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Certified Association Executive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stryker Corporation

Executive Director

Olympia, WA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

Credentials such as Certified Association Executive (CAE) or School Nutrition Specialist (SNS). * Proven track record in strategic planning facilitation and sponsorship program growth. #J-18808 ...

New Opportunity

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 ...

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$26.5K

$93.6K

$184K

How much do certified association executive jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified association executive in the United States is $93,552.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Certified Association Executive?

A Certified Association Executive (CAE) is a professional designation awarded by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) to individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills essential to manage and lead associations and nonprofit organizations effectively. Earning the CAE credential requires meeting specific education and experience requirements and passing a comprehensive exam covering association management topics. The CAE is recognized as a mark of excellence and professionalism in the association management field.

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

To thrive as a Certified Association Executive (CAE), you need expertise in association management, strategic planning, and a solid understanding of governance, typically supported by a CAE credential and relevant experience in nonprofit leadership. Familiarity with association management systems (AMS), financial software, and board management tools is commonly required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you build consensus and drive organizational success. These competencies are crucial for effectively leading associations, ensuring operational excellence, and advancing member value.

What is the difference between Certified Association Executive vs Certified Meeting Professional?

CriteriaCertified Association Executive (CAE)Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)
CredentialsCAE designation, often requiring experience in association management, and passing the CAE examCMP certification, requiring meeting planning experience and passing the CMP exam
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in association management, nonprofit organizations, and industry associationsEvent planning, conference management, and meetings industry
Employer & IndustryAssociations, nonprofits, industry groupsEvent planning companies, hotels, corporate meeting departments

The Certified Association Executive (CAE) and Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) are both professional certifications in the events and association management industry. CAE focuses on leadership and management within associations, while CMP emphasizes expertise in meeting and event planning. Both certifications enhance credibility and career prospects but serve different professional roles within the industry.

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

Certified Association Executives often encounter challenges in maintaining high levels of member engagement, especially in diverse or geographically dispersed organizations. Balancing the needs of different member segments, adapting to new technologies for virtual engagement, and demonstrating the value of membership are common hurdles. Successful CAEs address these by implementing targeted communication strategies, leveraging member feedback to tailor programs, and utilizing digital tools to foster community and connection. Collaboration with dedicated membership and marketing teams is essential to continually refine engagement efforts and ensure the association's offerings remain relevant.
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Certified Association Executive jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Association Executive job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,552 per year, or $45 per hour.

Executive Officer

Home Builders Association of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$75K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

The Executive Officer provides strategic leadership for all association operations, including advocacy, membership engagement, communications, financial stewardship, workforce development, governance, and organizational management. The Executive Officer serves as the organization's primary spokesperson while fostering productive relationships with members, elected officials, regulatory agencies, local home builder associations, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and industry partners.

The successful candidate will lead a high-performing team while helping shape public policy that supports attainable housing and a healthy residential construction industry.


Primary Responsibilities

The Executive Officer will:

  • Provide strategic leadership and execute the vision established by the Board of Directors.
  • Direct all association operations, programs, staff, and financial management.
  • Lead implementation of the association's strategic plan and annual operating plan.
  • Collaborate with volunteer leadership to establish organizational priorities.
  • Manage and develop professional staff while fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
  • Serve as the primary spokesperson for the association with members, media, government officials, and industry stakeholders.
  • Lead legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts in partnership with contract lobbyists and volunteer leaders.
  • Develop strong working relationships with state elected officials, regulatory agencies, and coalition partners.
  • Maintain productive partnerships with Iowa's local home builder associations and the National Association of Home Builders.
  • Oversee communications, publications, meetings, conferences, and member engagement initiatives.
  • Ensure sound financial management, budget oversight, governance compliance, and organizational transparency.
  • Identify opportunities to strengthen membership growth and expand non-dues revenue.
  • Promote workforce development initiatives that strengthen Iowa's residential construction industry.


Desired Qualifications

Successful candidates will possess many of the following qualifications:

  • Executive leadership experience in an association, nonprofit, governmental, or related organization.
  • Demonstrated success in strategic planning, organizational management, and financial oversight.
  • Strong knowledge of legislative affairs, government relations, advocacy, or public policy.
  • Outstanding communication, public speaking, and media relations skills.
  • Proven ability to build relationships with volunteer leaders, elected officials, members, and stakeholders.
  • Experience leading professional staff and working with volunteer boards.
  • Strong business judgment and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
  • Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or CAE designation preferred.
  • Commitment to obtaining and maintaining the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential if not already held.


Leadership Characteristics

The ideal candidate will be:

  • A collaborative and trusted leader
  • Politically astute and relationship-oriented
  • Strategic, innovative, and forward-thinking
  • Financially disciplined
  • An exceptional communicator
  • Member-focused and service-driven
  • Ethical, transparent, and accountable
  • Passionate about advancing housing opportunities across Iowa