Executive Director

Job Description

Job Description

The Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic, relationship-focused Executive Director to serve as the organization's chief executive officer and public face. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides strategic leadership, oversees daily operations and financial performance, strengthens membership, develops community partnerships, and advocates for a thriving local business community.

 

The ideal candidate demonstrates integrity, business acumen, financial stewardship, collaboration, innovation, sound judgment, and a strong commitment to member service and results in positioning the Chamber for continued growth and long-term sustainability.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and implement the Chamber's strategic priorities in partnership with the Board of Directors.
• Develop strategies to recruit, retain, and engage members while ensuring members recognize the value of Chamber participation.
• Manage the Chamber's budget, financial performance, resources, and revenue-generating activities, including sponsorships, grants, fundraising, and partnerships.
• Serve as a visible community leader and Chamber spokesperson, building relationships with businesses, elected officials, government agencies, community organizations, and regional partners.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory issues and support advocacy efforts that promote business growth and economic vitality.
• Oversee Chamber communications, marketing, social media, public relations, and brand visibility.
• Provide leadership and oversight for networking events, educational programs, ribbon cuttings, awards, legislative forums, and community events.
• Serve as the principal advisor to the Board of Directors and support effective governance, committees, and volunteer leadership.
• Direct day-to-day operations and recruit, supervise, coach, and develop staff and volunteers.
• Build strategic partnerships and identify new opportunities that strengthen Chamber programs, services, revenue, and community impact.

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Communications, Marketing, Nonprofit Management, Economic Development, or a related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible leadership experience.
• Experience with nonprofit organizations, chambers of commerce, business associations, economic development, or similar organizations preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with boards of directors, budgeting, financial management, staff supervision, and organizational leadership.
• Experience in membership development, fundraising, sponsorship development, business development, or sales preferred.
• Strong public speaking, networking, written communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work effectively with business leaders, elected officials, community partners, members, staff, and volunteers.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, CRM systems, social media, and digital communication platforms.

 

Schedule & Community Engagement: This position requires flexibility to attend community meetings, networking activities, and Chamber events, including occasional early mornings, evenings, and weekends. Travel required throughout Caroline County along with occasional regional travel.