The Executive Director will lead the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce in advancing its mission to foster a vibrant and thriving business community. Reporting to the President and the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will be responsible for the overall management of Chamber operations, strategic growth initiatives, and the successful execution of events. This role requires a dynamic leader with a strong focus on driving membership growth, securing sponsorships, and cultivating positive relationships with local government and key stakeholders. The Executive Director will be a Full-time exempt Employee, compensated through a salary + benefits.

Key Objectives:

• Event Management & Profitability: Lead the planning, execution, and profitability of all Chamber events, including our annual signature events. Ensure these events not only engage the business community but also generate significant revenue to support Chamber initiatives.
• Membership Growth: Develop and implement strategies to increase Chamber membership, enhancing the value proposition for current and prospective members.
• Sponsorship Development: Secure and maintain sponsorships for the Chamber and its events, building partnerships that align with the Chamber's mission and benefit both sponsors and the business community.
• Government Relations: Serve as the Chamber’s primary liaison with local government, advocating for policies and initiatives that support business growth and development within Botetourt County. Foster and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with government officials and agencies.
• Community & Economic Development: Promote commerce in Botetourt County by supporting a business-friendly environment that encourages economic growth, while preserving the county’s unique historic and rural character.
• Business Advocacy: Represent the interests of the business community both locally and regionally, advocating on behalf of Chamber members in various forums, including before governing bodies.
• Networking & Education: Provide valuable networking opportunities and educational programs for Chamber members, helping to strengthen and grow existing businesses.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Implement and drive the Chamber’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the goals set by the Board of Directors. Collaborate with the Board to develop and refine the Chamber’s long-term strategic plan.
• Financial Oversight: Prepare and manage the Chamber’s budget, working closely with the Chamber Treasurer to ensure financial stability and growth.
• Oversee the management of chamber staff including hiring, firing, performance reviews, salary and benefits administration, policy and general supervision.
• Event Coordination: Plan, execute, and evaluate Chamber events, working with the Chamber Events and Marketing Coordinator to maximize attendance, sponsorship, and profitability.
• Membership & Sponsorship Growth: Achieve membership retention and growth goals, while also securing sponsorships that enhance Chamber activities and visibility.
• Governance: Maintain Chamber records, act as Secretary at Board and Executive Committee meetings, and ensure compliance with Chamber Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation.
• Community Engagement: Actively engage with Chamber members, local businesses, and community leaders to understand their needs and promote Chamber services.
• Monthly Reports: Prepare and deliver monthly status reports on financials, events, sponsorship, and membership to the Board of Directors.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven experience in event management and revenue generation.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills.
• Effective business and financial management experience.
• Ability to build and maintain partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials and business leaders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with confidence in public speaking.
• Proficiency in office management and accounting software.
• Demonstrated reliability and commitment to follow through.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with non-profits and/or chambers of commerce.
• Prior experience working in the Chamber space.
• College degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Valid driver’s license.

Background Investigation:

An extensive background investigation is conducted on all applicants who proceed, including but not limited to reviews of credit history, criminal background, and civil records.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to searchcommittee@botetourtchamber.com. Please include 'Executive Director Application' in the subject line. Only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.