Executive Director

Mid-America Economic Development Council; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An economic development organization in Lake Charles, LA, is looking for an Executive Director to manage operations, financial activities, and community relations. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree and experience in leadership, budgeting, and public relations. Responsibilities include overseeing staff, developing membership, and executing programs. This full-time position requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work flexible hours. Join a vibrant community focused on economic growth and development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field required.
• Leadership or management experience in a relevant organization preferred.
• Experience with budgeting and financial management essential.
• Strong communication, networking, and public speaking skills are necessary.
• Proficiency with various software programs required.
• Flexibility to work during evenings and weekends is needed.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and implement Board policies.
• Manage financial planning, including budget development and fundraising.
• Drive member recruitment and engagement.
• Direct marketing, communication, and public relations efforts.
• Represent the organization in various settings.

Skills

Leadership skills

Financial management

Communication skills

Networking

Public speaking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, public relations, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

GrowthZone or ChamberMaster

QuickBooks

Websites and social media

Job description

ReCon is seeking candidates for a direct-hire opportunity for a client in Lake Charles, LA.

Help Shape the Future of Southwest Louisiana!

Southwest Louisiana is a strategic, business-friendly region anchored by Lake Charles, offering strong economic opportunity, robust infrastructure, and an attractive cost of living. Located along the I-10 corridor, the region provides efficient access to Houston, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans, supported by interstate, rail, port, and regional air connectivity. With billions of dollars in planned and active investment across energy, petrochemical, LNG, and infrastructure sectors, Southwest Louisiana continues to see sustained project activity that drives long-term growth and ongoing demand for professional services.

Position Overview

The Executive Director will manage daily operations, carry out the direction of the Board of Directors, and serve as the primary representative within the community. This position is responsible for overseeing staff, finances, membership development, programs, events, and external relations. This is a full-time, salaried position with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Board Relations & Governance

• Serve as the primary staff liaison to the Board of Directors, responsible for implementing Board-adopted policies and directives
• Oversee day-to-day operations, staff, contractors, and administrative systems to ensure efficient, accountable, and professional organizational performance
• Lead financial planning and management, including budget development, financial reporting, fiscal controls, and support for fundraising, sponsorship, and grant activity
• Drive member recruitment, retention, and engagement by building strong relationships and ensuring effective membership systems, communications, and value delivery
• Plan and execute programs, meetings, and signature events that are well-organized, financially sound, and aligned with organizational priorities
• Serve as the primary spokesperson, directing marketing, communications, and public relations efforts to elevate visibility, credibility, and member impact
• Represent in civic, governmental, and business settings, building strong partnerships that advance the organization’s mission

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, public relations, or related field
• Leadership or management experience, preferably in a Chamber, nonprofit, or membership-based organization
• Experience with budgeting and financial management
• Strong communication, networking, and public speaking skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, GrowthZone or ChamberMaster, QuickBooks (or similar), websites, and social media
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends