Executive Director
1 day ago
Sacramento
Position Overview The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief staff officer for AIA Central Valley (AIACV), a chapter of the American Institute of Architects, providing strategic leadership, operational management, and advocacy for the architecture profession across the chapter’s 17-county region. The ED works in close partnership with the Board of Directors and committee chairs to implement the chapter’s mission, programs, and strategic goals, ensuring alignment with AIA’s national priorities while addressing the unique needs of the local design community. The ED also represents AIACV at regional Council of Architectural Component Executives (CACE) meetings and the AIA National Leadership Conference (as schedule and Chapter finances permit). General information on AIACV may be found at Key Responsibilities Advocacy and Public Engagement • Along with key committee chairs, serve as a liaison between the architectural community and local government, agencies, and decision-makers on issues affecting the built environment., • Support member engagement in policy discussions related to housing, sustainability, climate action, and community development., • Build partnerships with civic organizations, educational institutions, and allied professions to elevate awareness of the value of architecture and design., • Represent AIACV publicly through events, speaking engagements, and media outreach to communicate the chapter’s impact and advocacy priorities. Communications and Brand Stewardship • Maintain the chapter’s website and ensure timely updates on events, programs, and initiatives., • Serve as the primary point of contact for members, partners, and the public, ensuring clear and responsive communication., • Uphold AIA brand standards across all digital, print, and social media platforms to ensure a unified, professional presence., • Promote the work of AIACV members by publicizing outstanding architecture projects through awards programs, social media, and public exhibitions. Education and Professional Development • Oversee continuing education programming to meet or exceed AIA requirements, ensuring delivery of learning units., • Identify and develop educational opportunities that address current design, code, and professional practice topics relevant to members., • Support emerging professionals through mentorship, career development resources, and Architect Registration Examination (ARE) preparation programs., • Collaborate with AIA California and partner institutions to expand access to professional learning and leadership opportunities. Finance and Operations • Oversee all financial operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility, transparency, and compliance with federal, state, and local requirements., • Work with AIACV’s bookkeeper to prepare monthly financial reports, including statements of position, activities, and cash flows, for board review., • Maintain adequate insurance coverage, financial management policies, reserves, and data privacy protections., • Develop and manage the annual operating budget and ensure effective internal controls., • Maintain a current business continuity plan and operational procedures to safeguard the organization’s stability., • Support board participation in AIA leadership training opportunities and ensure compliance with accreditation and reporting requirements. Governance and Strategic Leadership • Partner with the Board of Directors to advance the chapter’s mission, goals, and strategic plan., • Ensure compliance with all required policies, including whistleblower protection, conflicts of interest, and records retention., • Support board development through annual orientation, leadership training, and adherence to AIA governance standards., • Maintain and update the chapter’s bylaws at least every ten years (or as needed) and submit revisions to AIA for review., • Provide strategic guidance and continuity during board transitions, fostering collaboration and informed decision-making. Membership and Engagement • Lead annual membership retention and recruitment efforts, communicating the value of AIA membership to architects, associates, allied professionals, and students., • Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages active participation across all membership categories., • Conduct outreach to new members and lapsed members to sustain a healthy, engaged membership base., • Seek member feedback through surveys, focus groups, and events to evaluate programs and identify emerging needs., • Champion equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of chapter operations and programming. Qualifications • Bachelor’s degree required; background in architecture, nonprofit management, communications, or related field preferred., • Minimum of five years of experience in association or nonprofit management, with proven leadership and operational skills., • Knowledge of the architecture and design profession and familiarity with AIA’s mission and structure desirable., • Excellent communication, financial management, and relationship-building abilities., • Ability to balance strategic vision with hands-on implementation in a dynamic, collaborative environment., • Demonstrated leadership of industry/professional teams or organizations., • Proficient in MS Office Suite, web-based applications and social media platforms. Reports to: Board of Directors, AIA Central Valley. Supervises: Chapter staff, interns, and contractors as applicable. Benefits: Benefits include approximately 10 paid holidays per year, a traditional paid winter office closure, vacation and sick leave, and a voluntary 401(k) plan with a capped employer matching contribution. Medical coverage is available after a 90-day probationary period with some restrictions. Hours and Salary: 36-40 hours/week desired, hybrid schedule with a minimum of 3 days in office and attendance at day/evening events. Salary to be negotiated and commensurate with AIA component Executive Director trends in California and nationwide. To apply: Please email a statement of interest and resume to . Questions and further information may be directed to Melisa Gaudreau, AIACV President, 916-216-3532.