Chief Executive Officer

POSITION SUMMARY: This is an exceptional opportunity to lead Virginia's premier business advocacy organization and shape the economic future of the Commonwealth. This individual will inspire, unite, and mobilize the business community while working collaboratively with the Board of Directors, staff, members, government officials, and stakeholders across Virginia. The successful candidate will be a proven executive with exceptional leadership abilities, strong business acumen, and a demonstrated commitment to bipartisan engagement and coalition building. This role requires an individual who can effectively navigate complex political, business, and economic landscapes while maintaining the organization's position and influence as the Voice of Business in Virginia. The President & CEO must be a compelling communicator, skilled relationship builder, and results-oriented leader who can drive organizational growth and impact. The position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Virginia Chamber's operations, including strategic planning, staff leadership, board relations, public policy development and advocacy, membership growth and engagement, financial management, event management, communications, and partnerships. The President & CEO will work to grow the Chamber's influence, expand its financial position, and ensure the organization remains at the forefront of business advocacy in Virginia. Core Functions:
Provides visionary, strategic leadership for the organization while maintaining a culture of collaboration, accountability, excellence, and innovation that attracts and retains top talent and engaged members.
Serve as the primary advocate and spokesperson for Virginia's business community, leading efforts to influence public policy at the state and federal levels on issues critical to economic growth and business success.
Develop and execute comprehensive strategic plans that advance the organization's mission, expand its influence, grow membership, and ensure long-term financial sustainability.
Build and maintain strong relationships with Board members, elected officials, business leaders, economic development organizations, local and regional chambers, industry associations, and other key stakeholders across Virginia.
Oversee all operational, financial, programmatic, and administrative functions of the organization to ensure efficient, effective, and mission-driven operations.
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of professionals who deliver exceptional value to members and execute the Chamber's strategic priorities.
Drive membership growth, retention, and engagement by ensuring the Chamber delivers programs, services, advocacy, and opportunities that meet members' evolving needs.
Ensure the organization's financial health through prudent fiscal management, diverse revenue generation, and strategic resource allocation.
Champion transparency, integrity, and ethical leadership in all aspects of the organization's work. Regular travel throughout the Commonwealth (estimated at 25%) will be required to support the needs of the organization and its members. KEY REQUIREMENTS: The successful candidate will be a highly respected and accomplished executive with a minimum of 15 years of work experience and demonstrated success leading complex organizations. Prior experience as a CEO, Executive Director, President, or senior executive in a chamber of commerce, business association, government agency, advocacy organization, or corporate environment is strongly preferred. Other key requirements include:
Strategic Leadership: Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans that drive organizational growth, impact, and sustainability. Experience leading organizational change and positioning organizations for long-term success.
Team Leadership: Track record of building, inspiring, motivating, and retaining high-performing teams. Strong coaching and mentoring abilities. Commitment to professional development and creating a positive organizational culture.
Public Policy Expertise: Deep understanding of public policy development and advocacy at the state and/or federal level. Experience working with legislators, regulatory agencies, and government officials to advance policy priorities. Ability to operate effectively in a bipartisan manner.
Business Acumen: Strong financial and operational management skills. Experience overseeing budgets, revenue generation, and resource allocation. Understanding of economic development principles and business operations.
Membership & Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrated success growing and engaging membership or stakeholder organizations. Ability to understand and address diverse member needs while building strong, lasting relationships.
Executive Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities. Proven public speaking skills and comfort representing organizations in high-profile settings, including with media, elected officials, and business audiences.
Board Governance: Experience working effectively with and reporting to Boards of Directors. Ability to collaborate with board members, build consensus, and ensure transparent communication and accountability.
Relationship Building: Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to connect with diverse stakeholders. Comfort engaging with businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises to Fortune 500 companies.
Virginia Knowledge: Familiarity with Virginia's economy, business environment, political landscape, and regional diversity is highly desirable but not required. A track record of community involvement and civic engagement is valued.
Event Management: Experience planning and executing successful conferences, programs, and events that deliver value and generate revenue. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: An undergraduate degree is required. An advanced degree (MBA, MPA, JD, or other relevant graduate degree) is preferred but not essential. COMPENSATION: A competitive compensation package will be provided commensurate with experience and qualifications. The Virginia Chamber offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.