Job Title: Executive Director
Department/Agency: American Samoa Resilience Office (ASRO)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $80,000 p.a..
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
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General Description
The Executive Director of the American Samoa Resilience Office (ASRO) is a senior executive responsible for overseeing and leading the territory’s efforts to enhance resilience against climate change, natural disasters, and environmental challenges. Operating under the Governor’s Office, the Executive Director will develop and implement comprehensive strategies to safeguard the environment, economy, and communities of American Samoa. This role involves managing resilience programs, building partnerships, securing funding, and ensuring that adaptation policies align with federal and regional initiatives. The Executive Director will also serve as the primary liaison between the Governor’s Office, federal agencies, local governments, and international organizations to address the impacts of climate change.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and Strategic Planning:
Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of a comprehensive resilience strategy for American Samoa, ensuring alignment with the Governor’s vision and territorial priorities.
Provide expert guidance and recommendations to the Governor’s Office on climate adaptation, sustainability, and disaster risk reduction.
Oversee the integration of resilience principles into the territory’s long-term development plans, policies, and programs.
Program Oversight and Management:
Direct the design, implementation, and evaluation of resilience programs addressing climate change impacts, natural disasters, and sustainable development practices.
Ensure effective program management, including the allocation of resources, coordination of activities, and tracking of key performance indicators.
Monitor, assess, and report on the progress of resilience initiatives to the Governor’s Office, stakeholders, and funding agencies.
Intergovernmental and External Relations:
Act as the principal liaison between the American Samoa Government, federal agencies (such as FEMA, DHS, and the Department of the Interior), local governments, and international organizations (e.g., SPREP, Pacific Islands Climate Change Cooperative).
Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders to secure resources, technical expertise, and funding for resilience projects.
Promote the territory’s resilience goals in regional and international forums, advocating for collaboration and support.
Policy Development and Advocacy:
Develop and advocate for policies, regulations, and strategies that integrate climate resilience into infrastructure development, land use planning, disaster response, and community safety.
Lead the development of position papers, legislative proposals, and policy frameworks on climate change adaptation, environmental sustainability, and disaster risk management.
Ensure compliance with relevant federal laws, regulations, and best practices for climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and response.
Community Engagement and Education:
Lead public outreach and education campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the impacts of climate change and the importance of resilience.
Engage with local communities, businesses, and vulnerable populations to ensure that resilience strategies reflect local needs and realities.
Facilitate stakeholder engagement sessions, workshops, and forums to gather input, foster collaboration, and build consensus on resilience priorities.
Resource Mobilization and Financial Management:
Identify and pursue funding opportunities through federal grants, private sector partnerships, and international organizations to support resilience projects.
Oversee the fiscal management of the American Samoa Resilience Office’s budget, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to achieve program objectives.
Prepare financial reports, budget proposals, and compliance documentation in line with grant requirements and government regulations.
Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Management:
Work closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and other relevant agencies to ensure that resilience strategies are integrated into disaster preparedness and emergency response plans.
Lead the coordination of risk assessments, disaster simulations, and recovery plans to ensure the territory is well-prepared for natural disasters.
Ensure that disaster resilience is incorporated into public infrastructure and housing, prioritizing vulnerable and at-risk communities.
Research, Data Collection, and Monitoring:
Oversee the collection and analysis of data related to climate change impacts, disaster trends, and resilience metrics.
Ensure the development and use of scientific models, geographic information systems (GIS), and other tools to inform resilience planning and decision-making.
Conduct regular risk assessments to identify emerging threats to the territory’s resilience and make recommendations for mitigation actions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In-depth understanding of climate science, environmental sustainability, disaster management, and resilience strategies.
Familiarity with federal, territorial, and regional regulations, laws, and policies governing climate change, disaster risk management, and environmental protection.
Strong knowledge of the socio-economic and environmental challenges faced by American Samoa, including climate change impacts, resource management, and sustainable development.
Strong leadership, management, and team-building skills, with the ability to guide multi-disciplinary teams and foster a collaborative work environment.
Excellent project management skills, with experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating complex programs.
Advanced communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, scientists, and international partners.
Proficiency in financial management, including budget oversight, grant management, and resource allocation.
Exceptional problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex data, assess risks, and develop innovative solutions.
Capacity to manage multiple priorities and tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster partnerships across diverse sectors and stakeholders.
Cultural competence and the ability to work effectively within the context of Samoan cultural values and practices.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education:
A Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Climate Change, Public Policy, Disaster Management, or a related field is required.
Certification or specialized training in disaster management, climate adaptation, or environmental sustainability is highly desirable.
Experience:
At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in climate change adaptation, environmental management, disaster resilience, or a related field.
A minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role, with experience managing cross-functional teams and large-scale programs.
Demonstrated success in working with government agencies, international organizations, and local governments on resilience and sustainability issues.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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