The Executive Vice President (EVP) is the chief staff executive responsible for the successful leadership and management of the organization according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors. Directs all administrative and operational activities and programs in support of the mission of NCNLA to assure that the association’s objectives are achieved, and member needs are met. Oversees staff, including hiring, training, supervising, and determining compensation packages.

The EVP reports to the NCNLA Board of Directors.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Leadership

• Participates with the Board of Directors in developing a vision and strategic plan to guide the organization;
• Identifies, assesses, and informs the Board of Directors of internal and external issues that affect the organization;
• Acts as a professional advisor to the Board of Directors on all aspects of the organization's activities;
• In addition to the President (volunteer), acts as a spokesperson for the organization;
• Conducts official correspondence on behalf of the Board as appropriate and jointly with the Board when appropriate; and
• Represents the organization at industry events to enhance the organization's profile.

Operational Planning and Management

• Develops an operational plan which incorporates goals and objectives that work towards the strategic direction of the organization;
• Ensures that the operation of the organization meets the expectations of its members and Board;
• Oversees the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of the organization;
• Provides support to committees and making certain that committee decisions and recommendations are submitted to the Board for action; and
• Provides support to the Board by preparing meeting agenda and supporting materials.

Program Planning and Management

• Oversees the planning, implementation and evaluation of the organization's programs and services;
• Ensures that the programs and services offered by the organization contribute to the organization’s mission and reflect the priorities of the Board;
• Provides overall management of the organization’s events and coordinates staff responsibilities in planning, conducting, and evaluating the events; and
• Monitors the day-to-day delivery of the programs and services of the organization to maintain or improve quality.

Advocacy

• Establishes good working relationships and collaborative arrangements with other green industry groups, academic institutions, governmental agencies, politicians, and other organizations to help achieve the goals of the organization;
• Communicates with NCNLA members to enlist their support and involvement with issues that impact the industry.

Member Relations

• Attends member events to keep members informed of the work of the organization and identify the needs of members; and
• Promotes NCNLA programs and services and encourages membership when attending non-member events.

Human Resources Planning and Management

• Determines staffing requirements for organizational management and program delivery;
• Oversees implementation of the human resources policies, procedures and practices including the development of job description for all staff;
• Establishes a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all appropriate legislation and regulations;
• Recruits, interviews and selects staff that have the right technical and personal abilities to help further the organization's mission;
• Establishes compensation packages based on experience, responsibilities, and funds available in the approved annual budget;
• Ensures that staff receives an orientation to the organization and appropriate training;
• Implements a review process that includes on-going monitoring of staff;
• Coaches and mentors staff as appropriate to improve performance; and
• Disciplines staff when necessary; releases staff when necessary, using appropriate and legally defensible procedures.

Financial Planning and Management

• Works with staff and the Board Finance Committee to prepare a comprehensive budget;
• Works with the Board to secure adequate funding for the operation of the organization through membership dues, trade show and other event registration fees, advertisement sales, and sponsorships;
• Generates and develops new opportunities for non-dues revenue for NCNLA, within established Board policy;
• Ensures that sound bookkeeping and accounting procedures are followed;
• Administers the funds of the organization according to the approved budget and monitoring the monthly cash flow of the organization;
• Provides the Board with comprehensive, regular reports on the revenues and expenditure of the organization; and
• Ensures that the organization complies with all legislation covering taxation and withholding payments.

Risk Management

• Identifies and evaluates the risks to the organization's people (clients, staff, management, and volunteers), property, finances, goodwill, and image and implement measures to control risks; and
• Ensures that the Board and the organization carry appropriate and adequate insurance coverage.

NOTE: Cover letters and resumes will be reviewed as they are received.

Education:  Four-year degree required. Post-graduate degree preferred.

Skills:  A dynamic individual with strong interpersonal, marketing, financial and management skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability to represent association with excellence among the business members NCNLA serves. Demonstrated knowledge of leadership and management principles as they relate to non-profit/ volunteer organizations. Knowledge of human resources, financial and project management.

Relevant Experience:  Ten to fifteen years of experience, with five to seven years of senior management experience in a trade association or related setting. Experience with the nursery and landscape industry is preferred. Advocacy experience with legislative and governmental agencies, marketing experience and experience building partnerships a plus.