Regional Executive Director

Lead, Advocate, and Grow Missouri's Restaurant Industry The Missouri Restaurant Association (MRA) is seeking an energetic, relationship-focused professional to serve as Regional Executive Director for Western Missouri. This leadership role is responsible for advancing the Association's mission through membership growth, advocacy, sponsorship development, workforce initiatives, and chapter leadership. A key responsibility of this position is overseeing the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association (GKCRA), working closely with industry leaders, board members, restaurant operators, sponsors, educators, and elected officials to strengthen and grow the region's restaurant community. Position Summary As the primary representative of the Missouri Restaurant Association in Western Missouri, the Regional Executive Director serves as the strategic leader for regional operations and the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association, Southwest Restaurant Association and the Western division of the MRA. This individual will drive membership recruitment and retention, support industry advocacy efforts, develop sponsorship partnerships, oversee chapter governance, and create meaningful opportunities that benefit restaurant operators and hospitality professionals throughout the region. Key Responsibilities Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association Leadership Provide strategic leadership and oversight for the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association. Support and collaborate with the GKCRA Board of Directors to achieve organizational goals. Lead chapter operations, governance, budgeting, and member engagement initiatives. Serve as the primary liaison between GKCRA, local stakeholders, and the Missouri Restaurant Association. Membership Development & Industry Engagement Grow and retain restaurant and allied memberships throughout Western Missouri. Build strong relationships with restaurant operators, community leaders, and industry partners. Promote MRA programs, services, and member benefits through regular outreach and engagement. Achieve annual membership growth and retention goals. Events, Sponsorships & Workforce Development Develop sponsorship partnerships and fundraising opportunities. Lead educational programs, networking events, golf tournaments, and chapter activities. Promote workforce development initiatives including ServSafe, ServSuccess, Restaurant Ready, and industry training programs. Collaborate with partners to increase participation and engagement across regional programs. Represent the restaurant industry with elected officials and community stakeholders. Support legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts affecting Missouri restaurants. Serve as a visible ambassador for the Missouri Restaurant Association throughout Western Missouri. Qualifications Required Proven success in business development, membership sales, account management, fundraising, or relationship management. Exceptional networking, communication, and relationship-building skills. Strong organizational and project management abilities. Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities. Willingness to travel regularly and attend occasional evening and weekend events. Preferred Experience in hospitality, restaurant operations, association management, or nonprofit leadership. Experience working with volunteer boards and committees. Knowledge of Missouri's restaurant and hospitality industry. Membership sales, sponsorship development, or fundraising experience. Experience with association management software, including NOVI. Salary: $65,000-$75,000 annually, based on experience Benefits Include: Health, dental, and vision insurance Retirement plan with employer contribution Paid vacation and holidays Professional development opportunities #J-18808-Ljbffr