Job Description

The Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) is conducting a search for a Chief Executive Officer. IECA is the premier membership organization representing professionals who serve students and families navigating their educational journey. In a time of rapid change and opportunity, IECA is seeking a visionary Chief Executive Officer who can drive the organization forward with innovative ideas and strategic growth. The new leader will be tasked with bringing fresh perspectives and steering IECA towards a future of continued excellence and impact.

IECA seeks a dynamic and relational CEO who will lead and expand the organization, foster membership growth, implement widely embraced initiatives, and demonstrate industry leadership. As a direct liaison to the Board of Directors, the CEO will skillfully champion the organization's interests to members, volunteers, and governing entities. The CEO will be instrumental in infusing the organization with new ideas and driving innovation. This role demands a leader who excels in strategic thinking, effective communication, and member engagement.

Candidates preferably bring association management experience and a nuanced understanding of the consulting landscape and collaborative partner organizations. Integral to their success will be a leadership approach characterized by shared decision-making, a relentless pursuit of results, and a sincere, education-focused mindset. Essential attributes include adaptability, effective communication, approachability, outstanding interpersonal abilities, and a compelling public presence.

Review of applications and expressions of interest will begin immediately and continue on a confidential basis until an appointment is made.

Responsibilities

• Visionary Leadership of the IECA Culture: Drive transformational change by establishing IECA's strategic direction as the leading voice of the profession.
• Drive operational excellence across all IECA functions and processes by balancing hands-on support with strategic planning, managing multi-program operations, optimizing organizational resources, and aligning day-to-day tasks with long-term planning.
• Effectively, strategically, and efficiently manage financial resources to ensure IECAs sustainability and growth, while providing legal and compliance oversight.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills that foster meaningful relationships with staff, members, and the broader community.
• Leading the IECA staff with vision, inspiration, and collaborative decision-making.
• Connecting with IECA members to understand needs, foster engagement, provide support, help build professional and sustainable practices, work to harmonize college, school, and therapeutic elements, and strengthen the community.
• Partnering with the Board to align strategic priorities and governance objectives.
• Representing and advocating for IECA as the primary spokesperson, including engagement with government officials, the media, related educational associations and agencies, and the public.
• Inquiring continuously to stay informed about trends, challenges, and emerging opportunities.

Qualifications

• Organizational Commitment: Ability and commitment to manage a 501c6, member-driven association.
• Leadership Experience: Five to ten years of experience as a visionary, resourceful, and transparent senior leader, with a strong preference for experience in the association and education sectors.
• Financial Management: Proven leadership in creating and managing an organization's budget and cash flow at both a macro and micro level. Includes the ability to pivot quickly during economic conditions related to both membership pressures and association financial pressures.
• Leadership Philosophy: An empathetic, supportive, ethical, and education-focused mindset combined with exceptional business acumen, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Governance Experience: Prior successful experience working directly with, or reporting to, a Board of Directors.
• Operational Management: History with the successful management of a dynamic, multi-program, member-driven organization, and a strong understanding of what it takes to maximize program effectiveness, maintain deliverable quality, and optimize resources.
• Decision-Making Ability: Proven ability to make sound, timely, and educated business and managerial decisions, highlighting strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• External Relations: A strong public speaking and media presence to effectively represent the organization and engage with external stakeholders.
• Membership Leadership: Demonstrated ability to engage and lead a dynamic membership and volunteer community, fostering collaboration, cohesion, and a strong sense of shared purpose across the organization.
• Staff Management: Proven ability to lead and manage staff with an approachable, positive leadership style that builds trust and promotes collaboration in a fast-paced environment.
• Culture and Partnerships: Experience in fostering an inclusive and diverse organizational culture while establishing and maintaining positive partnerships. Demonstrated strategic thinking, innovation, and effective listening and communication skills.
• Technology Oversight: Experience utilizing technology to improve organizational processes and efficiency.
• Education Requirements: Four-year degree with a Master's degree preferred but not required.

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