Executive Director

Position : Executive Director
Organization: Hendersonville Chamber of Commerce
Location: Hendersonville, TN
Reports To: Board of Directors
Salary: $105,000 plus benefits and potential bonus
Staff: 5

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

The Hendersonville Chamber of Commerce is the leading voice and resource for businesses in Hendersonville and Sumner County. The Chamber is dedicated to fostering economic growth, supporting local businesses, and enhancing community development.
Through a strong network of members, the Chamber provides programs, events, and resources that help businesses thrive. The organization is committed to collaboration, service, and strengthening the local business community.

POSITION OVERVIEW

In partnership with the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides leadership, direction, and operational oversight for the Chamber. This role is responsible for executing strategic priorities, recruiting and retaining members, managing day-to-day operations, and ensuring the organization delivers value to its members and the broader community.
The Executive Director serves as a connector across business, community, and civic stakeholders while maintaining a strong focus on organizational effectiveness and member engagement.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Organizational Leadership and Operations

● Lead day-to-day operations of the Chamber, ensuring effective and efficient execution of programs and services
● Manage and support staff, fostering a positive, collaborative, and accountable workplace culture
● Develop recruitment strategies for new members, providing hands-on approach to securing new chamber memberships and creating retention plans for retaining members
● Implement strategic priorities established in partnership with the Board
● Ensure systems, processes, and workflows support organizational effectiveness
Member and Community Engagement
● Build and maintain strong relationships with Chamber members, local businesses, and community leaders
● Support membership growth and retention through relevant programming and engagement strategies
● Maintain a visible and active presence in the community
● Ensure a strong member experience and customer-focused approach

Financial Management and Resource Development

● Develop and manage the annual budget in alignment with organizational goals
● Monitor financial performance and ensure responsible stewardship of resources
● Support revenue generation through events, sponsorships, partnerships, and membership initiatives

Board Partnership and Governance

● Work closely with the Board of Directors to implement strategic initiatives
● Provide regular updates, reports, and recommendations to the Board
● Support board and committee engagement and effectiveness
● Ensure alignment between board direction and organizational execution

Communications and Public Representation

● Serve as a primary representative of the Chamber within the community
● Communicate the Chamber’s mission, programs, and impact clearly and consistently
● Support marketing and communication efforts to strengthen visibility and engagement

Personnel Management

● Recruit, develop, and retain staff
● Establish and maintain personnel policies and practices
● Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Experience and Leadership

● Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in a nonprofit, business, or community-focused organization
● Demonstrated success in operations, program management, and team leadership
● Experience working with or supporting boards, committees, or volunteer organizations
● Track record of building relationships and engaging stakeholders

Skills and Competencies

● Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
● Ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders
● Organizational and operational management skills
● Sound decision-making and problem-solving ability
● Financial management and budgeting experience
● Ability to manage multiple priorities and execute effectively
● Professionalism, composure, and adaptability
● Customer-focused mindset with commitment to member value
● Proficiency with technology and communication tools

Education

● Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, marketing, or related field preferred

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

● Starting Salary: $105,000 with potential bonus
● Medical coverage
● Retirement plan
● Paid time off and holidays