General Manager

The Barrie Chamber of Commerce ) is a membership based, volunteer driven, not-for-profit organization with a vision to serve as 'the voice' of Barrie business, dedicated to increased community prosperity and pride. The Barrie Chamber has been serving the local business community for more than 75 years. The organization recently embarked on an ambitious path to reposition itself and reconnect in new ways with members, strategic partners and the broader Barrie community. In doing so, the newly re-branded Barrie Chamber of Commerce will be acknowledged as The Gateway to local business success. In addition to several signature events, BCC runs numerous specialty programs and networking events for business professionals. The BCC is dedicated to promoting and advancing the interests of local enterprise, both large firms and SMEs. The Barrie Chamber provides educational seminars and member-to-member programs, as well as advocating on behalf of the business community on various issues. 

RePositioned, ReConnected, ReBranded. Your role will be to spearhead these initiatives This is a great opportunity to take the lead on growing the Barrie Chamber in partnership with a committed, energized and focused Board of Directors.

Reporting to the Board, the General Manager will provide leadership and direction to achieving the Chamber's mission and objectives. Acting as a liaison among members, the Board, staff, volunteers, government and partners, the GM is responsible for overseeing the delivery of all programs and services, membership growth and retention, finances, daily operations, community and public relations and advocacy.

In this highly visible role, you will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Chamber. You will provide much needed leadership and stability. You will drive membership recruitment and retention, and develop innovative ways to add value. You will plan and execute numerous events, forge collaborative partnerships and sponsorships, and work to enhance the Chamber's reputation and value within the business community. You are responsible for developing and nurturing relationships with staff, volunteers, members, community partners and stakeholders, Board of Directors, government officials and the provincial and national Chambers of Commerce.

Responsibilities:

• Establish objectives in accordance with the values and goals as outlined in the Strategic Plan and formulate activities in support of these objectives.

• Advise, support and solicit direction from the Board of Directors through regular communications and meetings

• Work with the Board of Directors to develop and implement the Chamber of Commerce short term and long term objectives, to establish committees and to make decisions on resource allocation. Monitor and report progress of objectives on a regular basis.

• Develop and manage budget in consultation with the Board of Directors. 

• Plan, organize and oversee daily operations of the Chamber to ensure efficiency and to maximize revenues. 

• Manage, train and develop chamber staff members, contractors and volunteers to ensure objectives are met in a timely manner.

• Maintain and report accurate accounts of the finances; manage monthly cash flow and budget statements

• Monitor and review all policies and procedures to ensure operational requirements are being met

• Lead office administration and operational activities including strategic planning, financial management, staffing (hiring, training, mentoring, performance management), sales and membership development, membership relations, volunteers, programs and events, policy and procedures, Board governance and public affairs 

• Ensure compliance of accepted business practices, contracts, government regulations, employment standards and bylaws

• Build trust within the community, develop relationships with membership and keep members informed through regular communications, news bulletins, meetings and networking activities. 

• Develop and coordinate Chamber programs, services and activities designed to inform, educate and assist members in reaching their full business potential

• Maximize and enhance the membership experience through innovative business products, programs and service offerings 

• Plan and execute events, forge collaborative partnerships and sponsorships and advocate support to advance brand value and enhance the Chambers' reputation and business value.

• Solicit feedback and respond to inquiries and concerns in a timely manner

• Provide timely responses to critical local and provincial issues

• Represent the Chamber in terms of media and public relations 

• Represent members, stakeholders and the business community at conferences and government meetings 

• University degree in Business Administration, Communications, Marketing, Economic Development or related field 

• Minimum 5 years management experience in a related field

• Experience with other business associations, economic development offices or not-for-‐profit associations is an asset 

• Excellent leadership skills and excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Strong public speaking, interpersonal and negotiation skills

• Skilled problem solver and sound decision-maker

• Strong people management skills

• Highly organized with ability to prioritize in the midst of conflicting urgent requests  

• Goal oriented with a proven track record of achieving results

• Must be a highly motivated self-starter who works well under limited supervision

• Proficiency in major office computer applications

• Able to attend meetings and events on evenings and weekends as required

To sum up, we are looking for a seasoned General Manager with a passion to reinvigorate and grow the Barrie Chamber of Commerce. If you love the challenge of a building a membership driven organization, if you excel at working and collaborating with a variety of community stakeholders, if you thrive on high expectations and being the face of an organization, this job is for you 

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.