Chief Executive Officer

Position Overview:

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Battle Creek Area Association of REALTORS® serves as the strategic and operational leader of the association. Reporting to the board of directors, the CEO is responsible for managing the overall operations of the association, executing the strategic vision, and ensuring high levels of service to 300+ members. This position requires a dynamic and visionary leader who can effectively manage staff, advocate for the real estate industry, and represent the association locally, statewide, and nationally.

Candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to staff@bcaar.com. The position will remain open until filled.

Specific Responsibilities:

1. Establishes, implements, and maintains administrative policies and procedures for central office functions to ensure efficient operations, organizational consistency, and compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and Association policies.
2. Establishes the organizational structure for the Association office and the related staffing structure to effectively meet the needs and objectives of the Association.
3. Recruits, hires, trains, promotes, and terminates staff and administers an effective personnel program which includes position descriptions, performance standards, performance appraisals, professional development, and compensation systems. Fosters a positive, productive, and accountable work environment.
4. Oversees the maintenance, operation, and management of the Association's office building, including Association-occupied space and tenant-occupied space. Responsible for the care, security, and upkeep of all property, facilities, and equipment. Manages relationships with building tenants, including lease agreements, tenant communications, rent collection, and tenant needs.
5. Assists, serves, and cooperates with the Association President and other officers and directors. Provides professional guidance and support to the Board of Directors while maintaining appropriate governance and management responsibilities. Proactively recruits and develops new volunteer leadership. Provides annual training in effective Board/Committee/Staff relationships and supports leadership succession planning.
6. Works with the President and Board of Directors to facilitate the establishment of long-term goals and short-term objectives for the Association. Leads the development and implementation of the Association's strategic plan and annual objectives. Establishes measurable performance indicators, monitors progress, identifies opportunities and challenges, and provides regular reports to the Board of Directors regarding organizational performance and progress toward established goals.
7. Coordinates agendas, meeting materials, and minutes for Board of Directors, Committees and general membership meetings. Serves as staff liaison to Association committees, providing guidance and support to committee chairs and members. Monitors committee activities, maintains records, and ensures alignment with the Association's goals and objectives.
8. Works with the President and Board of Directors to identify, recruit, develop, and retain qualified volunteer leaders. Supports leadership succession planning, committee development, volunteer engagement, and training to ensure effective governance and continued organizational leadership.
9. Develops and supervises an effective program of membership development, recruitment, retention, engagement, and membership services within the limits of the facility and staff. Develops and maintains strong working relationships with each member broker, REALTOR® and affiliate. Evaluates member needs, satisfaction, participation, and engagement to ensure programs, services, education, and benefits provide meaningful value to members.
10. Manages and oversees the financial operations of the Association, including preparation of the annual budget, monthly financial statements, financial forecasting, and monitoring the organization's financial health. Works closely with the Association Treasurer to ensure appropriate financial oversight, internal controls, and adherence to the approved budget. Oversees accounts payable and receivable, check processing, deposits, financial recordkeeping, and accounting procedures. Works with the CPA on annual tax filings and year-end financial reporting. Pursues non-dues revenue opportunities, including sponsorships, partnerships, grants, programs, and services, and develops strategies to support long-term financial sustainability and maintain appropriate operating reserves.
11. Develops and conducts orientation and education programs in cooperation with the Professional Development Committee to advance the proficiency, professionalism, and profitability of the membership. Promotes continuing education, leadership development, industry knowledge, and awareness of emerging real estate trends and issues. Ensures appropriate REALTOR® orientation and new member onboarding programs are maintained.
12. Develops and maintains an effective communication program that is responsive to the needs of the membership. Oversees Association publications, newsletters, website content, social media, and other communication platforms. Ensures timely and consistent communication regarding Association activities, industry developments, legislative issues, member benefits, educational opportunities, and organizational initiatives.
13. Represents the Association within the local community and maintains strong working relationships with local government officials, civic organizations, businesses, other local associations, Michigan REALTORS®, and the National Association of REALTORS®. Serves as spokesperson in conjunction with the Association President. Participates in community initiatives and state and national association activities within the limits of the Association's budget. Promotes homeownership, private property rights, and the REALTOR® profession while maintaining awareness of industry developments and issues affecting the membership. Becomes a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, but waives the right to use the REALTOR® title and requirements for dues.
14. Provides oversight of the Association's MLS services and technology platforms, including electronic lockboxes, MLS systems, and other third-party software. Maintains relationships with technology vendors and service providers, and evaluates technology solutions that enhance the efficiency, security, and effectiveness of the Association and its members. Ensures appropriate policies, procedures, and safeguards are in place to protect Association and member information. Monitors MLS policies, participant needs, and operational issues and works with appropriate committees and service providers to address them.
15. Oversees the Association's government affairs and advocacy activities. Maintains relationships with local government officials, elected representatives, and community organizations on matters affecting the real estate industry, private property rights, housing, and homeownership. Coordinates with Michigan REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS® on legislative and advocacy initiatives. Supports REALTOR® Political Action Committee (RPAC) activities and encourages member engagement in advocacy efforts.
16. Carries out such other duties and responsibilities as directed by the President and Board of Directors.

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, communications, or a related field is preferred; comparable professional experience may be considered.

· Minimum 5 years of experience in executive leadership, preferably in an association or nonprofit environment.

· Demonstrated leadership, strategic planning, organizational management, and staff supervision skills.

· Experience working with a Board of Directors, committees, and volunteer leadership.

· Strong financial acumen and experience with budgeting and financial reporting.

· Excellent written and verbal communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.

· Knowledge of the real estate industry and REALTOR® association structure is preferred, but not required.

· Working knowledge of accounting software, Microsoft Office, digital communication tools, and technology systems.

· Ability to travel locally, statewide, and nationally as needed, including approximately six overnight conferences or events annually.

Candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to staff@bcaar.com. The position will remain open until filled.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person