EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR POSITION
The South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce, located in a beautiful lakeshore community, is seeking a qualified professional who has the expertise to plan, organize and direct innovative activities and programs to achieve the goals and objectives of the Chamber; to acutely assess the needs of its members and the community; to build, enhance and maintain membership; to administer financial records; to supervise staff and encourage volunteers; to organize and maintain a highly efficient office; and to promote excellent service, economic development and entrepreneurship. The Executive Director reports to a (nine member) Board of Directors.
Major Responsibilities:
- Build membership through proactive approaches that include member participation, retention and recruitment, and provide consultations to potential new business start-ups.
- Ensure sound fiscal management and integrity through budget development and accurate reporting of funds.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive program of work.
- Manage and maintain an inviting and user-friendly Chamber office.
- Recruit, hire, train and evaluate staff, and guide volunteers.
- Create solid liaisons and build collaboration with local and state organizations, the business community and other Chambers.
- Oversee a sustainable marketing, website and communication plan.
- Work with the Board to set, maintain, and interpret policy, goals, and strategies.
- Develop, plan, and execute local events and festivals including Icebreaker Fest, Blueberry Festival Craft Fair, All Crafts Fair, SUMMIT, Annual Dinner & Business Excellence Awards, and Golf Outing.
- Stay informed of state and federal legislation impacting Chamber businesses and provide adequate information and updates to membership.
The successful candidate should be professional and business oriented; organized, strategic-minded and action oriented; take initiative and follow through; build consensus and collaboration; decisive; problem solver; analyzer; diplomatic; team builder; leader; and motivator.
Required Position Skills and Demonstrated Abilities
- Strategic Plan: The Executive Director will monitor community, business, and economic needs in the South Haven area to develop an effective strategic plan. The strategic plan needs to be monitored on a regular basis and to evaluate and provide recommendations for change as needed to assure progress toward attainment of the most current Chamber initiatives and goals.
- Business and Operational Plans: Through the proper chamber committees and staff, the Executive Director is responsible for the development of business, financial, marketing, and operational plans to achieve the Chamber’s current strategic initiatives.
- Board Relations: The Executive Director is responsible to maintain strong relationships, communicate in a professional manner, and provide leadership necessary to garner the full engagement of the board members.
- Financial Performance: The Executive Director has fiduciary responsibility for the organization and develops the Chamber budget in conjunction with the Treasurer, implementing and managing the budget as approved by the Board of Directors, which includes providing detailed monthly financial statements. The Director must have a foundational knowledge in general bookkeeping principles, budgets, and cost management. An understanding of QuickBooks is a plus.
- Policy: The Executive Director will ensure that adopted Chamber policy is properly recorded in minutes and policy manuals. This includes assisting the Board, committees, members, and staff to follow current Chamber policy as it relates to programs, events, and other activities of the Chamber.
- Membership Relations, Development, & Retention: The Executive Director provides leadership in membership services to ensure there is a compelling value proposition for current and prospective members. This includes reviewing membership needs, conducting member satisfaction surveys, and developing and recommending revisions to increase membership value, engagement, and financial support.
- Programs: The Executive Director is responsible for managing the operations of programs and events conducted by the Chamber and works with staff and other Chamber committees to plan, market, recruit participants, develop content, conduct the events, monitor finances, and evaluate the effectiveness of the programs.
- Advocacy & Public Policy: Collaborate with the board and staff to identify and manage the Chamber’s relationships and advocacy/public policy efforts with local, regional, state, and federal government bodies to achieve desired outcomes.
- Business Community Development: Work with the Board and staff to support the economic development efforts in the South Haven area. This includes researching needs, developing appropriate content, and linking businesses to resources to spur innovation and growth.
- Staff: The Executive Director is responsible for all Human Resource functions including but not limited to the hiring, supervision, evaluation, and termination of all staff.
- Motivation of Volunteers: The Executive Director needs to motivate and encourage volunteers to participate in Chamber activities.
- Liaison with the Community: Develop and maintain contacts and relationships with key community leaders and members; representing South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce in meetings with local, state, and national business organizations. Serves as a community leader, visionary, and alliance builder to ensure a vibrant economic environment. Grow member relationships and engagement and facilitate new member involvement.
- Other: Any other reasonable tasks as deemed necessary by Board of Directors.
Education/Experience Requirements
- College degree in a related field and/or relevant on-the-job experience.
- Management and leadership experience, including supervisory and training skills.
- Proven leader in economic development and community revitalization desirable.
- Effective written, oral, presentation and computer skills a must.
- Strong listening skills and bridge building to serve members with various needs.
- Fundraising and grant writing skills preferred
- Supervisory experience; training skills.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
Work environment is dictated by activities of the Chamber. Extended periods in difficult work environments may occur. The Executive Director shall generally be available during regular operating hours of the Chamber (9:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday), and evenings and weekends as Chamber events and programming require. May require moving equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, sitting, standing, or walking extended periods of time, and operating office equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Salary Range
$50,00 - $65,000 with consideration for experience and relevant skills.
How to Apply
Send resume to laura.underwood@vibracoustic.com
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Email
(269) 637-5171
