Program Manager, Honolulu Defense Forum

Program Manager, Honolulu Defense Forum

📍 Honolulu, HI (in-office)

🏢 Pacific Forum International (PFI)

💼 Full-Time

💰 $60,000–$70,000 (depending on experience)

Pacific Forum International (PFI), a 501(c)(3) non-profit policy research institute based in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, is recruiting a Program Manager whose primary responsibility will be the planning, coordination, and execution of the Honolulu Defense Forum (HDF), an annual premier international defense conference. HDF brings together elements of the U.S. Government, defense and technology industry leaders, and allies and partners to connect urgent military readiness needs with concrete capabilities, delivering specific recommendations to close critical Indo-Pacific defense and security gaps. The position will also require support to Pacific Forum’s events and local initiatives that advance dialogue on Indo-Pacific security and foreign policy issues.

This in-office position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex logistics and senior level communications. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented self-starter who can manage multiple programming timelines, communicate professionally with stakeholders, and execute programs to a high standard. The program manager would work in conjunction with Pacific Forum leadership.

Job Description:

The Program Manager will manage the logistical and administrative aspects of Pacific Forum’s Honolulu Defense Forum conference. 

• Plan and implement the full cycle of programming for the Honolulu Defense Forum, including securing facilities, scheduling engagements and arranging logistics (flights, accommodations, and ground transportation), reaching out to speakers and coordinating the agenda and program with stakeholders, and liaising with project funders on contracting, funds, and other logistics
• Serve as the primary point of contact for planning logistics and programming in conjunction with Pacific Forum leadership
• Liaise with U.S. and foreign government offices, military commands, embassies, and senior officials, ensuring professional protocol and adherence to institutional requirements
• Manage and optimize event systems and tools, including registration platforms, participant databases, and internal tracking and reporting documents; demonstrated ability to quickly learn and adapt to new systems
• Coordinate closely with stakeholders to ensure programs meet project objectives and timelines.
• Prepare and compile agendas, conference prep materials (including pre-conference materials/slides and follow-on reports), participant packets, and other program documentation
• Track program budgets, process payments and reimbursements, and ensure compliance with funding and reporting requirements

In support of Pacific Forum’s broader mission, the Program Manager may also assist with events and local initiatives.

• Support planning and execution of conferences, roundtables, and workshops (in-person and virtual)
• Manage event invitation lists and liaise professionally with speakers and participants
• Manage relationships with third-party vendors such as hotels, transportation providers, and event venues
• Assist with on-site event logistics and materials preparation (travel may be required)
• Support locally-based programming and institutional initiatives as needed

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Experience with program and event management
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe applications
• Ability to manage complex program budgets, reconcile expenses, and assist in processing payments/reimbursements
• Strong communication skills including speaking, writing, and editing
• Demonstrated ability to manage numerous projects concurrently, produce results under deadline, adapt to changing requirements, and work as part of a team
• Punctuality, professionalism, and a positive attitude
• Valid passport and willingness to travel 
• Authorization to work in the United States

Preferred qualifications:

• Familiarity with website management platforms (WordPress)
• Familiarity with email distribution platforms (Mailchimp)
• Familiarity with event management platforms (Swoogo)
• Familiarity with database software (Salesforce)
• Background or interest in the Indo-Pacific, defense and security policy, political science, international relations, regional studies, economics, business, or a related field

Work Schedule

• Full-time, in-person role
• Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
• Occasional evenings or weekends as required

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $60,000–$70,000, depending on experience
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Parking provided

Please submit your application to the Honolulu Defense Forum team at hdf@pacforum.org.

Applications should include:

• Cover letter explaining your interest and how the role aligns with your professional goals
• Resume
• Two professional references with contact information

The Pacific Forum is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.

Please apply by February 12, 2026.