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Association Executive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Association Executive Apprentice Status: Full Time Reports to: Association Executive Salary: Please indicate salary expectations Position Summary . The Association Executive Apprentice shadows the ...

Serves as registered Lobbyist for the association. * Supervises office staff, provides leadership ... Certified Association Executive (CAE) certification is preferred * A highly self-motivated ...

Association Manager

Englewood, CO · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Certified Association Executive (CAE) preferred. * Must have reliable transportation. * Must have a valid driver's license. Why Work for Us: This hybrid role offers a competitive total rewards ...

Aquatics Training Specialist

Columbus, OH · On-site

$88K - $88K/yr

Works with Association executive Director of Aquatics to mentor Aquatics Experience Directors who are either new into their position or need additional guidance to ensure they are meeting all ...

Build executive-level relationships throughout the association space * Combine operational expertise with strategic consulting and business leadership * Help associations modernize and improve how ...

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Association Executive information

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$38.5K

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How much do association executive jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for association executive in the United States is $89,977.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Association Executive?

An Association Executive is a professional who manages the operations and administration of a membership-based organization, such as a trade association, nonprofit, or professional society. Their responsibilities typically include strategic planning, financial oversight, member services, event coordination, and advocacy efforts. Association Executives serve as the primary liaison between the board of directors, members, and staff, ensuring the organization achieves its mission and goals. They also oversee daily operations, manage staff, and represent the association at public events and meetings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Association Executive, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Association Executive, you need expertise in organizational management, strategic planning, and membership development, often backed by a degree in business, nonprofit management, or a related field. Familiarity with association management software (AMS), budgeting tools, and event management platforms is typical, and certifications like CAE (Certified Association Executive) are highly valued. Strong leadership, relationship-building, and communication skills help foster collaboration among staff, board members, and stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for driving organizational growth, engaging members, and ensuring effective governance.

What is the difference between Association Executive vs Event Coordinator?

AspectAssociation ExecutiveEvent Coordinator
CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in business, management, or related fields; certifications like CMP or CAE are commonTypically requires a bachelor's degree; certifications like CMP can be beneficial but are not mandatory
Work EnvironmentWorks within associations, nonprofits, or professional organizations, focusing on strategic managementWorks in various settings, including corporate events, nonprofits, and hospitality, focusing on event planning and execution
Employer & IndustryEmployers include professional associations, nonprofits, and industry groupsEmployers include event planning companies, corporations, and nonprofits

While both roles involve organizational skills, an Association Executive focuses on managing the overall operations and strategic direction of associations, whereas an Event Coordinator specializes in planning and executing specific events. The Association Executive typically has broader responsibilities and requires more strategic planning experience, while the Event Coordinator concentrates on event logistics and client coordination.

What are some common challenges Association Executives face in managing member engagement, and how can they address them?

Association Executives often encounter challenges in maintaining high levels of member engagement, especially as member needs and expectations evolve. To address this, it's important to regularly solicit feedback through surveys or focus groups, tailor programs and benefits to diverse member interests, and leverage technology to facilitate communication and networking. Collaborating closely with the board, committees, and staff helps ensure that engagement strategies align with the association's mission and goals. Staying proactive and adaptable is key to fostering ongoing member involvement.
More about Association Executive jobs
What cities are hiring for Association Executive jobs? Cities with the most Association Executive job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Association jobs? The most popular types of Association jobs are:
What states have the most Association Executive jobs? States with the most job openings for Association Executive jobs include:
Association Executive Apprentice

Association Executive Apprentice

Southern Middle Tennessee Association of REALTORS

Columbia, TN • On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

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Job description

Identification
Job Title: Association Executive Apprentice
Status: Full Time
Reports to: Association Executive
Salary: Please indicate salary expectations

 

Position Summary. The Association Executive Apprentice shadows the Association Executive and Executive Assistant of the Southern Middle Tennessee Association of REALTORS while meeting learning objectives outlined by executive staff and association leadership. Individuals successful in this role will receive consideration as successor to Association Executive. In addition, this person will play a role in purchasing, reporting, membership support, communications, and facilities management. The association and its affiliated networks are member-focused, and the AE Apprentice should know the basic activities of its REALTOR members and where to find information important to members’ daily business. The AEA will work closely with other staff, volunteers and leadership regarding association programs and activities to support NAR Core standards and other association or member goals. Ideal candidates in this role may not have an active real estate license and are required to pass a drug test/background check.


Essential Functions and Objectives

  • Observes and learns policies and procedures regarding administrative processes and systems.
  • Observes and learns procedures, assists with preparation for, and participates in meetings of Board of Directors and committees.
  • Focuses on learning goals, programs, policies, and procedures of local, state and national associations.
  • Maintains membership database and supports coordination of records with the state and national associations.
  • Helps ensure accuracy of the membership process including admissions and maintenance of records.
  • Helps ensure data integrity within the association management database, membership application processing and on-boarding.
  • Ensures maximum opportunity to build strong bonds within the organization and its members.
  • Observes and learns all marketing and promoting guidelines of the local state and national association and adheres to brand standards.
  • Observes and learns the role of the association in community involvement, including government affairs and advocacy.
  • Helps support non-dues revenue sources.
  • Support association’s efforts to adhere to NAR’s Core Standards.
  • Helps with annual reviews of policies, procedures, documentation and presence.
  • Provides project management support for membership recruitment, retention, and engagement activities.
  • Supports functions related to association property, equipment, and facility –ensuring culture of cleanliness and safety of the property.
  • Attend local, state and national real estate-related meetings (at the direction of the BOD) to bring innovation and education to members.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

  • Skilled in organizational development, time management, budget, and resource development
  • Excellent people and leadership skills, including working with the Board of Directors
  • Flexible and able to multitask
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office with the ability to learn new software quickly
  • Understanding and the ability to generate, manipulate and present financial and other reports to the Board of Directors and membership as requested
  • Understanding of video conferencing software and audio/visual equipment a plus


Preferred Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s Degree or 4 years’ experience in executive or association management
  • 1 – 2 years of related staff leadership experience
  • Real Estate industry knowledge


Work Environment and Physical Demands

  • Ability to manage multiple boards of directors at the same time.
  • Ability to communicate concisely and effectively, sometimes in public or large groups.
  • Ability to perceive, assess and respond to critical situations and emergencies in a timely manner , with or without reasonable accommodations
  • Ability to position self during event setup, filing, inventory control, moving up to 40lbs.
  • Ability to remain stationary for long periods.
  • Ability to travel for business-related educational opportunities.

Company Description

SMTAR is a not-for-profit organization serving a little over 700 members in 8 counties. We work to provide our members with continuing education, business services and information that will help them to growth their real estate business in an ever-changing market. We periodically assist members of the public in finding the resources they need during their real estate transactions.