With 36,000 members, the Virginia Association of REALTORS®, located in Richmond, has an outstanding opportunity for a new Chief Executive Officer. The chief executive officer collaborates with the Board of Directors as well as the 28 local associations, staff, members, and other stakeholders to work toward common goals in a rapidly changing environment. The CEO must be a transparent communicator who can deliver messages that motivate stakeholders and increase engagement.
The CEO is responsible for the overall administration and management of the association. The incumbent positions the association based on the strategic plan and the current and anticipated needs of the members and must be able to articulate an effective vision that aligns members, staff, and other stakeholders through change and uncertainty. The CEO is a connector and collaborator who can bring people together and build relationships to move positively forward.
The CEO is experienced at building a positive, transparent, and collaborative culture that values the accomplishments of others as well as the ability to embrace change while seeking out and valuing different opinions in a manner that builds trust. The incumbent must demonstrate an understanding of the nuances of collaborating with a wide variety of people and skill sets.
The position has oversight and responsibility for the following areas, in addition to other responsibilities:
Governance of Association Structure and Organizational Operation
Collaborates with volunteers to implement a strategic plan based on the vision of the organization.
Develops and implements programs and events that are in line with the strategic vision of the organization.
Is the decision-making authority for all operational procedures. Develops policies and procedures based on association competencies and goals and ensures sufficient flexibility to allow for creativity and responsiveness.
Develops, and recommends to the board, specific objectives and time frames for implementation of the board's strategic goals.
Ensures that governing documents and policies are flexible enough to allow the association to creatively respond to changing market conditions.
Physical and Financial Resources
Ensures strong financial position and revenue sources to operate the association at optimum and future levels with suitable funding available to act quickly on new initiatives. Ensures financial reserves are maintained with a solid investment policy in place.
Knowledge and understanding of Financial Statements.
Makes recommendations to leadership team, officers, directors and committee chair as appropriate.
Staff
Serves as a visionary leader who is able to spot trends and the industry impact.
Ensures staff compensation is competitive.
Ensures that professional development opportunities are provided to enhance association capabilities and staff knowledge of industry issues and trends.
Relationship with Members and Local Associations
Maintains targeted internal and external communications systems and delivery vehicles focused on enhancing current knowledge and discussion of future trends.
Interprets state, national and member board/association bylaws and other state association governing documents.
Analyzes board/association problems, offers suggestions, and makes recommendations for solutions.
Provides information about the National Association of REALTORS® and affiliated institutes, societies and councils.
Identifies and implements new strategic initiatives based on member needs and ongoing trends analysis.
Positions education, networking and social opportunities to enhance members’ career success and future needs.
Legislative Affairs
Plays a proactive role in analyzing, addressing, and impacting legal and regulatory issues. Develops and manages a high level of political- action activities, including special fundraising efforts and candidate development.
Works with other associations and organizations to meet legislative objectives.
Maintains a politically aware organizational culture.
Positions the association as a recognized leader in governmental advocacy in partnership with local and national associations.
Internal and External Relations
Forges effective and synergistic relationships, along with volunteer leaders, with government leaders and legislators; service providers, vendors, consultants, contractors; influential and market-share members/industry leaders, allied real estate groups who view the CEO and the association as resources and industry leaders; media and community groups; allied real estate organizations and culturally diverse groups, with an eye on building and leading political and business coalitions; other advocacy groups.
Ensures that leading brokers view the association, the volunteer leadership and the CEO as valued resources and industry leaders.
Works with leadership to recruit, develop and nurture volunteer leaders according to a comprehensive leadership development plan; maintains an organizational culture that builds strong partnerships between staff and volunteers.
Actively participates in and takes a leadership role to affect positive and collaborative relationships with local and national associations.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent; master’s preferred.
8-10 years of experience in a leadership role, preferably in the real estate industry.
RCE or CAE preferred.