PRESIDENT & CEO

Job Summary

The company is a powerful advocate for business, working to create a thriving economy and a high quality of life for all San Diegans. With a diverse membership of businesses of all sizes, the organization plays a critical role in shaping the region’s future. This role is responsible for leading the organization’s strategic direction, advocating for business interests, and fostering economic growth within the region. The company is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as its next President & CEO. This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead one of the most influential business organizations in the nation.

High-Level Candidate Profile:

The ideal candidate shall be a dynamic and experienced leader with a proven track record of driving economic growth and community development, poised to lead the organization to new heights and make a significant impact on the San Diego region. This role will be dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment and enhancing the quality of life for the residents in the San Diego region, advancing the organization’s mission to make San Diego the best place to live and work. The CEO shall successfully lead initiatives to attract new businesses, create jobs, and improve infrastructure. The candidate must be a skilled communicator and advocate, effectively representing the interests of the business community before government officials, media, and the public.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

1. Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan aligned with the organization’s mission and vision.
2. Oversee all aspects of the organization’s operations, including finance, marketing, membership, and government affairs.
3. Identify emerging trends and opportunities to position the organization as a leading voice for business.
4. Understand and lead bi-national strategies, challenges, and opportunities the organization is engaged in or advancing strategies for.

Advocacy:

1. Represent the organization’s membership before government officials, regulatory agencies, media, and the public.
2. Advocate for policies that promote economic growth, job creation, and a business-friendly environment.
3. Monitor legislative and regulatory developments that impact the business community and mobilize members to take action.
4. Advocate for the needs of the San Diego business community related to bi-national economic development initiatives, plans, and strategies.

Thought Leadership and Public Speaking:

1. Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, delivering compelling narratives about regional economic development.
2. Develop and articulate thought leadership content through op-eds, speaking engagements, media interviews, and industry conferences.
3. Establish the organization as a respected thought leader by producing white papers, research reports, and policy briefs on critical business and economic issues.
4. Leverage public speaking platforms to shape regional economic discourse and policy discussions.

Membership Development:

1. Recruit and retain a diverse membership base, including small businesses, corporations, and nonprofit organizations.
2. Develop and implement innovative membership programs and services that deliver value to members.
3. Foster a strong sense of community among members through networking events, educational programs, and other initiatives.

Financial Management:

1. Oversee the organization’s financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and fundraising.
2. Ensure the financial sustainability of the organization.
3. Develop and implement strategies to increase revenue and reduce expenses.

Community Engagement:

1. Collaborate with community partners, elected officials, government agencies, and other stakeholders to address regional challenges and opportunities.
2. Promote the region’s quality of life and attract new businesses and talent.
3. Support initiatives that enhance the region’s competitiveness and sustainability.
4. Serve as lead spokesperson for the organization at community, governmental and civic events as necessary and/or appropriate.

Crisis Management:

1. Ability to effectively respond to challenges and opportunities.

Team Leadership:

1. Lead and inspire a talented team of professionals.
2. Recruit, hire, and develop high-performing staff.
3. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

Qualifications:

1. Advanced degree in business, economics, public policy, or a related field preferred.
2. Minimum of 5 years of experience in leadership roles, preferably in a commerce or economic development organization.
3. Proven track record of success in achieving strategic goals and driving results.
4. Strong understanding of business, economic development principles, public policy, and government affairs.
5. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
6. Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
7. Strong financial acumen and analytical skills.
8. Passion for community engagement and economic development.
9. Knowledge and understanding of the cross-border Cali-Baja region.
10. Demonstrated ability to engage audiences through public speaking and media interactions.

Additional Considerations:

1. Experience in public and private sectors is ideal.
2. Knowledge of local, state, and federal government.
3. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
4. Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.