CEO / Executive Director

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) / Executive Director

Fort Worth Apartment Association (FWAA) – Fort Worth, TX

The Fort Worth Apartment Association (FWAA), a proud affiliate of the Texas Apartment Association (TAA) and National Apartment Association (NAA), is seeking a dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) / Executive Director to lead our organization.

FWAA is a nonprofit trade association representing the multifamily housing industry across Greater Fort Worth. Our mission is to provide advocacy, education, networking, and resources that deliver the highest value to our members. The CEO serves as the chief staff officer, reporting to the Board of Directors, and is responsible for advancing FWAA’s mission while ensuring strong governance, member service, and organizational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Directors and manage operations in accordance with FWAA bylaws, policy manual, and Robert’s Rules of Order.
• Lead and support FWAA’s advocacy efforts by equipping members, volunteers, and Board leaders to effectively represent the multifamily industry at the local, state, and national levels.
• Serve as a spokesperson for FWAA and represent the organization in partnership with the Texas Apartment Association (TAA), National Apartment Association (NAA), elected officials, and community leaders.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality education, networking, and advocacy programs for members.
• Oversee financial management, budgeting, and reporting to ensure sustainability.
• Lead and mentor FWAA staff, fostering accountability, collaboration, and a positive culture.

Fort Worth Apartment Association provides equal employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Why FWAA?

This is a unique opportunity to lead one of Texas’s most respected local apartment associations, with a strong connection to state and national partners. FWAA offers the chance to shape the future of multifamily housing in Fort Worth while working alongside dedicated members, volunteers, and industry leaders.

Position Overview 

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the chief staff officer of the Fort Worth Apartment Association (FWAA) and is responsible to the Board of Directors for the effective management and leadership of the Association. The CEO oversees daily operations, implements strategic goals, manages staff, directs advocacy and member services, and represents FWAA to internal and external stakeholders. 

Key Responsibilities 

Leadership & Governance 

• Serve as the chief administrative officer, reporting to the Board of Directors. 
• Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Directors and manage operations in accordance with FWAA bylaws, policy manual, and Robert’s Rules of Order. 
• Implement Board policies, strategic initiatives, and annual business plans. 
• Advise and inform the Board on trends, opportunities, and challenges affecting the apartment industry. 

Member Services & Engagement 

• Ensure delivery of valuable programs, education, and networking opportunities to members. 
• Foster strong relationships with member companies, owners, managers, suppliers, and industry partners. 
• Lead initiatives to grow membership and enhance member retention. 
• Maintain a visible, accessible presence with members at events and in the community. 

Advocacy & External Relations 

• Support and equip FWAA members, volunteers, and leadership to effectively represent the multifamily industry in advocacy efforts. 

• Serve as a visible spokesperson for FWAA while ensuring members and Board leaders are prepared and positioned to engage with policymakers. 
• Represent FWAA in collaboration with the Texas Apartment Association (TAA), National Apartment Association (NAA), elected officials, and community leaders. 
• Coordinate with state and national associations to align advocacy and policy efforts. 
• Build and maintain positive relationships with public officials, media, and community partners to advance FWAA’s mission. 

Financial & Operational Management 

• Develop, recommend, and manage the annual budget in alignment with Board-approved priorities. 
• Ensure fiscal responsibility and sound financial management practices. 
• Oversee contracts, dues structures, sponsorships, and revenue programs. 
• Manage facilities, technology, and resources to support efficient operations. 

Staff Leadership 

• Recruit, supervise, and evaluate staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. 
• Establish clear performance goals and professional development opportunities for staff. 
• Ensure compliance with employment laws, policies, and organizational standards. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CAE (Certified Association Executive) designation preferred. 
• Minimum 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience, ideally within a nonprofit trade association or real estate/apartment industry. 
• Proven experience in governance, financial oversight, and staff management. 
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, work with diverse stakeholders, and lead in a dynamic environment. 

Personal Attributes 

• Visionary and strategic thinker. 
• Strong ethical standards and integrity. 
• Collaborative leadership style with ability to influence and inspire. 
• Member-focused, with a service-first mentality. 
• Comfortable engaging with high-level stakeholders, elected officials, and industry leaders. 

Fort Worth Apartment Association provides equal employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. 

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CAE designation preferred.
• 7 years of progressive leadership experience, ideally in a trade association, nonprofit, or real estate/apartment industry role.
• Strong background in staff supervision, governance, and financial management.
• Proven ability to manage multiple stakeholders and advocate effectively.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills.
• Passion for advancing the multifamily housing industry and delivering member-first value.