The Gaston Regional Chamber of Commerce is seeking a visionary President for a growing 850+ member Chamber.  GRCC serves its members as an advocate for business in economic development, workforce education and development, legislative issues impacting local businesses, and marketing business to business in the local area.  The Chamber is driven by an annual program of work and a strategic plan focused on the meeting the needs of our members.  Key programs and services provided by the GRCC include but are not limited to: workforce development, economic development, governmental affairs, networking events, Leadership Gaston, candidates forums, fundraising activities, and marketing member to member and beyond. 

The Chamber President/CEO reports to a 35 member Board of Directors, leads a 7 member staff and manages an operating budget of $800,000+.  The President/CEO is the chief executive officer of the Chamber and plans, directs and controls all activities of the Chamber to achieve stated goals, objectives and the annual program of work.  The President is expected to communicate and implement all Chamber policies and provide the leadership, direction and engagement of the business community to maintain a high level of enthusiasm and momentum among the membership, Chamber staff and the business community. 

Qualified candidates are expected to have the following skills and/or experience:

·         Four year college degree preferred

·         Knowledge and/or experience in economic development

·         Chamber Institute completion preferred

·         Knowledge of workforce development

·         Staff management experience

·         Experience working with a Board of Directors

·         Knowledge of Financial management

·         Leadership/Management experience

·         Knowledge of marketing, developing sponsorships and conducting fund producing events

·         Minimum of 5 years experience in Chamber work or a related field preferred

This position opportunity includes a competitive compensation and benefits package with a performance based incentive plan.

For confidential consideration, please submit cover letter, resume and salary requirements by October 31, 2009 to:
Malinda Lowery
Chair, Search Committee
c/o Alison Cookson
Gaston Regional Chamber of Commerce
601 West Franklin Boulevard
Gastonia, North Carolina  28052

OR/ Electronically (preferred)
searchcommittee@gastonchamber.com

Send requests for additional information or a position profile to the email address listed above.