President & CEO

Position Summary

The SPEDA President & CEO is a highly visible, hands-on leadership role responsible for advancing the organization's mission, vision, and objectives. This individual must balance strategic thinking with operational management, community engagement, and policy collaboration — serving as both the architect and ambassador of Somerset-Pulaski County’s continued economic success.

This position is demanding, fast-paced, and rewarding — ideal for an energetic, detail-oriented professional who thrives on challenge, creativity, and results. It is an “at-will” position that reports to the SPEDA Board of Directors, comprised of the Mayor of Somerset, the Pulaski County Judge-Executive, and six appointed members.

Essential Responsibilities

• Operate under the direction of the SPEDA Board of Directors to implement strategic goals and initiatives.
• Oversee SPEDA’s operational, financial, and administrative performance, ensuring efficiency and compliance.
• Build and sustain partnerships across the public and private sectors, including local, state, and federal agencies.
• Lead business recruitment, retention, and expansion efforts across key industries such as manufacturing, retail, tourism, and entrepreneurship.
• Represent SPEDA at public meetings, conferences, and events; serve as the organization’s chief spokesperson.
• Cultivate a collaborative, consensus-driven organizational culture that promotes teamwork and transparency.
• Stay abreast of economic development trends and best practices; provide timely recommendations to the Board.
• Regularly attend City Council and Fiscal Court meetings, maintaining strong relationships with elected officials.
• Oversee community projects that enhance quality of life, workforce development, and educational opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, public administration, or related field.
• Proven leadership experience in economic development, business management, or public administration.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects, manage budgets, and deliver measurable results.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in both public and private sectors preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to inspire, influence, and unify diverse stakeholders.
• High integrity, discretion, and commitment to community advancement.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary potential begins at $100,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Simple IRA with SPEDA match.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Paid time off (vacation and sick days).
• Company vehicle provided.
• Supportive, innovative, and mission-driven workplace culture.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter detailing their interest and qualifications;
• A current, detailed résumé;
• All relevant contact information; and
• Three professional references.

Send materials to:

SPEDA

Attn: Chris Girdler, President & CEO

P.O. Box 409, Somerset, KY 42502

Email: chris@speda.org and jessica@speda.org

Deadline & Interview Timeline

• All applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. ET on July 31, 2026.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• All candidate applications will be handled with strict confidentiality.
• The Board of Directors will review all applications and schedule interviews soon after the application deadline.
• A candidate is expected to be selected for the position by Fall 2026.

Equal Opportunity Statement

SPEDA is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by law.