The CEO of the Spokane Business Association (SBA), with oversight from the Board of Directors, will be critical in developing a strategic plan to position the Association as an active voice and advocate for the business community. Engages regularly with local officials, partners, agencies and other key stakeholders. Represents the collective voice of local business to support a vibrant, supportive and sustainable business environment.

Highly skilled in communication, persuasion, and advocacy, the right candidate will possess a mix of seasoned business savvy with a deep understanding of government policy and administration. Strong organizational skills, fundraising, creativity, enthusiasm, and a sense of optimism while maintaining resilience will round out the CEO’s toolkit.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Represent and advocate for the business community of the City of Spokane.
• Act as the primary spokesperson for the SBA, effectively communicating the organization’s mission, vision, and goals.
• Establish and maintain strong working relationships with local and regional elected officials (Mayor, City Council, BOCC, etc) and relevant partner and government organizations.
• Create and implement position statements, action plans, campaigns and other tools to support key initiatives, as approved and/or assigned by the Board of Directors.
• Create and execute marketing campaigns to increase the SBA’s visibility and influence in political decision-making processes.

:

• Engage with SBA members to understand and identify business community needs, ideas and opportunities for support.
• Educate members, policymakers, business partners and other stakeholders on key issues.
• Activate the members as needed to advocate for effective policy. Provide members with the necessary direction, tools, and education for successful advocacy. Actively engage with local association partners and other organizations where appropriate.
• Ensure regular communication and opportunities for collaboration and involvement in the SBA’s activities and initiatives.

• Lead and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies, including sponsorship development and grant writing, to support the SBA’s operations and growth.
• Develop innovative fundraising events and initiatives to engage members and the wider community.

• Develop and implement Association policies and guidelines, as approved by the Board of Directors.
• Develop a fiscally-responsible annual budget.
• Create a staffing plan based on growth, if needed. Supervise SBA staff in support of the Association’s objectives.
• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance.

When needed, perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business administration, non-profit management, marketing or a related field preferred. Substantial relevant experience may be considered in lieu of the preferred education.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior management role. Management in the non-profit sector and/or Chambers of Commerce preferred.
• Fundraising experience including sponsorship development and grant writing required.
• Demonstrated experience working with Boards of Directors, committees, municipalities, and the public preferred.
• Broad business skills including strategy implementation, financial planning/projections, and operational including knowledge of and ability to use standard office software such as Microsoft Office.
• Strong oral and written communication and people skills.

WHO WE ARE:

As the leading advocate for the City of Spokane’s business community, we are dedicated to supporting the growth and success of our members. The Spokane Business Association stands as a bridge between business leaders and policymakers, ensuring that your interests are represented—both in support of and in opposition to legislative actions.

We are proud to forge strong relationships with elected officials, local organizations, and stakeholders, encouraging a collaborative environment that benefits all. We uphold a standard of integrity and transparency that keeps the focus squarely on the needs and aspirations of our local businesses.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $150,000.00 - $200,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• What is your expected annual salary for this position?

Work Location: In person