Chamber of Commerce President CEO

The Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce; Shelby (NC); On-site; USD 70,200 - 85,800; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Flexible schedule

PTO

Job summary

A regional chamber of commerce in North Carolina is seeking a dynamic President & CEO to lead their mission-driven organization. This role involves strategic leadership, financial management, and community engagement to bolster membership growth and advocacy efforts. Ideal candidates will have a bachelor's degree and significant experience in leadership roles. The starting salary is $78,000 with benefits including holidays and PTO.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of senior leadership experience in a chamber, nonprofit, or similar environment.
• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.
• Experience in strategic planning and financial management.

Responsibilities

• Drive long-term planning and implement organizational goals.
• Lead and support Chamber staff and ensure efficient operations.
• Strengthen membership engagement and drive revenue growth.
• Develop and manage the annual budget for sustainability.
• Provide oversight of programs and events for member value.
• Build strong relationships with government and business partners.
• Serve as primary liaison to the Board of Directors.

Skills

Strategic planning

Financial oversight

Team leadership

Strong communication

Public speaking

Relationship-building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business or related field

Job description

The Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic and experienced President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead a mission-driven organization representing more than 600 member businesses. The President & CEO is responsible for advancing the Chamber’s strategic vision, strengthening member value, and serving as a key partner in economic and community development throughout Cleveland County.

Position Overview

The President & CEO provides strategic, financial, and operational leadership to the organization. This role requires a highly relational leader who can engage effectively with business owners, government officials, education partners, and community stakeholders. The CEO is responsible for membership growth, revenue development, staff leadership, program execution, advocacy efforts, and organizational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Drive long-term planning, implement organizational goals, and serve as the Chamber’s primary spokesperson to members, partners, and the community.
• Organizational & Staff Management: Lead and support Chamber staff, foster a collaborative culture, and ensure efficient operations across programs, events, and services.
• Membership & Revenue Growth: Strengthen membership engagement, drive new membership growth, and increase sponsorship and program revenue.
• Financial Management: Develop and manage the annual budget, oversee financial reporting, and ensure long-term sustainability.
• Programs & Events: Provide oversight of monthly programs and events, ensuring high-quality execution and measurable member value.
• Advocacy & Community Engagement: Build strong relationships with government, business, and education partners; advocate for policies and initiatives that support the business community.
• Board Relations: Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, providing recommendations, updates, and support for governance.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, organizational leadership, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of senior leadership experience in a chamber, nonprofit, economic development organization, or comparable business environment.
• Demonstrated ability in strategic planning, financial oversight, and team leadership.
• Strong communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.

Preferred:

• Experience in chamber management, community development, or economic development.
• Familiarity with Cleveland County or similar regional markets.
• Experience with fundraising, sponsorship development, or membership-based organizations.

Community

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Cleveland County is a welcoming community rich with heritage, beautiful landscapes, a comfortable climate, stable economy and friendly people. Cleveland County is centered between three larger metropolitan areas: Charlotte, Asheville and Greenville/Spartanburg. Our community gives you the ease of small-town living, yet you are just a short drive away from the leisure opportunities and activities offered in larger cities.

Compensation

Starting salary of $78,000 with paid holidays, a flexible schedule, and PTO. Consideration will be given based on experience, education, and qualifications.

Seriously interested candidates should email your resume and cover letter directly to Kathryn -