Washington County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

Executive Director Job Description:

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce is seeking to hire a full time Executive Director. The Chamber unites the business interests of the area into a comprehensive working nonprofit organization that advocates for small business, a strong, diverse economy, and a vibrant community in which to live and work. This is a full-time salaried position.

The Executive Director is the face of the Chamber and is responsible for coordinating all aspects of Chamber activities. The director must fully understand issues confronting small business and property owners, public agencies, and community organizations, and be entrepreneurial, enthusiastic, creative, well organized, and capable of functioning effectively in an independent environment. The Executive Director must Believe in the Future of Washington County and enhance the business climate to make it attractive to both existing businesses and those that may come. The position is not the primary business recruiter for the county but shall promote a positive business environment that makes the county attractive to those businesses located within the county as well as those being recruited by the Economic Development Authority (EDA). The priority role of the position is to ensure the effective operation of the Chamber while coordinating all organizational activities including: Membership recruitment and management, website management, production of events and publications, fundraising, working with the board of directors, supervision of staff, volunteers, and fiscal responsibilities.

Duties

Membership - Responsible for recruitment of new members and retention of Chamber members and developing new programs that give value to chamber members.

Chamber Meetings - Arrange for all meetings and events for the Chamber including the Monthly Membership meetings, workshops, and community meetings. Responsible for providing informational and educational content to the membership.

Communications - Produce all member communications including monthly e-newsletter, promotional pieces, brochures, and social media content.

Chamber Office - Operate & maintain the Chamber office; information and brochures on businesses, respond to visitor inquiries in person or via the phone and email.

Fundraising - Produce events to raise funds for Chamber programs.

Special events - Produce special events that help local businesses and build community support. Currently includes: Annual Chamber Banquet, Third Thursday Chamber Luncheons, Quarterly Chamber Business After-Hour Networking and Fundraisers.

Press - Answer incoming press inquiries and generate engaging story leads for national, regional and area online and print media.

Business recruitment – Work to develop a positive business climate in the county that is valuable to industry sectors targeted by the EDA. Involved in direct industry recruitment only at the request of the EDA

Board duties - Arrange for meetings, agendas, and minutes in conjunction with the board chair and the board.

Administration - Maintain accurate records for the organization including membership data, tax records, financial information, accounts payable and accounts receivable.

Chipley Redevelopment Agency – Serves as the administrator for a five-to-seven-member policy board which oversees the renewal and redevelopment of the CRA district. Supervises the day-to-day agency activities, prepare and submit reports pertaining to CRA projects, provide administrative support and acts as a public spokesperson for the CRA. Reports monthly to the City of Chipley Council. Possess a working knowledge of Community Redevelopment Agencies and how they function.

Training - Arrange lectures, workshops and training seminars on different issues and opportunities for small business owners.

Community - Represents the Chamber at appropriate meetings, serving as close liaison with all groups, being a spokesperson on pertinent issues. Utilizes effective communication skills to counsel and advise on development of programs and activities affecting the business community. Work with local government, business, and other organizations to encourage diverse economic growth. Participate in the quality of life issues. Create materials and events to heighten tourism, revitalization efforts, retention and expansion programs, and infrastructure development.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Characteristics

• Requires excellent verbal and written communications skills. This position requires communication with area businesses, citizens, government leaders, and the media.

• Requires job enthusiasm and the ability to work on some evenings and weekends. Must Believe in Washington County and help others to believe as well.

• Strong computer skills are essential. Ability to work with Microsoft Office Suite software including MS Word, Outlook, Excel. Experience using various social marketing.

• Strong organizational leadership skills are essential.

• Requires public speaking at various meetings and events. May make a public address or secure others to speak concerning community and chamber activities.

• Excellent people and interpersonal skills and the ability to be diplomatic and tactful with members, citizens of the community and community leaders.

• Marketing and event planning are a plus.

• Must understand financial processes used in non-profit organizations.

Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.

- Salary range $46,500- $54,500 depending on experience plus supplemental benefits

available.

- Position open until filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $46,500.00 - $54,500.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $46,500 - $54,500