JOB TITLE: Workforce & Member Relations Director
REPORTS TO: President/CEO
EMPLOYMENT: Salary, Non-Exempt Position, Full Time - 40+ hours per week
GOALS OF POSITION:
The Workforce & Member Relations Director is a crucial position within the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce (HOW). This position is responsible for leading the Chamber of Commerce efforts in Workforce Development and Education and also leading membership efforts while assisting with Quality of Life events. This position reports directly to the HOW President/CEO.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Produce key workforce development programs and events including the following:
- Implement the following events as a lead organizer
- Business Luncheons
- Leadership Programs (Teen and Adult)
- Job Fairs
- Business Expos
- Network Exchange Groups
- Other events as developed (per president’s direction)
- Responsible for developing and/or obtaining accurate sponsorship information, event guest lists, and post-event follow-up and evaluations for specific key events.
- Assist in the recruitment of volunteers for events in coordination with other staff
- Track budget, income, and expenses for events and programs
- Find and develop sponsorships for relevant programs and events.
- Serve as staff liaison and coordinator for regional workforce and talent initiatives.
- Identify and coordinate business connections to support School-To-Career activities
- Design and deliver Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programming
- Develop/maintain relationships and serve as a liaison with the Wisconsin Technical College System, UW System, Department of Workforce Development, and Department of Public Instruction as appropriate and necessary to participate in state activities.
- Provide leadership, innovation, and vision to current and future high school education and business and industry trends as it relates to School-To-Career and Workforce Development
- Develop and implement strategies to recruit new Chamber members, including outreach and community engagement.
- Cultivate strong relationships with existing members to encourage engagement, satisfaction, and long-term retention.
- Manage and track membership sign-ups.
- Coordinate and promote member benefits to ensure value is consistently communicated and delivered.
- Conduct regular check-ins and follow-up with members to identify needs, gather feedback, and connect them with Chamber resources.
- Collaborate with marketing and events directors to create initiatives that drive member participation and visibility.
- Onboard new members and ensure they are welcomed and informed about available programs and services.
SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Other areas of responsibility include overseeing various committees and programs related to education and workforce development.
- Will assist in developing and managing the Chamber of Commerce budget for specific events and programs.
- Will work closely with communications staff and president regarding interaction with local, regional, and national media.
- Must be able to effectively interact with the HOW staff, boards, investors, community leaders, elected officials, university officials, existing businesses, HOW members, and volunteers that are essential in carrying out the mission of the HOW.
- Bringing to the attention of the President trends, incidents, actions, and events that affect the membership/business community/organization.
- Engage in a continuing program of self-improvement and keep up to date with trends in the fields of Chamber organizations and communications.
- Other duties will be required as assigned by the HOW President/CEO.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education
Associate’s degree in business, communications, or a related field preferred.
Experience
Requirements also include a minimum of three years chamber of commerce experience or a related field such as education, workforce development, or non-profit experience.
Skills
- Detailed oriented, establish positive membership/customer relationships
- Must be willing to speak in front of people
- Have impeccable oral and written communication skills
- Be able to demonstrate effective public relations skills
- Be passionate about promoting the HOW community
- Prepare clear, concise, and accurate reports
- Be able to succeed in a highly collaborative, team-based environment.
- Present a professional, positive image to members and the HOW community
- Have a positive, welcoming and professional manner in person and on the telephone
- Display a high degree of tact and diplomacy
- Have excellent organizational and time management skills yet remain flexible and adaptable to changing priorities
- Must be a self-starter, able to develop their own leads and have effective follow-through skills
- Well-developed interpersonal skills demonstrated by effectively interacting and collaborating with people of diverse backgrounds and interests
- Be able to work flexible hours, including some early mornings, evenings and weekends.
- Assist with after-hours events and programs as needed.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneDrive