Job Details

President & Chief Executive Officer

The President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the organization. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO is responsible for executing the Chamber's mission, driving its strategic vision, and ensuring organizational excellence.

Based in West Hollywood, California, this executive leadership role is central to building and sustaining key relationships with members, businesses, local government, and regional partners. The CEO is charged with expanding the Chamber's influence, ensuring financial sustainability, and positioning West Hollywood as a thriving hub for innovation, commerce, and community.

Roles & Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership:

• Develops and implements WHCC's strategic plan in partnership with the Board of Directors.
• Provides visionary leadership that aligns with West Hollywood's evolving business and community landscape.
• Oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring organizational efficiency and alignment with governance policies and legal obligations.
• Leads and mentors a high-performing cross-functional team across communications, marketing, finance, and operations.

Community and Economic Development:

• Acts as the primary representative of WHCC, representing the organization at public events, City Council meetings, and in media.
• Builds strong relationships with local government, city staff, and business leaders to promote economic growth.
• Leads business attraction and retention strategies, including management of Business Improvement Districts and placemaking initiatives.
• Advocates for pro-business policies while ensuring alignment with the city's inclusive and forward-thinking values.

Financial Management:

• Oversees financial operations including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting in collaboration with the CFO.
• Develops and implements diversified revenue strategies including membership growth, sponsorships, fundraising and grants.
• Ensures financial targets are met through developing and monitoring program metrics.
• Ensures compliance with all relevant regulations, including tax and legal requirements.

Fundraising and Revenue Growth:

• Generates and sustains financial growth through membership dues, special events, program sponsorships, and contract partnerships.
• Provides support and indirect oversight of all events, including analyzing viability, mission alignment, and ensuring a viable return on investment.
• Sets and achieves annual fundraising goals, ensuring consistent revenue growth and financial sustainability.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Directly supervises four employees and fosters a collaborative, high-performing culture focused on meeting and exceeding fundraising goals.
• Establishes clear performance goals for the team and provides regular feedback and support.

Marketing and Communication:

• Oversees all marketing and communications efforts to enhance visibility and awareness of the organization's mission and fundraising efforts.
• In partnership with the Board's marketing committee and marketing manager, lead the development of clear, compelling messaging for member engagement including the value of member benefits, Chamber public policy positions and other marketing/communications messages, as needed.
• Represents the organization at public events, business forums, city council meetings, and industry conferences to elevate the Chamber's visibility and strengthen stakeholder engagement.

Board Relations and Governance:

• Serves as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors and board partners.
• Prepares and presents performance reports, strategic updates, and financial metrics to guide board decision-making.
• Supports board committees with governance, succession planning, fundraising, and public policy initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in any field of study is required; Master's degree desirable.
• 7-10 years of executive leadership experience, ideally within one of the following areas: civic organizations (such as economic development and/or other business organizations), small or large business, public-private partnerships, a Chamber of Commerce, or other community organization. While nonprofit experience is not required, the candidate must appreciate the nuances between a tax-exempt organization as compared to a business entity.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in tax exempt status.
• Proven success in strategic planning, financial oversight, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex civic and political environments, with deep knowledge of government relations and policy advocacy.
• Passion for supporting small business, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
• Inspirational and confident public speaker.
• Knowledge of West Hollywood's cultural, economic, and political ecosystem a plus.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and digital communication abilities.
• Deep understanding of membership development, special event sponsorship and fundraising best practices.
• Passion for WHCC's mission and values.
• Proven leadership and team-building skills.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and work ethic.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefits include employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan options, paid time off and holidays, and support for professional development.

This position is a fully in-person role with occasional evening and weekend commitments. There is some flexibility in scheduling, however the nature of the work calls for consistent in-person engagement to support Chamber activities effectively.