A search has begun to hire a replacement for Henderson Chamber of Commerce President Ellen Redding as she retires at the end of 2021. Learn more about the position below.
TITLE: President
REPORTS TO: Board of Directors
POSITION SUMMARY
The Chamber President directs activities of the Henderson County Chamber of Commerce to promote community awareness of business. The Chamber President is responsible for the oversight and management of all aspects of Chamber business and activities in a manner that is consistent with the Chamber’s Mission Statement. The President serves as the visible leader of the Chamber, as communicator, facilitator and interactive community planner, developing, implementing and assessing Chamber programs, projects and events.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION
Board Relations
- Provides visionary role in strategic planning by participating proactively with the Board and making recommendations including insight, goals, and projections;
- Provides periodic operational and strategic information to the Board, as well as analysis of projected impact of such information if implemented or acted upon;
- Develops and communicates recommendations for continuous improvement;
- Works with committee chairs and other volunteers in the planning and execution of all committee activities;
- Prepares material for monthly board and serves as an advisor to the executive committee.
Membership, Recruitment and Retention
- Exhibits a strong customer service focus to ensure membership retention, growth and development;
- Regularly assesses the needs and interests of the membership and develops/delivers services according to those needs and interests;
- Maintains positive relationships through various means of advocacy, collaboration and communication with the membership and actively promotes Chamber services and programs;
- Assures a system for the measurement, monitoring and continuous improvement of quality of services and operations.
Financial Management
- Creates and presents to the Board annual operating and capital budgets that reflect the programs and goals of the organization;
- Assures proper administration of the Chamber financial activities; maintains appropriate data, records and financial controls; communicates and coordinates, as appropriate, with the Board regarding financial matters;
- Provides regular analysis of financial trends and projections to the Board; recommends sound responses and strategies;
- Assures financial strength of the Chamber.
General Operations
- Presents the Board an annual operating plan including proposed goals, targets and strategies; identifies tactics and initiatives to carry out the plan; monitors the plan and makes amendments as necessary; provides leadership and direction to the Board to complete an annual evaluation process of the organization’s achievements;
- Develops and oversees an effective marketing/public relations program;
- Actively networks and collaborates with public officials, business leaders and media to create and strengthen strategic alliances and partnerships with the Chamber;
- Both regionally and at the state level, participates in professional meetings and educational conferences to maintain and enhance professional competence; incorporates new knowledge and fresh insight into plans and operations of the Chamber;
- Develops and maintains programs for effective recruitment and retention;
- Creates and oversees, in collaboration with the Board, a comprehensive and competitive salary/benefit program for staff members;
- Fosters a positive work environment/culture to develop and sustain a competent and energized team;
- Manages and directs the work of Chamber employees; makes employment decisions and evaluates the work of Chamber employees.
- Perform all other assigned duties as appropriate.
Minimum Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Communications, Public Relations or related field is preferred AND at least three (3) years of upper level management in personnel, community relations, sales, marketing, or related fields.
- Chamber of Commerce certifications through the US Chamber of Commerce or American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) preferred but not required.
Skills & Abilities
- General knowledge of business practices including ability to forecast/develop a yearly budget, ensure timely delivery of monthly financial reports to the Board and maintain general control of expenditures;
- Working knowledge of local government laws, ordinances, zoning requirements;
- Working knowledge of state and local legislative political processes and environments;
- Working knowledge of Chamber Master Management Software helpful;
- A working understanding of social media and the role it will play in the Chamber’s forward strategy;
- Ability to analyze, understand, and act upon complex legislation;
- Ability to identify, lobby for, and secure sources of federal, state, and local government funding to encourage business growth in the County;
- Exceptional strategic thinking and problem solving skills, including demonstrated ability to anticipate and plan for the future and realign priorities quickly when dealing with unanticipated events;
- Proven ability to implement strategic plans and forecasts to identify and achieve business development objectives;
- Ability to effectively lead/manage people;
- Ability to provide effective oversight of operations and administration;
- Demonstrated fundraising experience with events, campaigns and grant writing;
- Strong English language aptitude, including the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing (including the use of texting and email);
- Polished presenter, comfortable presenting and using technology in front of large audiences;
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills; including ability to maintain effective relationships with the Board of Directors, chamber members and staff; effectively collaborate with business leaders of the community, as well as with government representatives, civic leaders and members of the public;
- Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office products;
- Firm commitment to the mission and core values of the Chamber;
- Strong ethical responsibility to coworkers, officials, affiliations, associations, and community;
- Must be flexible and able to work evenings and weekends as needed;
- Relentless positive energy and professionalism;
- Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the economic and cultural environment in Henderson, Kentucky region;
- Must reside in or be willing to relocate to Henderson, Kentucky.
Salary range: $50K – $75K, commensurate with experience and training. In addition to base salary, benefits include retirement, health, and cell phone allowance.
Questions? Please contact Ellen Redding, Chamber President at 270-826-7505 or ellen @hendersonkychamber.com or Chamber Board Chair Jennifer Keach, Big Rivers Electric Corporation, 270-844-6153 or Jennifer.keach@bigrivers.com.
Resumes should be submitted via email by close of business on Wednesday, September 15, 2021, to hendersonchamberpresident@gmail.com.
