Emerging Career Professionals

Purpose
The Emerging Leaders Board (Board) provides a collaborative opportunity to early to mid-career professionals looking to have their initial board experience. Members seek to enhance the mission of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission (GCSC) and elevate the image of Columbus while also providing an introductory experience aimed to educate professionals on general board responsibilities and further develop leadership skills.

Mission of the Board

The Emerging Leaders Board furthers the advancement of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission through advocacy, engagement and the execution of yearly events that support the GCSC's mission. The Board is comprised of passionate early to mid-career professionals from Greater Columbus that advocate for the vision of the GCSC.

Emerging Leaders Board Benefits

• Opportunity to enhance the economy, image and quality of life in the Greater Columbus community through sporting events and activities.
• Network with the Greater Columbus Sports Commission's Executive Committee, Board of Commissioners and staff.
• Better understand the Greater Columbus Sports Commission's goals and ongoing projects.
• Gain an introductory opportunity to acclimate to a board environment and demonstrate leadership skills.
• Develop relationships with likeminded career professionals in Columbus.
• Access to purchase tickets to select events ahead of the public. (subject to availability)
• Dedicated page on the Greater Columbus Sports Commission website.

Meeting Schedule
The Emerging Leaders Board will meet quarterly in person and is not limited to:

• Quarterly Board meetings at various locations around Columbus.
• Awareness events, when appropriate.
• Social events can include happy hours, athletic events, etc.
• Networking events with the Greater Columbus Sports Commission's staff and board members.
  

Terms

Board members are selected for one (1) three-year term (may be adjusted for those in leadership positions).
Emerging Leaders Board positions are non-transferrable within an organization.

Annual Dues

Board members are required to pay a non-refundable annual dues of $1,000 (personal or corporate contribution), which will be invoiced annually. The first invoice will be sent by March 1, 2027.

Application Process and Criteria

Interested applicants must:

1. Generate an application including their contact information.

2. Provide cover letter with responses to questions. (Outlined Below)

3. Provide a current resume AND your LinkedIn Profile link.

4. Provide Letter of recommendation by a supervisor or mentor.

The selection committee will be comprised of Greater Columbus Sports Commission staff, Emerging Leadership Board leaders, and members of the GCSC Board, they will review applications and select viable candidates for an interview.

The ideal candidate should be looking for their initial board experience, demonstrate positive contributions to their respective field, initiative taken in the workplace that goes beyond roles and responsibilities and a passion for Columbus through service activities or other initiatives.

Cover Letter Questions. In your cover letter briefly answer the following questions:

• Why are you motivated to apply for membership to the Greater Columbus Sports Commission Emerging Leaders Board?
• What professional skills and experiences will make you an ideal candidate and allow you to contribute positively to the Greater Columbus Sports Commission and its Emerging Leaders Board as described?
• Describe a time, either personally or professionally, where you took a leadership role. Describe the situation, how you navigated this situation, and the outcome, as well as your opinion of the outcome, i.e. was it expected or did it surprise you in some way?
• What would you like to gain from being a member and what will this organization gain from your membership?
• How will you contribute to advancing the Greater Columbus Sports Commission's mission and achieving its goals?

DEADLINE: Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Please note:

*This is a volunteer role. Members of the Emerging Leaders Board are not considered employees and shall not be compensated for their services.
*Greater Columbus Sports Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer and believes in the value of diversity on its board.'