ABOUT THIS ROLE

Associations International (AI) is an association management company based in Lexington, KY, who partners with non-profit trade and career associations. Our job is to help those non-profits meet their mission and grow their membership through the work of our talented, dedicated team.

As Chief Staff Officer (CSO), you will serve our client partner, the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), a leader in the advancement of the dog training profession. The CSO reports to AI’s Chairman of the Board, while partnering with APDT’s Board of Trustees. Working in conjunction with volunteer leadership and AI’s dedicated staff, the CSO is responsible for the overall management and operations of the association. The CSO provides fiscal and personnel management, develops effective relationships with key stakeholders, and positively represents the association.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Management

Manage execution of client programs, services, and events in line with the strategic plan or direction as established by the board
Evaluate programs, services, and events, including annual conferences to determine alignment with ongoing strategic planning initiatives
Responsible for sound fiscal planning and management, including review of the association’s financial statements
Responsible for creation and ongoing maintenance of annual budget
Development of new revenue sources
Oversee administration of association’s programs, awards, and scholarships
Development and administration of publications where relevant
Oversee selection of and negotiate with conference sites

Communication

Partner with the Board of Trustees, create and manage an effective communications plan to keep leadership apprised of activities and key developments
Oversee association marketing plan outlining communications, public relations, social media, and all other forms of connecting to members and outside constituents
Create and manage effective communication with members of the association
Oversee the development of effective association communication vehicles (newsletter, weekly news briefs, reporting, etc.)

Relationships

Communicate with members in a responsive and respectful manner, demonstrating sensitivity to member needs and interests, and exhibiting effective leadership qualities
Work in a positive and productive manner with the Board of Trustees, responsive to board input and direction and offering sound advice and guidance
Serve as the association’s primary representative in the absence of the Chair
Develop a relationship of mutual support with core and shared staff, providing effective leadership and fostering high staff performance and morale
Oversee sponsorship relationships to sustain non-dues revenue. This includes partnerships formed to support annual conferences and events/programs
Establish effective working relationships with other like-minded organizations as determined in partnership with board leadership, which reflect positively on and contribute to the association’s stature in the industry, grows membership and revenue

Leadership

Serve as leader for the Board of Trustees and other volunteer leadership groups, offering recommendations, advice and counsel while consistently recognizing and adhering to the ultimate authority of the Board of Trustees
Collaborate and participate within the AI Leadership Team
Oversee board nominations process adhering to bylaws and leadership succession planning
Provide strategic thinking, creativity, and planning to assist the board with vision and direction
Employ effective leadership skills in the management of staff and contractors
Maintain a positive and influential leadership profile within the industry
Perform other related duties as assigned

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

7+ years of professional business/management, association management and/or nonprofit management experience
Experience working with a volunteer, nonprofit, or not-for-profit Board of Directors
Experience with sponsorship and partner development
Demonstrated leadership ability
Public speaking experience
Ability to travel frequently and work nights and weekends
Bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited college or university
Experience managing 501c6 or 501c3 associations and components/chapters desired
CAE Certification; CFRE Certification desired
Master’s degree in a related field from an accredited college or university desired

WHO IS ASSOCIATIONS INTERNATIONAL?

We hire diverse and talented people who drive the success of our partner associations by bringing their talents, passions, and expertise to the team. We are proud to have been named a Best Places to Work in Kentucky award recipient for eleven years and counting!

Flexibility: hybrid and in office flexibility
Benefits: Full benefit package including medical, company paid dental and vision, disability, life insurance and more
Retirement: 401(k) with company match (because we all want to retire one day)
Time Off: Comprehensive time off to do the things you love including vacation, sick and wellness time, paid holidays, floating holidays, and a paid yearly company shutdown

Associations International is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. AI recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires support in applying, please reach out to our HR team at 859-219-3567.

Associations International

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Chief Staff Officer