Accord

About the Opportunity

Accord Telecommunications Collaborative is seeking a hands-on, execution-driven Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organization through its next phase of growth and development.

This is not a traditional CEO role. We are looking for a "working CEO"-a leader who can set strategy while actively managing day-to-day operations, building the business, and driving measurable results.

As an early-stage, collaborative organization, the CEO will play a critical role in shaping the future of Accord, advancing middle-mile network capabilities, and delivering value to members and enterprise partners.

Position Overview

The CEO is responsible for driving the overall success of the organization by executing Board-directed strategy while directly leading daily operations. This role ensures strong financial performance, operational efficiency, and scalable growth through disciplined P&L management, team leadership, and optimized network infrastructure.

This leader will position Accord for long-term success by strengthening its competitive position, securing funding for expansion, and delivering high-value telecommunications solutions in a dynamic and competitive market.

What You'll Do

Lead & Execute

• Serve as a hands-on CEO, balancing strategy with active operational leadership
• Translate Board priorities into clear, actionable plans and results
• Drive a culture of accountability, urgency, and execution

Run the Business

• Maintain full P&L responsibility with a focus on fiscal discipline
• Oversee operations, network performance, and service delivery
• Build scalable processes to support growth

Build the Organization

• Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performing team across engineering, sales, and operations
• Foster a collaborative, mission-driven culture
• Align team performance with organizational goals

Drive Growth & Network Strategy

• Lead network optimization and expansion efforts
• Simplify service delivery and enhance customer experience
• Translate technical infrastructure into meaningful business value

Engage Stakeholders

• Build strong relationships with members, partners, and key stakeholders
• Secure funding and support for expansion initiatives
• Represent Accord across industry, community, and government stakeholders

Ensure Compliance & Risk Management

• Maintain full compliance with telecom regulations
• Implement risk management practices to protect organizational assets

What We're Looking For

Core Capabilities

• Proven working CEO or senior executive who thrives in a hands-on environment
• Strong operational mindset with a bias toward action
• Strategic thinker who can execute and deliver results
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to translate technical concepts into business outcomes
• High integrity, accountability, and sound decision-making

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, telecommunications, or related field
• 10+ years of executive leadership experience (operations, finance, strategy)
• Experience working with or reporting to a Board of Directors
• Strong understanding of business operations and financial management

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in broadband or telecommunications
• Familiarity with middle-mile or infrastructure-based networks
• Experience in cooperative, member-based, or public-sector environments
• Background in securing funding or working with financial partners
• Advanced degree (MBA, MPA, or similar)

Location Requirement

• This position is currently fully remote, but the selected candidate must reside in or near Indiana

Why Join Accord

• Opportunity to build and shape a growing organization
• High-impact leadership role with direct influence on strategy and execution
• Collaborative, mission-driven environment
• Ability to make a meaningful impact on broadband infrastructure and connectivity