Native Health Initiatives Director

The Center for Native American Health (CNAH) at the UNM Health Sciences Center seeks a passionate, collaborative, and mission-driven leader to serve as Native Health Initiatives Director. This is an exceptional opportunity to help advance Native health, strengthen Indigenous health leadership, and support meaningful partnerships with Tribal Nations, Pueblos, and Native communities throughout New Mexico and beyond. Classified by UNM as a Strategic Project Director (A7123), this exempt, Grade 16 position reports directly to the CNAH Executive Director. The Native Health Initiatives Director plays a critical leadership role in shaping and advancing CNAH's community-engaged programs, strategic initiatives, and external partnerships. Working at the intersection of Indigenous public health, workforce development, research, and policy, the Native Health Initiatives Director helps transform shared priorities into lasting impact for Native communities. The Native Health Initiatives Director builds trusted relationships with Tribal leaders, community partners, students, faculty, policymakers, and health professionals while leading initiatives that support Native health and wellness. This position requires a leader who is committed to working respectfully within Tribal protocols, values community-driven solutions, and is dedicated to fostering opportunities that strengthen Native peoples, communities, and future generations of health leaders. As a member of CNAH's leadership team, the Native Health Initiatives Director collaborates closely with the Executive Director, Administrative Operations Director, and Research Core Director to align programs, partnerships, and resources in support of the Center's mission. When delegated by the Executive Director, the Native Health Initiatives Director helps ensure continuity of leadership and stewardship of the Center's strategic priorities. About CNAH The Center for Native American Health (CNAH) at the UNM Health Sciences Center works to advance health and well-being for Native peoples by strengthening the Native health workforce, supporting Indigenous public health and research, informing health policy, and building partnerships grounded in respect, reciprocity, and Tribal sovereignty. CNAH serves as a bridge between Tribal communities, academic institutions, healthcare systems, and policymakers to address health priorities identified by Native communities themselves. Through education, leadership development, research, community engagement, and policy initiatives, the Center is committed to creating opportunities that improve health outcomes and expand pathways for Native students, professionals, and future leaders. At CNAH, we believe meaningful change happens through authentic relationships, shared learning, and a deep commitment to serving Native communities. The Native Health Initiatives Director will play a central role in advancing this vision.