President & CEO

Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Reports to: Board of Directors
 
About the City of Haverhill
Haverhill, Massachusetts, called the Queen Slipper City, is a dynamic city on the Merrimack River. Renowned for its rich shoemaking heritage, Haverhill boasts a vibrant community and a mix of urban and suburban living across 34 square miles, home to around 70,000 residents. The city offers numerous parks and recreational activities, including a downhill ski area, cultural attractions, multiple golf courses, and a lively restaurant scene. One notable landmark is Winnekenni Castle, set within 700 acres of scenic beauty. Haverhill is also home to Northern Essex Community College, Holy Family Hospital, and Cedar’s Mediterranean Foods. Its diverse population enjoys an active arts scene and community events that strengthen local connections. With its convenient access to major highways, Boston, and commuter rail, Haverhill is an ideal spot for business and leisure. Haverhill's business community is diverse, featuring a blend of longstanding businesses and emerging startups. The city offers a thriving environment for entrepreneurs and established companies across various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, food production, healthcare, technology, and transportation, making it a dynamic hub for business development and investment.
Position Overview
The Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) is a nonprofit membership organization that represents the voice of local businesses. We are committed to boosting the economic vitality of our members by fostering a vibrant business environment. Our mission is to support the growth and profitability of our members by providing valuable resources, advocacy, information, networking opportunities, and avenues for success. The chamber is looking to hire an experienced and dynamic leader with an entrepreneurial spirit who excels at uniting people and organizations to drive positive change. We seek someone who values diversity and is passionate about fostering economic development in the Greater Haverhill area.
The President/CEO will oversee and manage all aspects of the chamber's operations and activities. This includes but is not limited to recruiting and retaining members, evaluating data and member feedback to guide the organization's direction, acting as the voice of business in the community, and serving as a liaison to media and local and state legislators. The role also involves participating in local and regional initiatives that advance the chamber's mission. 
This is an outstanding opportunity for an organized self-starter with proven leadership, sales, customer service, and financial acumen who is eager to make a transformative impact in a vibrant business community. The position affords executive compensation based on experience and qualifications. 
Key Responsibilities
Membership Development & Engagement

• Demonstrates a strong commitment to the community, prioritizing membership retention, membership growth, and membership development to ensure the Chamber remains valuable to its members, and a key business destination for its residents.
• Regularly assesses the needs and interests of the membership and develops/promotes services that align with their interests and business goals.
• Fosters positive relationships with members through advocacy, collaboration, and effective communication, while actively promoting Chamber benefits, services, and programs with a focus on engaging new members.

• The President/CEO will report directly to the Executive Board of Directors. Duties will include developing a schedule of meetings, working closely with the Chair to develop meeting agendas, and distributing meeting materials, and financial reports to Board members in advance of Board meetings.  The President/CEO also serves on every Board committee.   
• The President/CEO works in partnership with the Board of Directors to shape the strategic direction of the Chamber and develop strategic goals and initiatives that respond to the landscape and realities of the members and community stakeholders.

• Acts as the primary representative of the Chamber in the community, attending various business and community events, including those held in the evenings and on weekends.
• Identify opportunities to enhance the Chamber's influence in shaping the local business environment by working collaboratively with local and state legislators, community leaders, and business organizations.
• Proactively networks, initiates communication, and collaborates with including but not limited to the Mayor's Office, Economic Development Office, MVPC, and media to strengthen partnerships and enhance collaboration.

• Oversees the Chamber's daily operations, ensuring efficient resource utilization and strong financial management.
• Develops and manages the Chamber's budget in collaboration with the Board to ensure financial stability and long-term sustainability.

• Provides financial reports and budget projections to the Board and recommends responses and strategies.

• Manages Chamber employees to foster a positive work culture to develop and sustain a competent and energized team.

• Develops and oversees an effective marketing/social media/public relations program for the Chamber.

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience leading a member-driven organization, with a demonstrated ability to grow and engage membership.
• Strong operational and financial management skills, including budgeting, reporting, and strategic planning.
• Possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills including but not limited to reports, press releases, and presentations.
• Preferred experience in legislative advocacy or public policy, with a strong understanding of navigating local government and business environments.
• Preferred experience and strong working knowledge in social media management and website content development.
• Experienced in grant writing preferred.
• Experienced in event planning and coordination, including budget management, venue selection, vendor management, logistics, communication, event execution, and post-event evaluation, and capable of leading a large team of volunteers and delegating tasks efficiently.
• Spanish speaking is a plus.
• Must live within the Greater Haverhill area.