Executive Director

Symphony Search; St. Charles (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Symphony Search is seeking a highly visible, relationship-driven Executive Director to lead the St. Charles Area Chamber of Commerce. This pivotal role requires engaging with local businesses and community leaders, driving membership growth, and overseeing operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership skills, strategic thinking abilities, and a strong capacity for relationship building within the community. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the local economy and business environment.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in nonprofit, business, or community-based organization.
• Comfortable engaging with business owners and community leaders.
• Experience working with boards or stakeholders preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary ambassador for the Chamber.
• Drive member recruitment, retention, and engagement.
• Partner with the Board to define and execute strategic priorities.
• Oversee day-to-day operations in collaboration with internal staff.
• Collaborate with the City of St. Charles and regional organizations.

Skills

Relationship-building

Communication skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership experience

Financial awareness

Job description

The St. Charles Area Chamber of Commerce has supported the local business community since 1922. With nearly 500 member businesses, we are committed to strengthening our local economy through connection, advocacy, education, legislation and collaboration.

We serve a diverse network of businesses across St. Charles and surrounding communities and play an active role in fostering a vibrant, business-friendly environment.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a highly visible, relationship-driven Executive Director to lead the Chamber’s next phase of growth.

This role serves as the face of the Chamber, building strong relationships with local businesses, community leaders, and regional partners while working closely with the Board of Directors to shape strategy and direction.

The ideal candidate is comfortable in a community-facing role, enjoys engaging with business owners, and can balance strategic leadership with organizational oversight.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Community Engagement & Leadership

• Serve as the primary ambassador for the Chamber
• Build and maintain strong relationships with members and sponsors
• Actively engage with local businesses and community stakeholders
• Represent the Chamber at events and public meetings

Membership & Sponsorship Growth

• Drive member recruitment, retention, and engagement
• Strengthen sponsor relationships and ensure delivery of value
• Enhance the overall member experience

Strategic Leadership

• Partner with the Board to define and execute strategic priorities
• Contribute ideas to strengthen the Chamber’s impact and relevance
• Provide regular updates on performance and organizational health

Operations & Team Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day operations in collaboration with internal staff
• Ensure successful execution of events and programs
• Foster a positive, accountable team environment

Partnerships & Advocacy

• Collaborate with the City of St. Charles, Business Alliance, and regional organizations
• Represent member interests in community and economic discussions
• Manage budgeting, financial reporting, and organizational sustainability
• Support revenue growth through memberships, sponsorships, and events

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

• Strong relationship-building and communication skills
• Comfortable engaging with business owners and community leaders
• Proven leadership experience (nonprofit, business, or community-based organization)
• Strategic thinker with the ability to execute
• Financial and operational awareness
• Experience working with boards or stakeholders preferred

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE:

• Strong relationships built with members and sponsors
• Consistent, professional communication with Board and stakeholders
• Well-executed events and programs
• Increased member engagement and retention
• Clear visibility into organizational performance

WHY THIS ROLE:

St. Charles is a growing community with a strong small-business culture. This is an opportunity to lead a respected organization, build meaningful relationships, and make a direct impact on the local business community.

APPLY

If you are a relationship-driven leader who enjoys being active in the community and working with local businesses, we encourage you to apply.