Executive Director

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ACCOUNTABLE TO: Under the direct supervision of the Board of Directors

Position Summary: The Executive director, under the authority granted by the Board of Directors is responsible for marketing, growth, planning, organizing, and directing all operations including program objectives, finances, staff, and quality of member services. Adhere to the Chamber mission: Serve our members; Provide an environment where businesses can grow and prosper; Enhance the quality of life in the Mattoon area.

Residency Requirements: The Executive Director must be a resident of Mattoon (zip code 61938). Or if the newly employed director is from outside the area, they must be willing to relocate with a reasonable amount of time.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

Marketing & Growth:

· Maintain a high profile in the business community. This includes positions on boards, commissions and committees that contribute to the success of chamber businesses and the betterment of the entire community. These include the Tourism Advisory Board, The City of Mattoon Planning Commission, The City of Mattoon TIF Fund Board and the City of Mattoon Revolving Loan Fund Committee.

· Work to expand membership. Solicit help from the Board and business connections to increase chamber membership.

Program Development & Accomplishment:

· Work with the Board of Directors to develop an annual Business Plan reflecting the organization’s purpose and membership needs for the fiscal year.

· Establish, maintain, and evaluate objectives and strategies for meeting said objectives.

· Develop and coordinate the necessary leadership and volunteers to accomplish the Business Plan.

Finance:

· Evaluate the financial needs by program, administration and operations annually.

· Prepare an annual budget and assure the organization is managed within these financial guidelines.

· Develop general plans for meeting the budget.

· Have prepared quarterly statements of income and expense.

Staff:

· Establish and maintain a staff consistent with program needs and financial guidelines. Responsibilities include recruiting, hiring, and dismissal.

· Establish basic work functions and standards of performance for each member of the staff.

· Evaluate staff performance on an annual basis to assure satisfactory staff functions, and accomplishment of Chamber’s objectives.

Board:

· Serve as non-voting member of the Board of Directors & Executive Committee.

· Serve as chief advisor to the Board of Directors. Advice, guidance and assistance shall be provided to the Board and Officers in the selection of board members, officers, committee, chairs and committee members.

Committees:

· Assist committee chair in the orderly arrangement of meetings, including preparation of agendas and the dissemination of materials.

· Maintain contact with all committees and be aware of the current status of all Chamber projects in relation to the original objective, the current position, and the work to be done.

Member and Public Relations:

· Direct, prepare and disseminate all communications to the membership and the general public.

· Represent the Chamber at various meetings, functions and events.

Government Relations:

· Maintain strong relationships with local political officials and state government.

· Stay informed about current government issues affecting business and provide information to Board/membership as needed.

Economic Development:

· Work collaboratively with the city, state and other development groups (county, EIU, Lake Land College, Coles Together, Regional Planning Commission, Community Development Corporations, etc.) to bring business into the community and retain existing business.

· Be actively involved in downtown revitalization efforts.

Membership Maintenance & Retention:

· Oversee the direction of all membership efforts and develop retention plan.

· Coordinate new member development and oversee an orientation program.

· Direct proper membership record keeping procedures.

· Recommend necessary changes in the membership dues investment schedule.

· Develop and maintain relations with major employers/members.

· Develop new member benefits.

Communications:

· Responsible for managing the completion, updating and distribution of marketing materials including:

• Monthly Newsletter to Membership
• Membership Directory (annually)
• Chamber website (
• Social media outlets

Special Project Coordination

The Executive Director is responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating the Chamber’s key events and initiatives. These projects serve as major fundraisers, member engagement opportunities, and public-facing showcases of the Chamber’s impact.

Community Breakfasts

Purpose: Fundraiser and networking event

Responsibilities:

o Secure venue, catering, and guest speakers

o Promote event to members and the public

o Coordinate logistics and volunteer support

o Track attendance and fundraising outcomes

Golf Outing

Purpose: Fundraiser and member engagement

Responsibilities:

o Organize tournament format and registration

o Secure sponsorships and prizes

o Coordinate with golf course and vendors

o Manage day-of logistics and post-event follow-up

Business Expo

Purpose: Fundraiser and business showcase

Responsibilities:

o Recruit exhibitors and sponsors

o Oversee venue setup and promotional materials

o Facilitate public attendance and media coverage

o Evaluate exhibitor feedback and event success

Annual Dinner

Purpose: Celebration, awards, and networking

Responsibilities:

o Plan program agenda and keynote speakers

o Coordinate venue, catering, and entertainment

o Manage invitations, RSVPs, and seating

o Present annual report and recognize member achievements

Directory

Purpose: Member resource and promotional tool

Responsibilities:

o Oversee content updates and member listings

o Coordinate design, printing, and distribution

o Ensure accuracy and alignment with Chamber branding

o Promote directory as a business development tool

General Administrative:

· Conduct the official correspondence of the Chamber and maintain records for the same.

· Preserve all legal and historical documents relating to the Chamber’s activities, programs, property and positions.

· Meet all necessary legal and financial reporting requirements

· Approve and sign checks on all board approved budget expenditures.

· Direct office.

Evaluation

A performance/objective evaluation and commitment goals of the Executive Director shall be conducted annually by the Executive Committee of the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce.

Re. 10/2025