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.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the organization in a manner that supports and guides the organizational mission as defined by the Board of Directors.
• Act as IECA’s primary motivational team leader, inspiring the staff, Board, volunteers, and partners.
• Identify, plan, and make meaningful and impactful organizational strategic plan suggestions for programmatic expansion to the Board of Directors.
• Focus on budget management and cost efficiency to ensure financial sustainability and fundraising knowledge, while maintaining member benefits.
• Work as a true partner with the Board of Directors to leverage the experience, knowledge, abilities, and connections of the group to guide the organization to wise and thoughtful strategic decision-making on behalf of the organization.
• Strike a balance between hands-on support and strategic planning to meet the needs of the organization at both operational and strategic levels.
• Establish clear communication channels to enhance connectedness and collegiality among staff, while also emphasizing the importance of feeling heard and fostering long-term staff retention.
• Cultivate relational skills and comfort with member interactions to enhance member satisfaction and retention.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, demonstrating a commitment to creating an inclusive organizational culture.
• Lead outreach and community relations efforts in a concerted effort to promote the organization’s mission, and programs consistently and positively.
• Serve as both IECA’s representative and partner to elected officials and outside agencies.
• Promote public and legislative awareness and advocacy of IECA’s new programs while identifying and leveraging new potential opportunities.
• Utilize problem-solving skills to address challenges and navigate complexities inherent in PR, media, and government relations.

REQUIREMENTS:

• A true passion for the mission of IECA as well as a practical understanding of nonprofit association operations.
• Five to ten years of experience as a visionary, resourceful, and transparent senior leader in the education industry, with a strong preference for experience in the association sector.
• An empathetic, supportive, ethical, and education-focused mindset combined with exceptional business acumen, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Prior successful experience working directly with, or reporting to, a Board of Directors.
• History with the successful management of a dynamic, multi-program organization, and a strong understanding of what it takes to maximize program effectiveness, maintain deliverable quality, and optimize resources.
• Proven ability to make sound and educated business decisions, highlighting strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• A strong public speaking and stage presence to effectively represent the organization and engage with external stakeholders.
• Ability to work with a changing volunteer base and staff, fostering collaboration and cohesion within the organization.
• 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.
• Experience utilizing technology to improve organizational processes.
• Four-year degree with a Master's degree preferred but not required.

About Independent Educational Consultants Association

Established in 1976, Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) is a globally recognized nonprofit professional association representing seasoned independent educational consultants. Headquartered in the Washington, DC area, IECA oversees several initiatives, including professional training institutes, workshops, conferences, and webinars. Moreover, IECA is dedicated to maintaining high standards and ethical practices in educational consulting and curates a directory of independent educational consultants who provide invaluable guidance to students and families navigating school selection dilemmas. IECA stands at the forefront of advocacy for those entering their educational journeys and is committed to upholding and promoting these values through leadership and fostering a collaborative culture that supports both professional and organizational growth.

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