About This Role
The CEO serves as the chief executive officer of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce and is accountable
for the organization’s strategic direction, operational performance, and regional economic impact.
Reporting to the Board of Directors, this role provides leadership and stewardship of the Chamber’s mission,
ensuring alignment of resources, partnerships, and initiatives to strengthen the business environment and
enhance the quality of life in Valdosta-Lowndes County.
The CEO operates with broad authority to lead the organization, implement Board policy, and position the
Chamber as a central driver of economic growth and community advancement.
What You’ll Do
The CEO is empowered to lead the organization within the policies established by the Board of Directors, including authority over personnel, operations, and contractual matters, consistent with the Chamber’s bylaws and applicable regulations.
Strategic Leadership & Direction
- Establish and execute a clear strategic vision aligned with Board priorities and regional needs
- Anticipate economic, workforce, and business trends and position the Chamber to respond proactively
- Ensure all initiatives, programs, and investments align with measurable outcomes and long-term impact
Organizational Leadership & Performance
- Lead, develop, and empower a high-performing team aligned with mission and results
- Ensure effective execution across all functions while maintaining organizational agility and accountability
- Foster a culture of collaboration, performance, and continuous improvement
Economic & Community Impact
- Serve as a catalyst for economic growth, workforce development, and business expansion
- Align Chamber efforts with key partners across business, education, and government to strengthen the regional ecosystem
- Advance initiatives that improve the long-term competitiveness and vitality of the community
Stakeholder Leadership & Influence
- Build and maintain trusted relationships with business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders
- Convene and align diverse interests around shared priorities and regional initiatives
- Serve as the principal representative and unifying voice for the business community
Financial Stewardship & Resource Development
- Ensure the financial health, sustainability, and growth of the organization
- Align financial strategy with mission, including revenue development, investment, and resource allocation
- Maintain transparency and accountability in financial reporting and decision-making
Governance & Board Partnership
- Serve as the primary advisor to the Board of Directors, providing insight, strategy, and performance reporting
- Implement Board policies and strategic direction with operational autonomy
- Maintain strong alignment, trust, and communication between the Board and organization
Affiliate Oversight & Management
- Ensure strategic alignment, effective resourcing, and executive oversight of affiliated Chamber organizations, including: Barber Trust and WEST (The Education Council) Foundation
Requirements
- Five (5) years or more of proven experience as an executive leading a successful trade industry organization or executive experience equivalent
- Proven ability to lead organizations through growth, change, and measurable community impact
- Strategic thinker with strong execution discipline and sound business judgment
- Effective communicator and public representative with the ability to influence across sectors
- Skilled relationship builder capable of aligning diverse stakeholders toward common goals
- Financial and operational acumen with a focus on sustainability and long-term value creation
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred in business, public administration, economic development, marketing, or related field—or equivalent executive experience
- Demonstrated executive leadership experience with accountability for strategy, operations, and organizational performance
- Experience leading or working closely with a Board of Directors and diverse stakeholder groups
Nice to Have
- Institute of Organization Management (IOM) or equivalent professional development preferred
- Certified Georgia Chamber of Commerce Executive (or ability to obtain) preferred
Benefits
acquire4hire.com/jobs/17/183915