Executive Director

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Berea Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, member-driven organization in central Kentucky dedicated to fostering local economic growth and supporting businesses in Berea and Madison County. Founded in 1950, the Chamber serves as a network for professionals by providing resources, advocacy, and events that promote a thriving, collaborative business environment. The Chamber serves as the voice of the local business community, with an emphasis on business-to-business collaboration and networking opportunities, including seminars and community events.

This position supports the Berea Chamber Mission. With integrity, the Berea Chamber of Commerce promotes prosperity and enhances the quality of life in Berea, Kentucky by:

· Supporting the success and growth of existing businesses

· Encouraging and pursuing new business development

· Enhancing communication and collaboration

· Promoting Berea as a place to live, work, and explore

This position is full-time in-person based in Berea, KY and requires regular in-person engagement with members and community partners; occasional evening and weekend work is expected to support Chamber events and community meetings; and some local and regional travel may be required.

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

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;
• 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. the Chamber will consider a combination of education, training, and relevant professional or lived experience in personnel, community relations, sales, marketing, or related fields.

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;
• A working understanding of social media and the role it will play in the Chamber’s forward strategy;
• 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 with common workplace technology (email, Microsoft Office/Google Workspace, basic website/CMS tools, and social media platforms) or the ability to learn quickly;
• 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 Berea, Kentucky region.

Pay: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person

Salary : $45,000 - $55,000