WHLA Membership Director

The Membership Director plays a strategic leadership role in shaping and driving the association’s membership strategy, ensuring strong growth, exceptional retention, and sustainable revenue generation. As the staff leader of membership initiatives, this position sets vision, develops strategies, and oversees execution to deliver maximum value to members while advancing the association’s mission.

This position is ideal for a results-driven, relationship-focused professional with experience in membership-based organizations who can balance strategic planning with hands-on execution. The Membership Director will collaborate closely with lodging properties, Chambers of Commerce, CVBs, vendor partners, and industry stakeholders to strengthen engagement and grow the association’s influence.

• Develop and lead the association’s membership strategy, including recruitment, engagement, and retention initiatives.
• Establish annual membership goals in collaboration with executive leadership and the board; monitor progress and report regularly on KPIs.
• Identify and cultivate prospective members through targeted outreach, partnerships, and industry networking.
• Analyze non-renewal trends and member feedback to recommend and implement retention strategies.
• Ensure that the membership value proposition remains relevant, clearly communicated, and consistently delivered.

• Promote and sell advertising and marketing opportunities to members, including:
• Lodging Directory ads and co-op ad placements
• Discounted third-party co-op marketing opportunities
• Digital advertising via website, email, and social media
• Collaborate with the Association Coordinator to gather ad materials and ensure timely submission according to program deadlines.
• Develop and propose new revenue-generating programs to grow overall association income, with a focus on creative and impactful marketing opportunities.

• Serve as the staff lead for the Membership Committee and other committees/task forces as assigned.
• Provide direction, resources, and support to volunteer leaders to advance committee objectives.
• Represent the association at industry events, conferences, and partner meetings to build relationships and promote membership.
• Serve as a key advisor to the CEO and board on membership trends, challenges, and opportunities

• Maintain accurate and timely membership and sales records, including tracking of prospects, renewals, and advertising.
• Produce regular reports and presentations for leadership, committees, and the board.
• Collaborate with staff to ensure smooth processes for member onboarding, billing, communications, and customer service.
• Monitor and implement best practices in membership management to continuously improve effectiveness.

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive membership, sales, or business development experience in an association, chamber, or membership-based organization; or 8 years of relevant B2B sales/partnership experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, hospitality, association management, or related field preferred.
• Proven record of setting and achieving membership growth and retention goals.
• Experience with CRM/database systems and membership reporting.
• Strong professional presence with excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic plans, manage budgets, and generate revenue.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.

• Be a strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into measurable outcomes.
• Have exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including presentations and persuasive selling.
• Possess strong negotiation and closing skills with a focus on consultative sales.
• Be highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Be comfortable using CRM, and taking detailed notes of sales outreach and conversations
• Have a collaborative leadership style with the ability to engage staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Have a strong commitment to outstanding customer service and continuous improvement.

Wages & Benefits

• Base of $65,000 - $80,000 depending on experience
• Established bonuses for hitting goals throughout the year
• Uncapped commission potential
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible schedule
• Fun organization committed to our employees and their professional growth

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person