Position and Community Profile Indian River County Chamber of Commerce
1216 21st Street P.O. Box 2947 Vero Beach, Fl 32961
Organizational Background Founded: In the early 1900’s Board of Directors: 18 elected to serve 3 year terms. The Provost of the local college serves as a voting director. The Chairman may appoint up to 3 Directors at Large, up to 2 former Chairmen of the Board, a General Counsel, and a representative to chair each tourism and economic development functions. Those appointments require Board approval and serve for 1 year. The President/CEO serves as a non-voting member of the Board and as Board and Corporate Secretary. Budgets: Oversee $1 million combined Chamber, Tourism, Economic Development budgets. Funds are not comingled. For transparency reasons, there are separate budgets and bank accounts for each. Economic Development and Tourism submit annual operating plans to Indian River County via the County Economic Development Council and the County Tourism Council. The Chamber’s Board of Directors and the Indian River County Board of Commissioners votes on and approves each of those budgets. As required by Indian River County, the economic development and tourism have separate annual audits.
Membership: Over 800 members Staff: 6 full, 4 part-time Facility: Free standing, new offices. Debt free.
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Significant Programs & Services: • Established and Young Professional Networks • Community Leaders Summits • Economic Leadership Alliance • Economic Development and Tourism Divisions • Industry Appreciation Awards • Annual Meeting • Annual Golf Classic • Tourism Luncheon • Leadership Indian River County Program • Government Issues & Policies • State of the County • Weekly Newsletter, Annual Who’s Who in Indian River County Business • Networking Events, Leads Groups, Chamber Ambassadors
MISSION STATEMENT
The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is a county business organization working to represent its membership and provide leadership for positive economic growth and change.
VISION
To enhance and preserve the economic well being and quality of life of all citizens in Indian River County through the execution of our mission.
STAFF MISSION STATEMENT
Together, our Chamber of Commerce staff enthusiastically strives to make a difference in the business community. We accomplish this through awareness of member and community needs, effective business solutions, positive attitude and leadership.
STATEMENT OF DIVERSITY
The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce seeks a diverse and inclusive membership and staff. The Chamber shall take all necessary steps to encourage the full participation, both in principle and practice, of all members of the Indian River County business community, regardless of race, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability. As an organization, our future and success rest in our ability to embrace and encourage diversity through our membership, leadership, and staff.
VALUES
• We value positive economic growth, defined as the planned and responsible development of new and existing commerce. • We value higher wage jobs and will strive to better the education and opportunity for our growing workforce population to the benefit of all citizens of Indian River County. • We value our environment and will support efforts to protect and enhance our natural resources to the benefit of all citizens who live here and for those tourists and business clients who visit our community and spend their money in our county each year. • We value the importance of effective and affordable education so as to enhance the quality and potential of our workforce. • We value an environment that supports the rights of businesses and professionals to earn a reasonable profit and believe that the derived commerce enriches our economy and community. • We value the cultural activities and institutions in our community and believe they enrich the quality of life for all of our citizens. • We value a strong commitment to volunteerism in order to positively impact the lives of those who are challenged, and to perpetuate organizations whose existence is contingent on a strong volunteer effort.
About Indian River County Situated on Florida’s east coast, Indian River County has a friendly, unprententious atmosphere. Centrally located 70 miles south of the Kennedy Space Center and 135 miles north of Miami, our 543 square miles contain beautiful beaches and a dynamic business community. Approximately 149,790 people reside in Indian River County, enjoying a climate moderated by the warm tropical waters of the Gulf Stream. Balmy winters combine with the summer’s fresh ocean breezes keep the average temperature at 74 degrees, allowing residents to swim, golf and play tennis all year long. The 26 miles of unspoiled beaches and serene waterscapes of the Sebastian and Indian Rivers offer the ideal setting for outdoor living life to its fullest. While agriculture and tourism play an important role in our economy, there are an increasing number of firms in the health care and information technology industries along with light manufacturing and service sector jobs. Relatively low labor costs, inexpensive
building sites, and the absence of state imcome tax, continue to attract industry. Quality education is an essential factor in measuring a community’s commitment. The Indian River County public school system gets high marks for utilizing innovative curriculums along with tradtional teaching methods and exciting multimedia capabilities to challenge and stimulate students’ imaginations. Indian River State College (IRSC) serves as the region’s premier higher education institution. Students choose from over 160 programs, including Quick Job Training, Associate Degree programs and 20 Bachelor’s Degree programs. The Mueller Campus in Vero Beach and the Sebastian Center offer hundreds of courses, one-stop student services, and online instruction.
