Executive Director

Executive Director - Ferndale Chamber of Commerce
Location: Ferndale, WA
Status: Full Time / Exempt

The Ferndale Chamber of Commerce is seeking a strategic, community-driven Executive Director to lead the organization into its next phase of growth. This role offers a unique opportunity to build on a newly   developed five-year strategic plan with strong alignment between board and staff.

About the Chamber:
The Ferndale Chamber of Commerce represents a vibrant community of over 200 local businesses and organizations. Our mission is to connect, support, and champion the Ferndale business community through events, programming, and advocacy. As a cornerstone organization in Whatcom County, we are committed to building partnerships, fostering local economic vitality, and serving as a trusted resource to our members and beyond. 

Position Summary:
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive of the Chamber and is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, guiding strategic implementation, growing membership and sponsorships, and serving as a visible leader in the Ferndale business community. The Executive Director will work in close partnership with the Chamber's board of directors and manage at least one additional part-time staff member.

Primary Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

Leadership & Strategy

• Partner with the Board to implement the Chamber’s five-year strategic plan
• Provide Leadership in building partnerships, programs, and visibility in the community
• Represent the Chamber with local and regional stakeholders

Membership & Sponsorship Growth

• Build and maintain relationships with members and sponsors, ensuring that current members have opportunities for engagement, are communicated with regularly, and receive value for their membership dues
• Build and implement an outreach strategy design to convert prospective and former members into dues-paying member
• Develop and promote sponsorship opportunities for Chamber programs, events, and initiatives 

Event Planning & Programming

• Plan, promote and coordinate monthly networking events and annual signature events
• Evaluates success of events after completion to find areas of improvement
• Innovate and grow programs that serve members, including a revived happy hour series

Operations & Finance

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Chamber and Visitor Center, including staff supervision and office administration
• Oversee budgeting and financial planning in coordination with the Treasurer and Board
• Seek new revenue sources and help diversify funding streams
• Maintain accurate records and manage the Chamber CRM database

Communications & Public Relations

• Provide strategic oversight of the Chamber’s brand, messaging and public presence, ensuring consistency in all communications
• Serve as the Chamber’s spokesperson when appropriate, and maintain relationships with media and community partners

Year One Areas of Focus:
In your first year, you’ll work closely with the board to: 

• Reconnect with past members and strengthen member engagement
• Rebuild and maintain consistent programming and networking opportunities 
• Diversify revenue through new partnerships and funding sources
• Improve organizational systems and documentation
• Establish strong internal and external communication practices 
• Support community facing events that position the chamber as a local business leader

Qualifications: 

• Proven leadership and team management experience - experience working with a board is a plus!
• Strong relationship building, communication and public speaking skills
• Experience with budgeting, sponsorship and/or nonprofit revenue generation
• Familiarity with and a strong interest in the Ferndale/Whatcom County business landscape
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks effectively and efficiently to meet tight deadlines
• Proficiency in CRM or membership management systems (Chamber Master Preferred)
• Fluency or willingness to learn computer business software programs such as Google Docs, Microsoft Office Suite, Quickbooks, MailChimp, WordPress, Canva, and social media platforms
• Ability to manage a budget, analyze organizational performance and project financial 
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to work flexible hours including some nights and weekends as needed

Compensation & Benefits: 
Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000 a year depending on experience

• Based on a 40 hour work week, hours may vary from week to week and may include some nights and weekends. 
• This position is bonus eligible at the discretion of the Board of Directors 

Full benefits will be discussed at time of hiring may include paid time off, sick leave, health, dental and cell phone reimbursement

To Apply:
Please send cover letter, resume, and at least 3 references to board@ferndale-chamber.com