Seeking a Dynamic and Visionary leader to drive the Chamber’s strategic direction and growth.
About the DC Chamber of Commerce
The DC Chamber of Commerce is the largest and top-rated Chamber in the Washington, D.C., region, serving over 1,500 diverse members. For more than 75 years, the Chamber has been a strong advocate for the local business community, offering support through public policy advocacy, networking opportunities, and educational programs. As the voice for all businesses in D.C., the Chamber strives to reduce the cost of doing business, foster business growth, and create a better environment for economic success across the District.
The Chamber's vision extends to fostering international engagement, economic development, and regional growth. As the driving force behind many of the city's business initiatives, the Chamber works closely with key stakeholders, including the Mayor, the DC Council, local businesses, and other partners, to continuously improve the business landscape in the nation’s capital.
About the Role and Position
The President & CEO of the DC Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic and visionary leader responsible for driving the Chamber’s strategic direction, promoting business interests in the District, and enhancing the value provided to members. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO will serve as the chief advocate and alliance builder for the business community, guiding the Chamber’s efforts to shape public policy, foster economic growth, and provide critical support to member companies.
This position leads an approximately 2.5 million organization with a dedicated team of 7 employees and 5 consultants, requiring a leader who can execute a comprehensive business strategy, ensure operational efficiency, and represent the Chamber to key stakeholders and the broader community. The CEO will be tasked with advancing the Chamber's 2025 strategic goals, including increasing member retention, growing revenue, expanding services, and deepening the Chamber’s impact.
Primary Responsibilities
Advocacy & Public Policy: Represent the Chamber and its members before local government bodies. Collaborate with other organizations to advance pro-business policies and shape the city's economic landscape.
Membership Growth & Engagement: Develop strategies to recruit, engage, and retain members by providing relevant programs, services, and value-added opportunities. Build and nurture strong relationships with member companies.
Board Relations: Act as a trusted partner to the Board of Directors, maintaining open communication and guiding strategic decision-making to achieve the Chamber's long-term objectives.
Community Leadership: Serve as a community leader, fostering relationships with government entities, local businesses, and other key stakeholders. Lead coalitions and partnerships that advance the Chamber’s mission.
Revenue Generation & Fundraising: Identify and secure new sources of revenue, including non-dues funding. Oversee fundraising efforts and develop partnerships that support the Chamber’s growth.
Staff Leadership: Attract, develop, and retain a high-performing team. Foster a positive organizational culture aligned with the Chamber's values and strategic goals.
Financial & Operational Management: Oversee the Chamber's financial health, ensuring a balanced budget and the efficient allocation of resources. Provide regular financial updates to the Board and manage investments.
Public Representation: Act as the public face of the Chamber, articulating the organization’s goals and achievements to media, government officials, and community stakeholders.
About the Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate for the CEO position will be a proven leader with extensive experience in advocacy, public policy, and organizational management. Key qualities and qualifications include:
Leadership Experience: At least 10 years of senior leadership experience in a nonprofit or for-profit organization of similar size and scope. Experience working with a Board of Directors is a plus.
Advocacy & Public Policy: Demonstrated success in advancing an agenda and working with government entities, particularly in a local or regional context. Familiarity with, and strong existing relationships within the D.C. political landscape is highly desirable.
Revenue Generation: A successful track record in fundraising and developing new revenue streams.
Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, with experience serving as a public spokesperson.
Community Leadership: Strong relationship-building skills, with a history of forging alliances with diverse stakeholders across the business, government, and nonprofit sectors.
Strategic Thinking: Ability to craft and execute strategic plans that drive organizational growth and member value.
Financial Acumen: Proficiency in managing budgets, developing financial strategies, and ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Staff Development: A collaborative leader who can attract, develop, and inspire a diverse, high-performing team.
Visionary Leadership: A forward-thinking, innovative leader who can steer the Chamber through changing economic landscapes and evolving member needs.
An undergraduate degree is required; an advanced degree is preferred.
Application Process
For consideration, interested candidates will complete the following: online application, submit a resume (Word or PDF), and submit a letter addressing your interest, experience, and alignment to the mission of the Chamber and qualifications of the position. Applications will be accepted through October 15, 2024.
The DC Chamber of Commerce appreciates the diversity of human beings and does not discriminate based on race, age, religion, ability, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
On June 20, 1938, the Washington, DC Chamber of Commerce was incorporated in the nation’s capital. Initially formed to provide services for African–American businesses in the city, the name of the organization was changed to the Negro Chamber of Commerce in 1946, to reflect the unique needs of black businesses.
In 1956 our leadership re-evaluated the needs of businesses in the city and re-established itself as the District of Columbia Chamber of Commerce. With the new name came a new direction, and the Chamber expanded its operations to address the needs of all businesses in the District of Columbia.
The DC Chamber has continued to uphold its commitment to delivering the capital to businesses and citizens. We provide invaluable tools to help businesses develop, and it leverages relationships with key contacts in the DC Council and the Federal government to improve the business climate and attract new businesses to the District.
Mission: To be the most valuable resource and leading advocate for businesses throughout the District of Columbia.
Vision: To create a vibrant, thriving economy that improves the quality of life for all in the District, establishing mutually beneficial partnerships between business, government and the community.
