 

Compensation and Application Process 

The salary range is $175,000 to $250,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. The position includes a six-month probationary period with performance evaluations at mid-year and year-end. NCDF provides a benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, holidays, and leave, as well as flexibility for travel and work demands. 

The duty station is in Anchorage, with regular travel to Nuiqsut at least one full week per month. Lodging, meals, and transportation are covered for time spent in Nuiqsut. Partial relocation support may be available for in-state candidates and will be discussed at the time of offer.

Please visit https://www.forakergroup.org/site/index.cfm/cboard-view/11552 to see the full job description and application instructions.