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 Director of Operations to oversee the day-to-day functions of their association. The Director of Operations will serve as the executive leader of the client partner association. Working in conjunction with volunteer leadership and the professional management staff, the Director of Operations is responsible for the overall management and operations of the association. In this capacity, the Director of Operations 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 Director of Operations shall demonstrate entrepreneurial business skills for the growth and development of association. 

The Director of Operations 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 FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

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

About Associations International LLC

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.

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