Executive Director

Founded in 2006, the Harpswell Foundation (Harpswell) believes that educated women with leadership abilities constitute the most powerful force to bring about social and economic change in Southeast Asia and beyond. The organization was created by Alan Lightman, who, in 2005, purchased the land for and began construction of the first Harpswell Dormitory and Leadership Center for Women in Boeng Trabaek, Phnom Penh. 

Harpswell runs two residential leadership centers for young women in Cambodia while they attend university for four or five years in Phnom Penh. 

Since 2017, Harpswell has also operated an ASEAN Leadership Summit for outstanding early-to-mid-career women drawn from the 10 ASEAN countries plus Nepal. The two-week residential program in Penang, Malaysia, includes a rigorous curriculum in ASEAN political science, leadership, civic engagement, debate, and activities to develop critical thinking and leadership skills. 

Over the last ten years, Harpswell has steadily developed its internal operational capacities, moving programmatic responsibilities from its founder to its professional staff. With an annual budget of approximately $850,000 supported in part by an investment fund, the organization has a strong ambition to grow its leadership programs for greater impact across Southeast Asia. 

Harpswell seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to expand its work advancing young women with high leadership potential in Southeast Asia through education, training, and supportive networks. Harpswell is a US-based nonprofit with programs in Cambodia and Malaysia. Harpswell envisions a new generation of women leaders throughout Southeast Asia who create and inspire positive social change.

For a self-starting leader with the right motivation and executive experience, this is an exceptional opportunity to shape and promote creative extensions from a solid base of accomplishment. The Executive Director, reporting to and working with our Board of Trustees, oversees a current staff of eleven based in Cambodia, Malaysia, and the United States, including an experienced professional Development Director.

The full-time position requires both remote management and substantial travel and can be based either in the U.S. or in the region (including Australia). Considerable practical experience in and cultural familiarity with Southeast Asia is a must, as is the ability to travel to and within the region. 

Review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Nominations, inquiries, and applications, including a resume and letter of interest, should be sent in confidence below.

Sean Farrell is leading this search with Sokeng Cleary. 

Harpswell is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.