Empowering CIRI Shareholders and Descendants to ascend to the highest levels of the company
“It’s no secret that I’m CIRI’s first non-Native CEO,” Swami shared with the audience gathered at the 2024 CIRI Annual Meeting, held June 1 in Kenai, Alaska. “And although I’m Indian, I’m not the same type,” he joked.
All joking aside, Swami and the CIRI leadership team are serious about developing executive-level skills among CIRI Shareholders and Descendants. “I am committed to ensuring that when I leave here, a Shareholder or Descendant is standing in my place,” Swami continued. “We want to put CIRI on a path of being led by its people.”
Designed to identify potential leaders, encourage creativity and innovation, and empower those looking to play a key role in CIRI’s business operations and future success, the Yah (Dena’ina for “grow”) Program will prepare CIRI Shareholders and confirmed Descendants to lead at the highest levels of the organization.
The successful candidate will become the Yah Executive. In the first year of the program, an individual development plan will be created based on his/her interests and skills. This development plan will help guide the selected candidate through years two through six of the program.
Participants will receive exposure to and learn various executive-level leadership skills and become familiar with CIRI’s business lines, corporate strategy, and ANCSA/mission-critical programs and benefits. They will provide executive-level support to the CIRI leadership team, serve as a liaison between internal/external contacts and CIRI executives, and oversee special projects. Additionally, they will represent CIRI at business and community functions and Shareholder meetings and events.
“The Yah Program is about our future,” Swami emphasized. “Though the goal is to place a CIRI Shareholder or Descendant in my position, we understand not all program participants want to become the CEO. If you meet the eligibility requirements and are passionate about becoming a leader within CIRI, we encourage you to apply. Whatever your interest, this program is designed to teach, support and encourage our successful candidates every step of the way.”
The ideal Yah Program candidate will be mid-career, with some business and on-the-job supervisory experience, and have a demonstrated interest in Alaska Native people and cultures. A bachelor’s degree is required, and a master’s degree is preferred. For more information and to apply, visit the CIRI website.
