Reports To:

Chairman of the Board of Directors

Position Summary

The President & CEO of the Bay County Chamber is a highly visible and strategic community leader, responsible for protecting and enhancing the business environment to benefit businesses of all sizes in Bay County. The CEO serves as the lead spokesperson of the organization and cultivates partnerships with elected officials, business leaders, military representatives, and community stakeholders.

This role oversees all aspects of Chamber operations with a focus on:

• Strengthening member engagement and value
• Maintaining strength and influential status through leading advocacy and public policy efforts
• Driving revenue generation through membership, sponsorships, and programs
• Ensuring strong organizational governance and financial sustainability
• Elevating Bay County’s reputation as a premier place to live, work, visit, and invest

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial & Organizational Leadership

• Provide overall leadership in budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to ensure the Chamber’s long-term sustainability and alignment with strategic goals.
• Develop and manage an annual budget of approximately $1 million, presenting regular financial reports to the Board and Finance Committee.
• Oversee operations, staff development, performance management, and organizational culture to maintain a high-performing, mission-driven team.
• Manage facilities, capital assets, operational systems, and maintain compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and Chamber bylaws.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that align with strategic goals and ensure organizational efficiency.

2. Membership Engagement & Revenue Generation

• Oversee membership recruitment, retention, and engagement programs to maximize member value.
• Manage and conduct periodic reviews of major revenue streams including membership dues, Vision Investor Program, events, sponsorships, and grants.
• Ensure members find tangible value in Chamber programs and services through ongoing solicitation of feedback and assessment.
• Provide inspiration and leadership to Chamber volunteers executing on the organization’s goals and objectives.

3. Advocacy, Government & Military Relations

• Collaborate with the VP of Strategic Partnerships to build and sustain effective relationships with local, state, and federal government, military partners and civic leaders.
• Provide leadership and guide the growth and success of the Government Affairs and Military Affairs Committees.
• Facilitate monthly meetings with city and county managers to strengthen communication, collaboration, and community alignment.
• Serve as a thought leader and facilitate collaboration with elected officials, military representatives, and business leaders on emerging issues impacting the Bay County business community.
• Champion Chamber positions to members and the public via forums, events, op-eds, and media engagements.

4. Community & Economic Development

• Build collaborative partnerships with economic development organizations, workforce agencies, local governments, and military installations.
• Support initiatives to attract, retain, and expand businesses in Bay County.
• Lead projects and programs that strengthen the area’s economic competitiveness, workforce pipeline, and overall quality of life.
• Represent the Chamber on community boards, committees, and at public events to promote business growth and community development.

5. Communications & Marketing

• Serve as the Chamber’s primary spokesperson and oversee public relations initiatives.
• Supervise the creation and placement of publications, digital platforms, Bay Biz magazine, newsletters, podcasts, and social media campaigns.
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to elevate the Chamber’s visibility, brand, and reputation in the community.
• Optimize and leverage the Chamber’s CRM system investment

6. Governance & Strategic Planning

• Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement strategic plans, policies, and long-term goals.
• Facilitate Board engagement, including governance support, recruitment, and succession planning.
• Ensure Chamber-led board and committee meetings are well-planned, efficient and engaging for participants.
• Maintain transparency, accountability, and adherence to bylaws, accreditation standards, and organizational policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree strongly desired; advanced degree or MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of senior leadership experience in chambers of commerce, nonprofits, economic development, or related fields.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, membership growth, fundraising, and financial management.
• Skilled in advocacy, public policy, and government relations.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills.
• Ability to manage and inspire staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Deep understanding of economic development, small business needs, and workforce challenges.
• As the face of the Chamber, must be willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel locally/regionally as required.
• Must reside in, or be willing to relocate to Bay County

Resumes should be submitted to BayChamberCEOSearch@gmail.com.