Executive Director

About Us:

The Antigonish Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) is committed to supporting and connecting the vibrant business community of the Town and County of Antigonish. Representing a diverse range of businesses from not-for-profits and corporate entities to small family-owned businesses, we advocate for local economic growth and provide essential networking, education, and advocacy opportunities. Our mission is to strengthen the local business climate by fostering a collaborative environment that celebrates innovation, leadership, and sustainability.

Role Overview:

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Antigonish Chamber of Commerce (ACOC). As the primary representative of the Chamber, the Executive Director will engage with business owners, community leaders, and stakeholders, advocating for their needs and ensuring that ACOC's programs, services, and initiatives align with the evolving landscape of local commerce. This position requires a proactive leader who can multitask effectively, manage competing priorities, and inspire others to advance the Chamber's mission. The Executive Director will also oversee part-time staff, including a bookkeeper and a summer student, to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee key Chamber events such as the Gala Dinner, Golf Tournament, Street Fair, Casino Night, and Awards Gala, ensuring each is delivered with excellence and value for the membership.
• Develop and execute smaller events, including Lunch & Learns, Webinars, Coffee Chats, and networking mixers that engage members, enhance learning, and foster a sense of community.
• Lead sponsorship recruitment efforts to support Chamber events.
• Oversee the Chamber's marketing strategy, including digital, print, and social media communications, ensuring a consistent, professional image that promotes Chamber programs and services.
• Attend monthly Board meetings and prepare monthly and annual reports.
• Maintain an organized office environment, managing the Chamber's database, filing systems, and communication channels (email, phone, social media).
• Lead efforts to attract new members and retain existing ones, ensuring that all members receive exceptional service, support, and access to valuable opportunities.
• Build and maintain relationships with local government, non-profits, and organizations and form partnerships for events and initiatives.
• Identify and apply for grants and funding opportunities to support Chamber initiatives and activities.
• Supervise part-time employees, including a bookkeeper and a summer student, ensuring that their work aligns with the organization's goals and operational needs.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in Business Administration or related fields, or equivalent professional experience in leadership and organizational management.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic plans that drive organizational growth.
• Experience in managing budgets and delivering programs within financial constraints.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including business owners, government officials, and community leaders.
• Experience in supervising staff and managing part-time or seasonal employees.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and time-management skills with a high degree of professionalism.
• Familiarity with digital tools such as Canva, MailChimp, and/or Sage online accounting system is an asset.
• Experience with Chamber of Commerce or non-profit organizations is an asset.

Personal Characteristics:

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate staff, volunteers, and members.
• Self-motivated and results-driven, with the ability to work independently while managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Passion for community development and the success of local businesses.
• Flexible, adaptable, and comfortable in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $46,592.00-$53,248.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Flexible schedule
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision care

Work Location: In person