Our Commmunity
Indian River County was established in 1925 and today is comprised of five incorporated municipalities, each governed by five elected members representing each of the county’s five districts. Vero Beach is the county seat with a population of 16,539 people and a council-manager form of government. Incorporated in 1910, Vero Beach was a rail stop along the Florida East Coast Railroad. Since those early days, the city has become the center for Indian River County’s flourishing economic and cultural growth. Picturesque residential communities, planned open space for community outings, along with unspoiled beaches and breathtaking landscapes, have contributed to the popularity of Vero Beach as a destination and a place to call home. Sebastian, north of Vero Beach, is the largest municipality with a population of 24,256. Residents here enjoy a warm, friendly hometown atmosphere. Starting off as a fishing village, Sebastian is now focused on a growing tourist industry where visitors and residents enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, surfing, and many other water-oriented acitivites. Sebastian is the home of Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge. The refuge holds a unique place in American history, because on March 14, 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt designated it as the Nation’s first
National Wildlife Refuge to protect brown pelicans and other native birds nesting on the island. This was the first time the federal government set aside land for the sake of wildlife. Sebastian is run by a councilmanager form of government. Fellsmere, the most rural incorporated town in Indian River County, is located in the northwestern part of the county with a population of 5,550. Sugar had been the primary industry for this agricultrual community, but in recent years the emphasis has shifted to citrus and cattle. Fellsmere is proud to be host of the famous Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival, held in January. Fellsmere Day is held in April with a parade and a variety of family-orientated activities. Inidan River Shores and Orchid are residential communities, both incorporated and both with a council-manager form of government. Indian River Shores is home to approximately 4,200 year-round residents, with that figure doubling during the winter months. Orchid is a golf and beach community on the barrier island north of Vero Beach. Their residents enjoy pristine beaches, spectacular ocean vistas and golf courses around the luxury home sites.
Living in Indian River County Many new and existing single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums are available. For those seeking the finest in luxury, there are spacious villas and palatial estates. Many communities look out over golf course fairways, expansive woodlands and meadows, or have breathtaking ocean or river views. Long-standing city residences offer a hometown atmosphere perfect for tropical evening strolls. Typically, one can expect a 20-minute commute or less to work, shopping, cultural or recreational activities. Professional fire, police and emergency medical teams, are strategically located throughout Indian River County to provide a rapid response system should you need them. Our Emergency Operations Center is state-of-the-art. The county library system is the envy of many larger regions. The system provides extensive volumes for research and enjoyment and incorporates the latest in technical equipment. A wide range of exciting recreational opportunities awaiting you in Indian River County. There are challenging golf courses for every level of play and convenient to every community. Tennis and pickleball courts, hiking and biking trails, riverside camping and
seaside picnic facilities are available for year-round enjoyment. Our county cares for and takes pride in the local environment with hands-on experiences and fascinating natural hammocks. Cultural experiences include performances at the accredited professional Riverside Theatre, Riverside Children’s Theatre, and the Vero Beach Theatre Guild. Enjoy engaging walking tours of McKee Botanical Garden and the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area. National and international exhibitions and classes are opportunities at the accredited Vero Beach Museum of Art. The Indian River Citrus Museum, in the Heritage Center, tells the story and preserves the artifacts, photographs and memorabilia of area citrus pioneers. Visit the Indian River Historical Society in Vero Beach to learn about the many historical sites throughout the county that can make for a very rewarding outing. At the end of the day, there are countless restaurants from which to choose that suit any taste, and for the young-at-heart there are entertaining night spots to cap off the evening.
