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.  

A new client partner is seeking a Chief Staff Officer (CSO) to lead their dynamic team. The Chief Staff Officer (CSO) serves as the executive leader of the client partner association. Working in conjunction with volunteer leadership and the professional management staff, the CSO is responsible for the overall management and operations of the association. In this capacity, the CSO provides fiscal management, develops effective relationships with key stakeholders, and positively represents the association to all audiences.

The ideal candidate for this role will possess knowledge and experience in association management, membership organizations, and/or nonprofit organizations. The CSO shall demonstrate entrepreneurial business skills for the growth and development of association. 

The CSO serves at the pleasure of the association’s Board of Directors, in partnership with the Associations International (AI) Chairman of the Board. All functions are carried out within parameters established by association’s bylaws, strategic plan, annual budget, and other policies established by the Board of Directors, and are subject to change or vary based upon the needs of AI and the Board of Directors.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS

1.) Management:

• Responsible for the oversight and effective execution of client programs, services, and events in line with the strategic plan or direction as established by the board
• Responsible for evaluating programs, services, and events, including annual conferences, in partnership with the Board of Directors to determine effectiveness and alignment with ongoing strategic planning initiatives
• Responsible for sound fiscal planning and management in collaboration with the board leadership. This includes, but is not limited to, reviewing of the association’s financial statements monthly and sending to leadership with appropriate explanations on current financial health
• Responsible for creation and ongoing maintenance of annual budget including in partnership with AI finance team and client leadership
• Development of new revenue sources
• Oversee the effective administration and growth of association’s programs administered annually
• Development and administration of publications/newsletters where relevant
• Oversee selection of and negotiate with conference sites in partnership with AI events team and board

2.) Communication:

• In partnership with the Board President, and Board of Directors, create and manage an effective communications plan to keep leadership apprised of activities and key developments within the association
• Oversee creation and management of association marketing plan outlining communications, which could include public relations, social media, and other forms of connecting to members and outside constituents
• As part of the marketing plan, responsible for creating and managing ongoing and effective communication with members of the association
• Provide for the development of effective association communication vehicles (newsletter, weekly news briefs, reporting, etc.)

3.) Relationships:

• Communicate with members in a responsive and respectful manner, demonstrating sensitivity to member needs and interests, and exhibiting effective leadership qualities
• Maintain “partner” relationship with President and Board of Directors
• Maintain effective relationships within AI with Chairman of the Board and Senior Management Team as well as assigned mentor when relevant. The relationships will support understanding of appropriate communications between management company and board leadership on an ongoing basis
• Work in a positive and productive manner with the Board of Directors, responsive to board input and direction and offering sound advice and guidance
• Develop a relationship of mutual support with core and shared staff, providing effective leadership and fostering high staff performance and morale
• Establish and/or maintain sponsorship relationships to sustain non-dues revenue. This includes, but is not limited to, partnerships formed to support annual conferences and events/programs throughout the year
• 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

4.) Representation:

• Serve as the association’s primary representative as necessary

5.) Leadership:

• Serve as a facilitative leader for the Board of Directors and other volunteer leadership groups, offering recommendations, advice and counsel while consistently recognizing and adhering to the ultimate authority of the Board of Directors
• Oversee board nominations process appropriately adhering to bylaws and leadership succession planning
• Support the board with avenues for strategic thinking, creativity, and planning for future organizational 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

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• Minimum of 5-10 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
• Ability to travel 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

WHY JOIN 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 pride ourselves on creating a culture of respect and belonging and are proud to be a Best Places to Work in Kentucky award recipient since 2012!

• Flexibility: In-office and hybrid flexibility
• Competitive Compensation: Based on skills and experience
• Benefits: Full benefit package including medical, and company-paid dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance
• 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 holidays, vacation, sick, and floating holidays
• Culture: Recipient of the Best Places to Work in Kentucky award for 12 years and running

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. 

About Associations International LLC

Associations International is a full-service association management firm providing services and support for international and domestic associations. We focus on the needs of each of our partner associations, helping them build their membership, promote their missions, and support their value. Above all, we nourish their ability to grow. 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 pride ourselves on creating a culture of respect and belonging and are proud to have been named a Best Places to Work in Kentucky award recipient for 12 years and counting!

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