President

Position Summary 
The President of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the organization. This role is responsible for advancing the mission of the Chamber by strengthening the business community, fostering partnerships, enhancing member value, and supporting economic and community growth throughout Knox County. The President provides visionary and operational leadership, oversees daily administration and financial management, builds strong relationships with members and stakeholders, and ensures alignment with the Chamber’s strategic plan. This individual serves as a visible and trusted leader in the community, representing the Chamber with professionalism, integrity, and a passion for Knox County.

Primary Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Governance
- Lead the implementation of the Chamber's strategic plan with measurable outcomes tied to member engagement, business success, community collaboration, and organizational sustainability. 
- Work with the Board of Directors to review progress, refine priorities, and maintain alignment with the Chamber vision, mission, and values. 
- Provide thoughtful recommendations and insights to the Board regarding opportunities, trends, challenges, and emerging issues affecting business and community growth. 
- Serve as the primary liaison between the Board and the Chamber staff, ensuring open communication, strong alignment, and collective success. 
Operational and Organizational Management
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the Chamber and its programs, services, events, and initiatives.
- Recruit, develop, supervise, and support Chamber staff in a collaborative and positive work environment focused on excellence, innovation, and service.
- Ensure the Chamber follows established policies, bylaws, and best practices in nonprofit and association management.
- Develop and present an annual business plan aligned with the strategic plan and Board direction.
Financial Management and Sustainability
- Develop and manage the annual operating budget, ensuring financial integrity, transparency, and accountability.
- Lead efforts to maintain and grow non-dues revenue opportunities, including sponsorships, programming, promotions, events, and grants.
- Monitor financial performance and provide regular financial reporting to the Board of Directors.
- Ensure efficient financial systems, controls, and documentation are in place
Advocacy and Public Policy Leadership
- Serve as a strong advocate for the business community at the local, state, and regional levels.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with elected officials and government agencies.
- Communicate key business policy issues and priorities to the membership.
- Represent the Chamber on boards, committees, and task forces relevant to community and economic development.
Community Leadership and Partnerships
- Serve as a collaborative partner with key organizations, including economic development agencies, educational institutions, workforce partners, local governments, and nonprofit organizations.
- Represent the Chamber as a community leader and trusted convener, committed to driving a strong local economy and community pride.
- Support initiatives aligned with the strategic plan, including talent development, workforce pipeline initiatives, quality of life efforts, business climate improvement, youth engagement, and community advancement.
Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations
- Serve as the public spokesperson for the Chamber and maintain strong visibility throughout the community.
- Oversee marketing, branding, and communication strategies to promote Chamber programs, advocacy work, and business success stories.
- Strengthen awareness of the Chamber’s role, impact, and value to the business community and citizens of Knox County.

Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree preferred or an equivalent combination of education and executive-level experience.
- Minimum of five to eight years of progressively responsible leadership experience, preferably within a Chamber of Commerce, association, nonprofit organization, economic development organization, or comparable environment.
- Experience working with volunteer leadership and boards of directors.
- Strong understanding of financial management and budgeting.
- Proven leadership, staff development, and team management experience.
- Exceptional relationship-building skills with diverse audiences.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.