Summary and Responsibilities POSITION: President/CEO REPORTS TO: Board of Directors SUPERVISES: All Chamber Staff Including Economic Development and Tourism Directors HOURS: Full-time, in-house; off-site as needed. Summary The President/CEO serves as the chief operating officer of the Chamber organization and is responsible for its day to day management. He/She maintains internal planning, organization and appropriate delegation to ensure for the successful delivery of programs, events and Chamber services to the business community. As the designated county agency for both economic development and tourism marketing, Chamber staff works with businesses and local leaders to support the county’s economic development and tourist attraction. The President/CEO oversees and maintains positive working relationships with all elected officials in order to successfully carry out the goals of the organization. He/she is responsible for the implementation of the annual plan, budget development and its oversight, adequate staffing and their management, community outreach, motivation of volunteers, the oversight of all programs and services and membership development. He/she is responsible for the interpretation of policy, and overseeing the maintenance of the Chamber’s headquarters. The President/CEO is involved in the community, responsible for Leadership Indian River County, and ongoing collaborative relationships within the community and the region that foster a nurturing business environment. Essential Duties • Identify, implement and effectively communicate programs/initiatives to build/retain a solid Chamber membership base and to assure that programs and services remain relevant to member needs • Obtain Board participation, plan Board meetings; assist in the development and execution of policies • Hire and manage adequate staff through employee development, leadership and support. • Develop and manage an annual operating budget and assure sound and efficient financial management • Continuously evaluate the organizational structure, programs and services to optimize their effectiveness and ensure positive results • Meet with, respond to and engage top political and elected officials on a local, state and national level. • Able and comfortable managing the Chamber’s business advocacy activities working with leaders of the public and private sectors with a focus of implementing the goals and objectives of the Chamber • Communicate the benefits of Indian River County in support of workforce development initiatives to retain existing businesses and attract new business • Serve as the principal spokesperson to provide a positive image of the Chamber • Review and critically evaluate program proposals or issues that may have impact on the Chamber
Committee/Program Responsibilities Oversee staffing. May be directly responsible for agendas, minutes or duties specifically related to the following: • • • • • • • • • •
Board of Directors Executive Committee Finance Committee Nominating Committees Government Issues Committee; Policy Paper Established Professionals Network Community Leaders Summits Economic Leadership Alliance Economic Development and Tourism Divisions Leadership Indian River County program and Leadership Foundation Board • And others as needed The above cited duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by the President and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities expected of that employee.
Qualifications Required Experience • Four-year college degree • Completion of U.S. Chamber Institute for Organization Management (IOM) or equivalent training • 5 years of previous documented progressively responsible experience in Chamber or association management • Excellent oral and written communication skills, computer and social media skills, organizational skills, and sound financial management practices and accountability. • Experience interfacing with government officials preferred
Skills • Maintain a demeanor and appearance which reflects a professional approach in executing responsibilities • Strong written and oral communications skills and comfortable speaking before large groups of people • A forward thinker and strategic executive who is capable of collaborating with and building consensus among a diverse group of members, government and community • Provides staff the tools, guidance and resources to develop creative programs, benefits and activities for the membership • Has a sense of urgency, is enthusiastic, self-motivated, diplomatic, credible and a multi-tasker
Employee Benefits Summary The Chamber offers a locally competitive salary and benefits but we are flexible for the candidate who meets our needs. Salary Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Insurance Health, Dental, Life and Disability: Insurance policies are provided. AFLAC: Group AFLAC plans are available to all employees paid through employee payroll deductions. A flexible spending account, Section 125 Cafeteria Plan, is also available for Chamber employees. The plan allows an employee to redirect a pre-taxable portion of their salary to an account to be used for dependent care and/or unreimbursed medical expenses. Paid Holidays Designated holidays falling on a weekend will be observed as determined by local custom. The Chamber recognizes the following paid holidays: Memorial Day Thanksgiving Day & Day After Thanksgiving Independence Day Dec. 25 through January 1 Labor Day Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Vacation 2 weeks vacation following a 90 day probationary period.
How to Apply Indian River County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Search Committee
[email protected]
Deadline to Submit Resume: November 30, 2017
*Please submit both your resume and salary requirements
Other Pertinent Information It is the intent of the President/CEO Search Committee to complete a successful search for candidates. The committee reassures all candidates who submit their resumes that all personal information will be held in strict confidence and will not be discussed outside the Search Committee. Candidates selected for further review will be contacted to confirm their continued interest in this position. It is the intention of the Search Committee to complete reference and background checks on final candidates. If you are selected you will be asked to provide additional reference information and permission for a background check to be completed. No offers will be extended until that process has been finalized. We have requested that our retiring President/CEO not discuss the position with any candidates as this will be the role of the Search Committee. The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is proud of and committed to being an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.
