Chief Association Executive jobs in the United States

POSITION VACANCY: Association Executive (AE)

Emerald Coast Association of REALTORS® (ECAR)

Location: Fort Walton Beach and Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Relocation Assistance: Considered

Website: www.EmeraldCoastRealtors.com

Organizational Overview

The Emerald Coast Association of REALTORS® (ECAR) serves approximately 5,400 members and manages an annual operating budget of approximately $2.5 million. The AE will oversee a dedicated staff of 9 full-time employees, fostering a positive, member-focused environment.

Reporting Relationship

The Association Executive (AE) reports directly to the ECAR President and the Board of Directors.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of executive-level management experience, ideally within a REALTOR® association or a related business association.
• Prior leadership of an organization with 5–15 employees and a $2M budget
• Proven track record in strategic leadership, financial management, staff development, and volunteer engagement.

Required Competencies

• Leadership & Interpersonal Skills: Ability to inspire, motivate, and guide staff and volunteers.
• Financial & Business Acumen: Proficiency in budget development, financial oversight, and strategic resource allocation. Experience with QuickBooks and association financial software is advantageous.
• Strategic Vision: Skilled in identifying opportunities, formulating objectives, and implementing plans that align with the Association’s mission.
• Staff Management: Demonstrated success in recruiting, developing, and retaining high-performing staff.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Adept at building and maintaining strong relationships with members, government entities, community organizations, and partner REALTOR® associations on local, state and national levels.

Key Responsibilities

• Vision & Strategy:
• Communicate and execute ECAR’s mission, values, and strategic goals.
• Anticipate market trends and regulatory changes to position ECAR for long-term success.
• Staff Leadership & Development:
• Cultivate a supportive, growth-oriented workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent.
• Set clear performance standards, provide professional development opportunities, and ensure competitive compensation structures.
• Maintain or oversee maintenance of all personnel records, performance reviews and job descriptions.
• Financial Oversight:
• Develop and manage the annual budget in alignment with strategic objectives.
• Ensure sound fiscal policies, robust accounting systems, and overall financial integrity.
• Board Liaison:
• Serve as a key advisor to the Board, providing timely updates on industry trends, policy implications, and organizational performance.
• Prepare or oversee preparation of board agendas, financial reports, and recommended policies for consideration.
• Member Services & Programs:
• Oversee the delivery of high-value member services, benefits, and educational programs.
• Continuously evaluate and enhance member engagement strategies.
• External Relations & Advocacy:
• Act as an ECAR spokesperson, when needed, cultivating productive relationships with government officials, community leaders, and the media.
• Collaborate with advocacy groups and support the REALTOR® Political Action Committee’s goals and initiatives.
• Compliance & Governance:
• Ensure operations adhere to ECAR bylaws, policies, ethical standards, and all legal requirements.
• Maintain a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Professional Development & Industry Engagement:
• Represent ECAR at Florida Realtors, NAR, and other relevant industry forums.
• Hold or obtain the Realtor Association Certified Executive (RCE) designation within two years of hire.

Desired Leadership Characteristics

• Collaborative Leadership: Encourages teamwork, open communication, and shared accountability.
• Strategic Thinking: Anticipates challenges, seizes opportunities, and implements innovative solutions.
• Political Savvy: Navigates complex legislative and regulatory environments effectively.
• Technological Proficiency: Embraces technology to improve efficiency, communication, and member value.

Personal Attributes

• Integrity & Credibility: Upholds the highest ethical standards, earning trust through honesty and transparency.
• Enthusiasm & Adaptability: Approaches challenges with optimism, resilience, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Engaging Communicator: Connects meaningfully with diverse stakeholders, fostering trust and collaboration.

Relationships

• Internal: ECAR Board of Directors, committees, staff, and volunteer leadership.
• External: Florida Realtors, NAR, other REALTOR® associations, local government officials, industry partners, and media outlets.

Compensation

A competitive salary and benefits package will be offered commensurate with qualifications and experience. Exceptional candidates may be considered for a customized compensation arrangement. The expected compensation range is $160,000–$190,000 plus a comprehensive benefits package.

Application

This is a prime opportunity to lead a prominent and dynamic REALTOR® association. We invite qualified candidates to apply and shape the future success of the Emerald Coast Association of REALTORS®.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $160,000.00 - $190,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Experience:

• Association: 5 years (Required)
• Microsoft Powerpoint: 1 year (Preferred)

Experience:

• Association: 5 years (Required)
• Microsoft Powerpoint: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person