Reports to: President & CEO/COO of State Chamber of Oklahoma
Division: Foundation
SUMMARY
The State Chamber Foundation is a vital resource for the State Chamber, providing research, analysis, and innovative solutions to support its mission of making Oklahoma the best state for business. By delivering sound data and actionable insights, the Foundation drives the development of programs and initiatives that strengthen the Chamber's advocacy efforts and create lasting economic progress for the state.
The Executive Director serves as the primary representative of the State Chamber of Oklahoma Foundation, overseeing all aspects of its operations and development. Responsibilities include strategic leadership, staff management, cultivating relationships with the board and funders, as well as spearheading program development and management to advance the Foundation's mission.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Serve as the chief spokesperson and ambassador for the State Chamber of Oklahoma Foundation, representing its interests to external stakeholders, including government officials, businesses, media, and the public.
Provide strategic leadership and direction for the Foundation's staff, programs and policy development, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and goals.
Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive fundraising strategies to secure financial support from donors, sponsors, and grant-making organizations.
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with the Foundation's board of directors, providing regular updates, guidance, and support to ensure effective governance and oversight.
Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of all Foundation programs, initiatives, and events, driving innovation and continuous improvement.
Collaborate with internal and external partners to identify emerging issues, trends, and opportunities relevant to the Foundation's work, and develop proactive responses and solutions.
Manage the Foundation's budget, resources, and administrative operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability.
Monitor and assess the impact and effectiveness of Foundation activities, using data and metrics to inform decision-making and drive performance improvement.
Foster a positive organizational culture that values teamwork, collaboration, and professional growth among staff and stakeholders.
Serve as member of the executive management team of the State Chamber and contribute to the overall goals of the organization.
External Engagement
Build and maintain a statewide coalition of forward-thinking business leaders willing to engage on bold policy changes that move Oklahoma forward.
Cultivate strategic relationships with key policymakers in collaboration with the Government Affairs team. Present State Chamber Foundation research to communities across Oklahoma.
Develop personal and organizational brand as a go-to thought leader on Oklahoma public policy, economic, and business issues.
Communication
Report regularly and provide updates to the State Chamber Executive Committee and Board of Directors as requested by the State Chamber President.
Work proactively with the State Chamber communications team to engage media, anticipate inquiries, and actively promote the foundation's initiatives.
Produce State Chamber Foundation publications.
Present and testify at legislative hearings as requested.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Excellent knowledge of issues affecting Oklahoma and the business community
A bachelor's degree is required for this position, with a preference for candidates holding a graduate degree.
At least ten years of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
Have the ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Ability to provide long-term strategy and execution
Strong analytical skills
Ability to manage and motivate people
Excellent interpersonal skills
Ability to build coalitions
Excellent writing and public speaking skills
Foundational knowledge of the State Chamber and its programs and operations
Strong ethics and positive attitude
WORKING CONDITIONS
Typical working conditions associated with this type of work and environmental hazards, if any, that may be encountered in performing the duties of this position. Work is normally performed in a climate-controlled environment, where exposure to conditions of extreme heat/cold, poor ventilation, fumes and gases are very limited. Noise level is moderate and includes sounds of a normal office environment. No environmental hazards are encountered in performance of normal job duties. Travel may be required. Driving may be required.