Salary Stories: What are the Qualities of an Effective Executive Director?

Name: Kris Kingdon
Job Title: Executive Director, Carmichael Chamber of Commerce
Where: Carmichael, CA
Employer: Carmichael Chamber of Commerce
Years of Experience: 2.5 years
Education: High School Grad; Community College Courses, including Business Admin and IT
Salary: See PayScale's Research Center for the Average Salary for an Executive Director.

Executive Director Career

Not all organizations have the same idea of what to expect an executive director to achieve. Executive director positions aren’t all created equal, but one thing is for certain: the essential qualities of an effective executive director stay the same. In this interview with Kris Kingdon, she explains the ups and downs of being an executive director, how she got there, and a detailed breakdown of her job duties.

Executive Director Job Description

Kris: As the only paid staffer in the organization my duties cover:

Gatekeeper of a nonprofit membership based organization
All accounts payable, receivable and collections
Reconcile end of month accounting/treasurer reports
Produce and present monthly membership reports for monthly board of directors meeting
Update board on issues directly affecting the chamber
Execute all legal contracts and documents
Verify tax preparation is completed
Customer service for members and walk-ins
Recruit new members & volunteers
Keep all databases current
Verify all members take advantage of their membership
Write monthly newsletter, print, assemble 400 copies and prepare for USPS bulk mail procedures
Plan, execute monthly membership meetings
Produce monthly board of director meeting, agendas and support materials
Listen to members' concerns and suggestions and act appropriately
Serve and assist the president and other board members
Encourage board members to participate at a volunteer level (commitment to serve)
Liaison to all committees and co-chair main committee
Be able to multitask daily and always have a "plan B"

What were your steps toward an executive director career?

Kris: For 12+ years I helped my husband create his three businesses from scratch out of our home. When my youngest was on a full-time school schedule, and the economy wasn't very construction friendly, I used the opportunity to get out and volunteer. I chose to volunteer at our local chamber because it revolved around what I knew best - small businesses. That lead to an admin assistant position. That lead to an opportunity to apply for the executive director position. I got the position, but resigned after several months after realizing their priorities were not in line with my philosophy to serve the membership. I then applied at a neighboring chamber and was hired as an office manager, and then promoted to executive director within three months. I love helping people with their businesses. I truly believe a chamber membership is an investment that, if used to it's fullest, can give you business networking and advertising at rates incomparable to most other organizations. If the chamber is doing its job, and you are taking advantage of your membership benefits, you will see a return on your investment. A chamber membership is also an accolade that separates you from another non-chamber business; it states that your business has a stake in the community and you are here to stay.

What do you like about being an executive director?

Kris: I meet business members in the community on a daily basis. They always have an interesting experience to tell me about and for me to learn from. Most recently, we sponsored, along with the Carmichael Recreation & Park District, the celebration of our community's 100th birthday. After nine months of planning, we put on a day-long free event, including free admission, free parking and free children’s activities (inflatables, rock walls, clowns, theater). We had free live entertainment, over 120 vendor booths and crafters and a classic car show, all prepaid by the member sponsorships. The event was attended by approximately 5000 people, including our opening ceremonies with guests of honor Congressman Dan Lungren, assembly members Roger Niello and Alyson Huber, Supervisor Susan Peters, and Chief Deputy Landry and board members from the Carmichael Rec & Park District, Water District and Cemetery District, emceed by our Honorary Mayor. We buried a time capsule complete with unique items, past and present. We ended the celebration with a grand finale fireworks show! This was a team effort of many chamber and park volunteers, and of course our generous sponsors. My face still hurts from smiling!

What are some of the challenges you face as an executive director?

Kris: As the only staff member, I am responsible for all administrative duties and executive duties. The key is multitasking. I have come to realize it is a 24/7 job. There isn't a day that goes by that someone needs something and it is my job to help them. You have to be able to get along with all board members regardless of your/their personal philosophies. Board members come with their own personalities and agendas and hopefully the chamber's best interest at heart. Board members come and go, but the executive director is there for the long haul.

What are some of the best aspects of being an executive director?

Kris: Challenging myself to take the job. Pulling off an event that people said couldn't be done! Meeting and working with some of the most amazing people in my community. Making mistakes and learning along the way. The satisfaction that I have done my best and seen our chamber grow and rise to a new level of integrity.

Do you have any advice for those interested in a career as an executive director?

Kris: Be flexible - your volunteers are your key. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Learn to be resourceful, work with what you have. Don't reinvent the wheel, find another organization that is successful and tweak it to your organization's needs. Thank everyone for everything they have ever done for you and the chamber, whether via phone or a personal card. Keep plenty of thank you cards on your desk. Ask advice from people who have experience in various situations. Use everyday as a learning opportunity. When introducing a business person, always mention their business name in the introduction. Be an advocate for the chamber/organization in board meetings. Go with your gut; if it isn't right, do some thing about it. Follow your instinct. Let your president shine; if she/he shines, the chamber shines. Ninety percent of your work is behind the scenes. Get used to it.

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