GENERAL MANAGER

Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce; Toowoomba Regional; On-site; AUD 170,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

The Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic leader to guide one of Australia’s largest regional Chambers. You will balance strategic direction with hands-on operations, engaging government, media and members to strengthen the local business community.

You will manage budgets, drive governance, oversee major events and programs, and lead a small team to deliver measurable outcomes for members across the Toowoomba region.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a mid-size or larger organization.
• Proven ability to influence stakeholders and partners.
• Strong financial oversight and budgeting skills.
• Excellent communications and relationship-building abilities.

Responsibilities

• Advocacy & representation with government, industry and stakeholders.
• Lead day-to-day operations of the Chamber and key initiatives.
• Grow and retain members; manage partnerships and engagement.
• Oversee events and networking programs in the region.
• Manage member communications, media engagement and campaigns.
• Support governance processes and ensure compliance obligations.
• Manage budgets, cashflow, reporting and sustainability.
• Lead a small team to deliver outcomes for members.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Governance

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or equivalent

Tools

Xero

Microsoft 365

Job description

Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce - Toowoomba QLD

Are you an experienced leader who enjoys variety, thrives in a fast-paced environment and isn't afraid to roll up your sleeves?

Are you ready for a role that will strengthen your engagement with community, build connection, and give you genuine opportunity to influence the direction of the both the organisation and also the success of the Toowoomba business community

The Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce is seeking a leader to drive one of Australia's largest regional Chambers of Commerce and continue our proud tradition of advocating for, connecting and supporting the local business community. The Chamber has a proud 127-year history and remains an independent and respected voice for business across the Toowoomba region.

About the Role

This is not a traditional corporate role.

On any given day you may find yourself meeting with government representatives, speaking to the media, preparing Board reports, responding to member enquiries, reconciling Xero, scheduling social media, helping coordinate an event, managing budgets or drafting communications.

While supported by a small and highly effective team, this position plays an active role in almost all areas of Chamber operations. Success in this position requires a practical, organised and adaptable leader who enjoys being involved in both strategic leadership and operational delivery.

This role may suit an experienced or emerging CEO, General Manager, Operations Manager or senior business leader looking for an opportunity to make a genuine impact on the local business community.

Key Responsibilities

• Advocacy & Representation - Be the voice of local business and represent members with government, industry and key stakeholders.
• Operations - Lead the day-to-day operations of the Chamber and key initiatives including the Business Excellence Awards, Toowoomba Young Chamber, Food & Agri Network and advocacy activities.
• Membership & Partnerships - Grow and retain members, manage key partnerships and ensure strong member engagement.
• Events & Programs - Oversee and support the delivery of the Chamber's annual events calendar, networking programs and major events.
• Marketing & Communications - Manage member communications, media engagement, marketing activities and Chamber advocacy campaigns.
• Governance & Administration - Prepare Board reports, support governance processes and ensure compliance obligations are met.
• Financial Management - Manage budgets, cashflow, reporting and organisational sustainability.
• Team Leadership - Lead a small team while working alongside staff to deliver outcomes for members.

About You

You will be:

A strong relationship builder and communicator.

Highly organised and comfortable managing multiple priorities.

Equally comfortable in the boardroom, at a networking event or behind a desk completing administrative work.

Confident managing budgets, projects and organisational operations.

Comfortable working in a small team environment where everyone contributes to delivery.

Passionate about supporting local business and driving positive outcomes for the region.

For a confidential discussion, please contact President Barton Castley on 0437 175 ***.