Chief Executive Officer

The Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) is conducting a search for a Chief Executive Officer. IECA is the premier membership organization representing professionals who serve students and families navigating their educational journey. IECA seeks a visionary Chief Executive Officer who can drive the organization forward with innovative ideas and strategic growth, bringing fresh perspectives and steering IECA toward a future of continued excellence and impact.

IECA seeks a dynamic and relational CEO who will lead and expand the organization, foster membership growth, implement widely embraced initiatives, and demonstrate industry leadership. As a direct liaison to the Board of Directors, the CEO will champion the organization s interests to members, volunteers, and governing entities. The CEO will be instrumental in infusing the organization with new ideas and driving innovation.

This role demands a leader who excels in strategic thinking, effective communication, and member engagement.

Candidates preferably bring association management experience and a nuanced understanding of the consulting landscape and collaborative partner organizations. Integral to their success will be a leadership approach characterized by shared decision-making, a relentless pursuit of results, and a sincere, education-focused mindset. Essential attributes include adaptability, effective communication, approachability, outstanding interpersonal abilities, and a compelling public presence.

Review of applications and expressions of interest will begin immediately and continue on a confidential basis until an appointment is made.

• Visionary Leadership of the IECA Culture:
  Drive transformational change by establishing IECA s strategic direction as the leading voice of the profession.
• Drive operational excellence across all IECA functions and processes by balancing hands-on support with strategic planning, managing multi-program operations, optimizing organizational resources, and aligning day-to-day tasks with long-term planning.
• Effectively, strategically, and efficiently manage financial resources to ensure IECA s sustainability and growth, while providing legal and compliance oversight.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills that foster meaningful relationships with staff, members, and the broader community.
• Leading the IECA staff with vision, inspiration, and collaborative decision-making.
• Connecting with IECA members to understand needs, foster engagement, provide support, help build professional and sustainable practices, work to harmonize college, school, and therapeutic elements, and strengthen the community.
• Partnering with the Board to align strategic priorities and governance objectives.
• Representing and advocating for IECA as the primary spokesperson, including engagement with government officials, the media, related educational associations and agencies, and the public.
• Inquiring continuously to stay informed about trends, challenges, and emerging opportunities.

• Organizational Commitment: Ability and commitment to manage a 501c6, member-driven association.
• Leadership
  
  Experience:
  
  Five to ten years of experience as a visionary, resourceful, and transparent senior leader, with a strong preference for experience in the association and education sectors.
• Financial Management: Proven leadership in creating and managing an organization s budget and cash flow at both a macro and micro level. Includes the ability to pivot quickly during economic conditions related to both membership pressures and association financial pressures.
• Leadership Philosophy: An empathetic, supportive, ethical, and education-focused mindset combined with exceptional business acumen, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Governance
  
  Experience:
  
  Prior successful experience working directly with, or reporting to, a Board of Directors.
• Operational Management: History with the successful management of a dynamic, multi-program, member-driven organization, and a strong understanding of what it takes to maximize program effectiveness, maintain deliverable quality, and optimize resources.
• Decision-Making Ability: Proven ability to make sound, timely, and educated business and managerial decisions, highlighting strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• External Relations: A strong public speaking and media presence to effectively represent the organization and engage with external stakeholders.
• Membership Leadership: Demonstrated ability to engage and lead a dynamic membership and volunteer community, fostering collaboration, cohesion, and a strong sense of shared purpose across the organization.
• Staff Management: Proven ability to lead and manage staff with an approachable, positive leadership style that builds trust and promotes collaboration in a fast-paced environment.
• Culture and Partnerships: Experience in fostering an inclusive and diverse organizational culture while establishing and maintaining positive…