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Executive Director - Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce

To apply: Submit your resume and any relevant supporting materials for consideration to Arthur Havlicek at AHavlicek@smrchamber.com.

Position Overview

The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber (SMRC) is seeking a dynamic, results-oriented leader to serve as the Executive Director of the Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce (GNC). This position plays a vital role in advancing the economic vitality and business climate of the Greater Niles area through strategic organizational management, comprehensive membership programming, and proactive economic development services.

About the Organization

The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization founded in 1919, serving as the community and economic development arm of the Greater Niles area–Berrien County’s largest population center. With 300 active and engaged members and an annual budget exceeding $300,000, this position offers significant opportunity to expand membership, grow programming, and increase the Chamber's impact throughout the region.

Key Responsibilities

All activities will be supported by the suite of shared services SMRC provides, including membership, events, marketing, financial management, resource development, economic development, administrative support, and more.

Economic Development Services

• Business Retention & Expansion: Support the growth and success of existing businesses through regular outreach, business visits, and connections to resources.
• Business Attraction: Recruit new businesses and investment to the Greater Niles area in collaboration with regional economic development partners.
• Development Support: Provide information and assistance to businesses and developers regarding site selection, permitting processes, and available incentive programs.
• Resource Navigation: Connect businesses with available programs, services, and funding opportunities at the local, regional, and state levels.
• Community Development: Support initiatives that enhance quality of place, workforce development, and overall economic competitiveness.
• Regional Partnerships: Collaborate with SMRC, local municipalities, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to advance shared economic development goals.
• Promotion & Marketing: Market Greater Niles as a premier location for business investment and economic opportunity through targeted marketing and storytelling efforts.
• Progress Tracking: Monitor and report on economic development activities, outcomes, and key performance indicators to the Board and stakeholders.

Member Services

• Member Recruitment: Develop and implement strategies to attract new members and grow Chamber membership across diverse business sectors.
• Member Retention: Build strong relationships with existing members through regular outreach, personalized service, and responsive support.
• Value Delivery: Ensure members receive tangible benefits and return on investment through programs, services, resources, and advocacy.
• Membership Data: Maintain accurate membership records, classifications, billing, and reporting systems.

Organizational Management

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the Chamber's annual Program of Work and long-term strategic initiatives in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Board Relations: Support and staff Board meetings, coordinate committee activities, and ensure effective governance and decision-making processes.
• Financial Oversight: Manage the Chamber's budget, ensure fiscal responsibility, and develop sustainable revenue streams to support organizational operations and growth.
• Operations: Oversee day-to-day Chamber operations, including office management, record keeping, and administrative systems.
• Communications: Direct all Chamber communications, including newsletters, social media, website content, press releases, and member correspondence.
• Customer Service: Respond promptly and professionally to all inquiries, concerns, and requests for assistance.
• Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree or qualifying credential in business administration, economic development, public administration, urban planning, or a related field.
• Proven experience in chamber management, economic development, membership organizations, or related fields, with a track record of successful leadership and project management.
• Demonstrated record of successfully leading, advocating, and advancing complex, multi-disciplinary business, and public policy issues.
• Knowledge of local and regional business trends, economic conditions, and public policy issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Comfort representing the organization at meetings, events, and in the media.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, staff, and organizational operations effectively.
• Proficiency in data analysis and the use of relevant software tools.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work evenings and occasional weekends as required for events and meetings.
• Salary and Benefits: A competitive compensation package will be made available to the qualified candidate, including opportunities for performance-based pay raises through a fair and transparent evaluation process. Additionally, the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is pleased to offer the following benefits:
• Healthcare Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
• Vision and Dental: The option of Blue Vision and Blue Dental insurance coverage.
• Retirement Plan: Employer contributions to a retirement savings plan.
• Generous Time off: Generous vacation, sick-time, parental leave, and paid holidays to support work-life balance and personal well-being.
• Eligibility for Bonuses: Eligibility for an end of year bonus based on personal performance and organizational success.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for professional growth and development through training programs, workshops, and conferences.

Flexible Work Arrangements: Flexibility in work schedules and the option for occasional remote work.

Note: The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender, religion, or disability status of otherwise qualified individuals. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.