Executive Director

Salary: $175,000.00 - $250,000.00 Annually

Application Deadline: N/A

The National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) is seeking a skilled, strategic, and visionary executive to serve as its next Executive Director. Representing nearly 2,000 professionals in the aerial application industry. NAAA, a 501c6, works with its partner organization, the National Agricultural Aviation Research & Education Foundation (NAAREF), a 501c3, to provide research and educational programs focused on enhancing the efficacy, security and safety of aerial application.

Reporting to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves in a highly visible leadership role overseeing advocacy and government affairs, financial management, membership growth and engagement, communications, education programs, while ensuring the association fulfills its mission and long-term strategic objectives.

The Executive Director serves as the primary spokesperson for the association and works collaboratively with members, industry partners, other associations, elected officials, and regulatory agencies to advance the interests of the aerial application industry.

Key Responsibilities

Member & Industry Engagement

• Serve as the primary ambassador and public-facing representative of the association.
• Maintain regular, meaningful contact with members to understand their priorities, concerns, and needs.
• Build strong relationships with members, prospective members, industry leaders, and key stakeholders.
• Attend member meetings, chapter/affiliate events, industry conferences, and other association functions.
• Communicate regularly with members regarding the association’s priorities, accomplishments, advocacy efforts, and value.
• Assist staff and committees in identifying opportunities to increase member engagement, retention, recruitment, and overall member value.
• Serve as the subject matter expert for the association with hired lobbyist on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies and policymakers.
• Advocate for the association’s legislative and regulatory priorities.
• Work closely with the Director of Policy, Education and Safety and other policy staff to establish and advance the association’s advocacy agenda.
• Represent the association at congressional meetings, coalitions, industry forums, and other policy-related events.
• Oversee the Association’s Political Action Fund, supporting growth through fundraising and membership engagement.
• Meet regularly with corporate funders and prospective partners to communicate the association’s mission, priorities, programs, and opportunities for engagement.
• Cultivate long‑term relationships with major donors, corporate partners, and strategic allies.

Board & Governance

• Keep the Board informed about organizational performance, industry trends, government affairs, financial performance, risks, and strategic opportunities. Presentation at two board meetings and one business meeting per year.
• Along with staff, translate Board direction and strategic priorities into organizational action.
• Support effective governance and ensure the organization operates consistently with its bylaws and strategic plan.

Organizational Leadership

• Provide overall leadership and direction for the association and its staff (6 employees).
• Ensure effective communication and collaboration across departments.
• Make decisions regarding organizational priorities, resources, and operations in partnership with the Board as appropriate.

Strategic Growth & Positioning

• Lead development and implementation of the association’s strategic plan.
• Identify emerging issues, trends, opportunities, and threats affecting the industry and association.
• Position the association as a respected and influential voice within the industry and with policymakers.
• Develop strategic relationships with allied associations, coalitions, government entities, and other organizations.
• Ensure appropriate allocation of resources toward strategic priorities.
• Diversify revenue through membership, sponsorships, education, partnerships, fundraising, and other appropriate sources.

Communications & Public Representation

• Serve as a principal spokesperson for the association.
• Develop relationships with trade, industry, and mainstream media as appropriate.
• Work with Marketing/Communications to ensure consistent messaging about the association’s mission, priorities, accomplishments, and advocacy efforts.
• Communicate the association’s value and impact to members, policymakers, partners, and the broader industry.

Qualifications/Skills

• Background in Agriculture or Agricultural Aviation is required
• Strong written, verbal, technology and communication skills
• Ability to travel nationally with some potential international travel
• Experience working with boards, committees, elected officials, governmental agencies preferred
• A collaborative leadership style characterized by integrity, transparency, professionalism, respect and mentorship.

Location: Remote

Salary Range: $175,000-$250,000

Salary Details: Benefits package available (including Health, Life and 401K)

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