THE ORGANIZATION

The National Association of Credit Management (NACM) is the nation’s leading advocate for business credit and financial management professionals. Founded over 125 years ago, NACM represents commercial credit professionals across a wide range of industries and organization sizes. The association and its affiliated organizations offer advocacy, professional certification, cutting-edge education, credit reporting and collection services, publications, and in-person networking events — all with a focus on promoting best practices and innovation in the field of commercial credit.

NACM operates within a federation model, supported by a national office in Columbia, Maryland and a strong network of 13 Affiliated Associations across the United States. It also includes 3 subsidiary entities: the NACM Service Corp, the NACM Realty Corp and the NACM Scholarship Foundation.  There are also two membership associations:  The Finance, Credit and International Business (FCIB) and the Credit & Financial Development Division (CFDD). The association is known for its flagship event, Credit Congress, and for its leadership in certification and education for commercial credit professionals.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of NACM is the senior-most staff leader of the association and is responsible for ensuring that NACM remains a dynamic, member-driven, and forward-looking organization. Reporting directly to the NACM Board of Directors, the President/COO is responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial leadership of the organization.

The President/COO will lead a team of 37 professionals and serve as a bridge between the Board of Directors, Affiliated Associations, members, and external stakeholders. The President/COO will represent NACM as the public face and voice of the organization, build alignment across diverse interests, and promote a culture of innovation and excellence.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategy & Leadership

• Implement NACM’s strategic vision and goals in alignment with its mission.
• Ensure the organization remains the market leader in commercial credit through comprehensive credit information, education, certification, and services.
• Monitor strategic position in the industry and recommend initiatives to strengthen NACM’s impact and visibility.

Governance & Board Relations

• Serve as the primary liaison to the NACM Board of Directors.
• Provide accurate, timely, and relevant information to support effective governance.
• Assist in preparing Board agendas, reports, and policy recommendations.
• Serve as ex-officio member of all committees.

Operations & Staff Management

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the national office and affiliated entities including FCIB, CFDD, the NACM Service Corp., and the Realty Corp.
• Build and maintain a collaborative and results-oriented internal culture.
• Oversee staffing, hiring, coaching, and performance evaluations.
• Champion cross-training and operational integration across departments.

Financial Oversight & Risk Management

• Develop and manage the annual budget in coordination with the Board.
• Monitor financial performance and ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Oversee management of NACM’s physical headquarters; ensure upkeep and timely maintenance.

Affiliate & Member Engagement

• Foster strong relationships with NACM Affiliates and their leadership.
• Collaborate with Affiliates to grow membership and enhance value to members.
• Promote shared services, consistency, and best practices across the federation.

Marketing, Communications, & Public Representation

• Serve as NACM’s public spokesperson and advocate at the national level.
• Oversee communication strategies including newsletters, reports, and public statements.
• Promote NACM and its business units to external audiences, including policymakers and the media.

Program Development & Oversight

• Support and enhance NACM’s educational products, certifications, and publications.
• Lead innovation in digital delivery and new product development.
• Guide marketing and sales strategies for products and events.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with governance policies, bylaws, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage contracts, vendor agreements, and legal matters in coordination with legal counsel.
• Liaise with NACM’s external contractors such as lobbyists and economists.

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS

• Executive-level experience (minimum 5–7 years) in a nonprofit, trade association, or professional society, preferably with a federation model.
• Proven track record of success in strategic planning, operational execution, and organizational growth.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or CAE designation preferred.
• Strong business and financial acumen, including experience with budgeting, financial oversight, and vendor management. Demonstrated ability to generate new revenue streams, lead fundraising initiatives, and drive sustainable organizational growth.
• Deep understanding of governance, board dynamics, and policy development.
• Demonstrated success leading volunteer-driven organizations and building consensus across stakeholder groups.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with comfort in public speaking and advocacy.
• Proficiency with digital communication, including social media and modern association technologies.
• Familiarity with certification program development, continuing education, or professional standards is strongly desirable.
• Experience managing a virtual or hybrid office environment is a plus.

ATTRIBUTES & PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Transparent and inclusive leadership style; able to build trust and empower staff and volunteers.
• Charismatic spokesperson who can represent NACM externally with confidence and professionalism.
• High energy and proactive, with a sense of urgency and ownership.
• A strong ethical compass and a commitment to acting with integrity.
• Emotionally intelligent; excellent listening and interpersonal skills.
• A creative problem-solver with strategic vision and operational discipline.
• Ability to thrive in a complex and dynamic environment with multiple stakeholders.

KEY DELIVERABLES (EXAMPLES OF ONGOING TASKS)

• Prepare and present monthly and annual operations reports to the NACM Board and Affiliates.
• Oversee editorial and marketing content including Credit Essentials and eNews.
• Lead planning and execution of NACM Board meetings and Credit Congress.
• Direct the activities to strengthen FCIB, CFDD, and other business units. 
• Develop new educational products, update existing certifications, and oversee national textbook rewrites.
• Manage vendor relations, contract negotiations, building services, and audits.
• Track and respond to relevant federal legislation that impacts members.
• Serve as NACM’s liaison to external consultants, contractors, and industry partners.

COMPENSATION & LOCATION

The expected salary range for this position is $180,000 to $210,000, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and demonstrated leadership capabilities. This role also includes performance-based bonus potential. NACM offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical and dental insurance, group life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, a 401(k) plan, and paid time off (PTO).

This is a hybrid role that requires regular in-person presence at the Columbia, Maryland headquarters. National travel is also required, including attendance at Affiliate Annual Meetings and Fall Conferences.

SEARCH PROCESS

The search for NACM’s next President and Chief Operating Officer is being conducted by Tuft & Associates. 

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume by November 14 to:

Catherine Babjak, MNM, cbabjak@tuftassoc.com

For confidential inquiries, nominations, or referrals, please contact:
Dan Borschke, MA, FASAE, CAE, dborschke@tuftassoc.com

Anticipated Timeline

• Early December 2025– Search Committee conducts initial Zoom interviews with selected candidates
• Mid-January 2026– Search Committee and Board of Directors conduct in-person interviews with finalists
• Spring 2026– New President & COO assumes role