CEO of the Durango Chamber of Commerce

The Durango Chamber of Commerce is a 501 (c)6 nonprofit organization guided by a 12-member board of directors, 650 members and serves the greater-Durango and La Plata County area. The Durango Chamber actively promotes community growth, supports local businesses, and promotes economic prosperity through communication, advocacy, education, and leadership. Established in 1915 by local business leaders, the Chamber is celebrating more than 100 years of supporting economic opportunity in the area. It has an annual budget of $500,000 and a staff of 4 FTE.

Position Summary:

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Durango Chamber of Commerce provides strategic direction, vision, and management to lead and advance the organization’s mission, objectives, programs, and personnel. They are responsible for strategic planning, member sales and services, financial management, public policy and advocacy efforts, program development, public speaking, and fundraising. This role requires a dynamic and visionary leader with strong business acumen, excellent communication skills, and a passion for driving economic development and business success.

Reporting:

The CEO reports directly to the Durango Chamber Board of Directors in accordance with the bylaws, participating in monthly board meetings and reporting to the executive committee (president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, and immediate past president).

Key Competencies:

1. Strategic Leadership

• Develop & execute strategic plans that align with the Chamber’s mission and vision based on direction of the board
• Lead initiatives to enhance the Chamber’s role as a catalyst for economic growth and community development
• Foster innovation and continuous improvement to ensure the Chamber remains relevant and responsive to members’ needs

1. Membership Development & Engagement

• Drive membership growth by developing and implementing effective recruitment and retention strategies
• Build strong relationships with existing and prospective members to understand their needs and deliver value-added services
• Support programs and events that promote networking, collaboration, and trainings for members

1. Advocacy & Public Policy

• Serve as the primary advocate and spokesperson for the Chamber on key business and policy issues
• Engage with government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders to advocate for pro-business policies and initiatives

1. Financial Management & Fundraising

• Develop & oversee the Chamber’s annual budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability
• Manage existing & identify new revenue sources (i.e.: grants) and opportunities to support Chamber programs
• Monitor financial performance and report regularly to the board of directors

1. Public Relations & Outreach

• Enhance the Chamber’s visibility and influence through effective public outreach
• Engage with the public by attending various community and official events and activities
• Serve as designated spokesperson for the Chamber and establish a working relationship with the media.

1. Board & Stakeholder Relations

• Plan and coordinate meetings of the executive committee, and chamber board
• Work closely with the Board of Directors to set strategic priorities and governance policies
• Facilitate productive board meetings and provide timely updates on Chamber activities and performance
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including business leaders, community organizations, and educational institutions

1. Organizational Management

• Develop, mentor, and recruit a high performing team to achieve organizational goals and objectives
• Foster a positive and inclusive organizational culture that values collaboration, integrity, and excellence
• Ensure effective operational management and compliance with relevant bylaws, regulations, and policies

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strategic vision with extensive skills to drive strategic planning for mission fulfillment with trackable objectives
• Demonstrated skills in supervision, team building, and performance management.
• Highly-developed interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
• Adept at coalition building, relationship management, and partner collaboration
• Essential management responsibilities, including board relations, understanding of bylaws, policies, financial oversight, and office administration
• Excellent communication skills (written & verbal) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence diverse stakeholders, the public, and officials
• Knowledge of marketing, business theories, member demographics, trends in the profession, best practice benchmarking.
• Facilities management, including managing tenants occupying space at the Durango Chamber of Commerce, building maintenance, aesthetics, landscaping, etc.
• Possess high standards of integrity, work ethic, trustworthiness, and personal responsibility

Qualifications:

• Five plus years of proven leadership experience in a senior executive role, preferably within a Chamber of Commerce, association, business, community or economic development field, or similar organization.
• Demonstrated understanding of political landscape and advocacy efforts for change and collaboration with elected officials at the state and local levels
• Financial acumen and experience in budget management and revenue generation
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, public policy, or related field
• Graduate of Institute of Organizational Management (IOM), WACE Academy Graduate, Certified Association Executive, or Certified Chamber Executive (or in process) preferred

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel locally and occasionally to state and national conferences and meetings.
• Commitment to the Chamber’s mission and values, with a passion for supporting local businesses, connecting the community, and fostering economic prosperity.

This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the business community and drive positive change in our region. If you are a visionary leader with a passion for business development and community engagement, we invite you to apply for this key leadership role at the Durango Chamber of Commerce.

Benefits

Position Status: Exempt, regular, full-time, salaried position with commission paid on select enhanced memberships. Eligible for discretionary bonus.

Benefits: Medical, dental, paid vacation and sick leave, holidays, SIMPLE IRA with company match, and cell phone reimbursement.

Salary range: $95,000 - $120,000 base with the opportunity of earning commission on new enhanced level membership sales