Executive Director, Trade Association: Growth & Modernization

Keller Executive Search; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Health plan

Retirement plan

Job summary

Keller Executive Search is seeking an Executive Director for a national trade association serving manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and operators. The role focuses on growing membership, diversifying revenues through events and programs, and modernizing operations.

The successful leader will manage a lean team, partner with the Board, and drive strategic change while representing the industry with key stakeholders. Travel is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent required.
• 10+ years of senior leadership experience in a trade association or nonprofit.
• Proven track record of growing membership and net revenue.
• Experience leading an organization through major structural or strategic change.
• Experience with revenue diversification and member-centric programs.
• Strong working relationship with a Board of Directors and volunteer leadership.
• Knowledge of nonprofit finance, budgeting, and contracts.
• Experience with association management or CRM platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead growth and revenue, with net revenue growth targeting seven figures in operating budget.
• Drive membership recruitment, retention, and new offerings.
• Oversee modernization, brand refresh, and scalable processes and data capabilities.
• Build and lead a small staff; recruit key hires and foster a collaborative culture.
• Serve as executive lead for major annual industry trade shows and year-round programs.
• Partner with the Board to implement strategic governance and report on finances, risks, and opportunities.
• Oversee operations: finance, compliance, HR, technology, and annual audit.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Public speaking

Communication

Fundraising / Revenue growth

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

CAE certification (plus)

Tools

CRM platforms

Association management systems

Job description

Keller Executive Search is seeking an Executive Director for a national trade association serving manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and operators. The role focuses on growing membership, diversifying revenues through events and programs, and modernizing operations.

The successful leader will manage a lean team, partner with the Board, and drive strategic change while representing the industry with key stakeholders. Travel is required.