Chief Executive Officer

Description

Position Summary

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the chief executive and administrative officer of the Tipton County Chamber of Commerce, responsible for implementing the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors while overseeing all day-to-day operations, programs, and services of the Chamber.

The CEO is the primary public representative of the Chamber and plays a critical role in advancing economic development, business advocacy, and community engagement across Tipton County’s rural business landscape. This position requires a highly visible, relationship-driven leader with strong fiscal accountability, organizational leadership, and the ability to cultivate meaningful relationships with small businesses, agriculture, nonprofits, local employers, and municipal partners.

Key Responsibilities

Governance & Strategic Leadership

• Execute Board-approved policies, goals, and strategic priorities
• Provide the Board with timely, accurate, and relevant reports to support informed decision-making
• Advise the Board on trends, challenges, and opportunities impacting the local business community
• Ensure compliance with bylaws, policies, and all applicable laws and regulations
• Prepare agendas, reports, and materials for Board and committee meetings

Membership Development & Retention

• Oversee recruitment, retention, and engagement of Chamber members
• Develop and deliver programs, benefits, and services that provide measurable member value
• Maintain accurate membership data and report trends regularly to the Board
• Assume direct responsibility for membership activities when a Membership Committee is not in place
• Build strong, personal relationships with business owners throughout Tipton County

Programs, Events & Sponsorships

• Oversee planning, execution, and evaluation of all Chamber programs and signature events
• Ensure events are mission-aligned, financially sound, and reflect positively on the Chamber
• Develop sponsorship opportunities that strengthen revenue and community partnerships
• Assume direct event responsibilities when an Events Committee is not in place
• Provide post-event reports to the Board

Community Relations & Advocacy

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and cheerleader for the Chamber
• Represent the Chamber to members, businesses, government agencies, schools, nonprofits, community partners and other stakeholders
• Advocate for policies and initiatives that support the local and regional business community
• Attend and participate in community meetings, events, and public functions

Financial Management & Sustainability

• Develop and manage the Chamber’s annual operating budget in alignment with Board direction
• Oversee fiscal operations including revenue collection, expenditures, audits, and financial reporting
• Monitor cash flow, reserves, and long-term sustainability
• Ensure transparent, accurate, and timely financial reporting to the Board
• Interface and support accountants to produce necessary tax reports and other products as necessary.
• Provide multi-year financial forecasts based on longer-term Board goals and milestones.

Grant Research & Administration

• Identify grant opportunities aligned with Chamber goals and strategic priorities
• Oversee preparation and submission of grant applications
• Ensure compliance with grant requirements and timely reporting
• Maintain a grants calendar and provide regular updates to the Board

Marketing, Communications & Branding

• Direct the Chamber’s marketing and communication strategies
• Oversee digital and print communications, including website, social media, and email campaigns
• Ensure consistent branding and professional messaging across all platforms
• Monitor outreach effectiveness and adjust strategies to drive engagement and attendance

Office & Operations Management

• Manage office operations, administrative systems, and records
• Supervise staff, interns, and contractors as applicable
• Maintain accurate membership and financial databases
• Ensure efficient operations within a small-staff or limited-resource environment

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, Communications, or related field. Masters in related field is highly preferred.
• Experience in senior-level leadership experience, preferably in a chamber, nonprofit, association, or local government environment
• Demonstrated success in organizational leadership, fiscal management, and stakeholder engagement
• Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
• Experience with grants management and fundraising

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Community-oriented and relationship-driven
• Comfortable wearing multiple hats in a rural organization
• Self-motivated with strong problem-solving abilities
• Professional, diplomatic, and trusted within the community
• Passionate about supporting local businesses and economic growth

Working Conditions

• Full-time executive role with flexibility for evening and weekend commitments
• Local and regional travel as required

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• This position does not currently offer employer-sponsored health insurance or retirement benefits
• Paid time off (PTO) package, including vacation and holiday time