Executive Director

IACCE - Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives; Geneva, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce is seeking an Executive Director to lead a vibrant organization comprised of 600+ member businesses in Geneva, IL. You will work with the Board, staff, and volunteers to advance the local economy and represent the Chamber at events and community gatherings.

The ideal candidate is an outstanding communicator, strategic thinker, and skilled at building relationships, with a track record in nonprofit governance and budgeting.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of executive leadership experience in nonprofits.
• 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) experience suggested but not required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee finance, payroll, budgets, and financial reporting; coordinate with auditors and prepare board materials.
• Manage city and government relations, permits, reporting, and attendance at meetings.
• Plan and coordinate events, vendors, and staff, ensuring successful on-site execution.
• Lead marketing and membership efforts, support committees, and organize multi-chamber events.

Skills

Executive leadership

Public speaking

Relationship building

Nonprofit governance

Budget management

Event planning

Job description

Address:8 S. Third Street Geneva, IL 60134-0481

POSITION SUMMARY

As the leader of our vibrant Geneva Chamber of Commerce, the new Executive Director will work among our dedicated Board of Directors, talented staff, committed volunteers, and our 600+ engaged member businesses and organizations. At a pivotal moment in our history, your vision will contribute to the local economy in Geneva, and your voice will influence our business community and leaders now and in the future.

An exceptional communicator, our ideal candidate thinks strategically, listens carefully, and excels at building relationships. Ideally, you'd feel comfortable serving as the public face of the Chamber at networking and community gatherings, making introductions and emceeing the occasional event. And you should be enthusiastic about supporting the needs of businesses of all sizes and industries—bonus points if you have a knack for remembering names and faces.

You’ll get to wear a lot of hats and are likely to discover many opportunities to experiment with new ideas. Our ideal candidate will be excited about expanding our organization and building a healthy, encouraging company culture.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

• Manage accounts payable, payroll, bank deposits, petty cash, budgets, & financial reporting
• Coordinate with the bookkeeper & audit firm, including preparation of annual audit materials
• Prepare board agendas, minutes, staff reports, & financial reports
• Manage office contracts, insurance coverage, payments, & commission reports
• Oversee employee administration & HR-related functions, including health insurance, payroll, & 401(k) administration
• Provide backup support across all staff functions

CITY & GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

• Coordinate with city departments & public safety agencies for events
• Manage event permits, liquor licensing, insurances, & other required city permits
• Attend City Council meetings as needed
• Prepare city grants reports, including hotel/motel reporting if required
• Coordinate with county & complete annual property-use approvals

EVENT PLANNING & COORDINATION

• Serve as the primary liaison with county, park district, school district, & public library partners
• Coordinate vendors, including tents, stages, entertainment, & other event needs
• Assist with event purchasing & work with Office Manager on vendor/service orders
• Oversee event preparation, setup, execution, & breakdown, including staff coordination, equipment, tables, chairs, fencing, & other logistical needs
• Represent the Chamber on-site at events & ensure all requirements outlined in festival plans are completed

MARKETING & MEMBERSHIP

• Collaborate with the Communications Director on Chamber & festival advertising
• Support membership meetings & address member concerns & issues
• Participate in Chamber committees, including the Non-Profit & Retail Committees
• Organize and participate in multi-Chamber events and executive groups

EDUCATION:

EXPERIENCE

• 5-7 years of executive experience
• 501c6 and 501c3 experience suggested but not required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven background in running membership organizations, non-profits, or business operations.
• Ability to manage operational budgets, staff supervision, and revenue streams.
• Deep involvement in local civic, volunteer, or regional networking groups.
• Skill in promoting local commerce, tourism, and organizing large community events

Interested parties should reach out to Joseph Matty at

The New England roots of the families who settled present day Geneva are evident in the well-preserved homes they built. Some, like the 1844 Sterling home on East Side Drive, are of stone quarried on the banks of the Fox River; others, such as the 1852 Isaac Wilson House, 115 Campbell, are of wood, made possible when a saw mill came in 1838. The Chamber showcases many of Geneva’s historic homes during the annual Christmas Walk.

By spring, the 1830s settlement on the banks of the Fox River, was renamed “Geneva” after being designated the Kane County Seat. The 1838 survey of the area between North and South Streets and the west bank of the Fox River to Ninth Street is Original Town; the lots and streets remain exactly as platted. Geneva’s historic significance, robust business climate, award-winning schools, and strong community involvement make it an ideal place to live, to work and to raise a family. Geneva is an excellent location for a business, either large or small, whether engaged in retailing or manufacturing or, perhaps, offering entertainment or services.

About the Chamber

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce is committed to the growth and success of your business. With over twenty different groups to join, various sponsorship opportunities, and a calendar full of workshops and seminars, there is no doubt you’ll network with key referral sources and potential clients!

MISSION STATEMENT

To serve the Geneva, Illinois community as a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and strengthening local businesses, promoting tourism, and enriching the overall community experience. Through collaborative programs, strategic partnerships, and community events, we work to foster a vibrant local economy, champion small business success, and showcase Geneva as a premier destination to live, work, and visit.