Amherst Area Chamber of

Commerce
April 12, 2016

The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, serving over 450

member businesses in the Pioneer Valley of Western
Massachusetts, seeks an outstanding and dynamic leader as
its next Executive Director. In conjunction with the President of
the Board of Directors of AACC, the position acts as the public
spokesperson and primary face of the organization. Utilizing
strong sales, financial and managerial skill, the Executive
Director will oversee strategy, government, and community
relations, membership, and daily operations. A successful
candidate will be versatile, highly motivated, organized, and
self-directed with the ability to be flexible enough to adapt to
the challenging dynamics of an active and diverse community.
AACC plays an important role in the commercial, civic, and
cultural life of the town and the region. For members, the
organization holds networking and educational opportunities for
its members, as well as important annual events that draw
visitors to the area. AACC works closely with the Amherst
Business Improvement District, the University-Town of Amherst
Collaborative, the Hampshire County Regional Tourism
Council, the Hampshire County Regional Stewardship Initiative,
the Economic Development Council of Western
Massachusetts, and the Greater Northampton, Easthampton
and Franklin County Chambers of Commerce.
The Chamber's membership is very diverse, and includes
several large institutions, though membership is primarily made
up of small, independent businesses averaging 1-5 employees.
The college environment fosters a culture of entrepreneurship
as evidenced by our "Hidden Tech" community, many of whom
have relocated to the area for its natural beauty and easy

and Franklin County Chambers of Commerce.

The Chamber's membership is very diverse, and includes
several large institutions, though membership is primarily made
up of small, independent businesses averaging 1-5 employees.
The college environment fosters a culture of entrepreneurship
as evidenced by our "Hidden Tech" community, many of whom
have relocated to the area for its natural beauty and easy
proximity to New York and Boston. UMass' investment in the
sciences and a recent building boom ensure that the economic
future is bright for the area.
The region brings in hundreds of thousands of visitors each
year, many on college visits, and the town has a robust tourism
industry built on the well-known brands of the Emily Dickinson
Museum, the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, and the
National Yiddish Book Center. Amherst has a daytime
population of over 60,000 and averages over 100,000
convention-goers each year.
Position Overview - Executive Director of AACC
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Works closely with municipal, state, and federal government on
a wide variety of issues related to the economic health of its
members.
Works closely with leaders of the Colleges and the University
on issues related to town/gown relations or other shared goals.
Plans, creates, implements, and promotes a variety of small
and large Chamber events; must be willing and comfortable
raising sponsorship money for events.
Oversees and manages budget, utilizing the understanding of
financial and accounting principles for small non-profit
organizations. In partnership with the Board Treasurer, the ED
is responsible for creating and maintaining the financial health
of the Chamber.
Serves as the public relations voice of the organization around
a wide variety of issues, including responding to print and
television media requests.
Attends many events and functions as the Chamber's
representative, presents to town committees related to
membership concerns or the stated agenda of the organization.

is responsible for creating and maintaining the financial health

of the Chamber.
Serves as the public relations voice of the organization around
a wide variety of issues, including responding to print and
television media requests.
Attends many events and functions as the Chamber's
representative, presents to town committees related to
membership concerns or the stated agenda of the organization.
Negotiates contracts on behalf of the Chamber in consultation
with the board president.
Acts as editor of all Chamber publications and communications,
electronic and printed, including its Relocation Guide and
Membership Directory.
Completes other duties as required by the President of the
Board of Directors.
Minimum qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and 5-7 years management experience in a
related field.
Business experience.
Ability to think critically and to solve problems creatively.
Ability to work well under critical deadlines.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with members,
residents, staff, interns, and volunteers; must demonstrate
proactive and team-oriented leadership.
Demonstrated ability to work with and motivate a diverse Board
of Directors.
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal
abilities. Excellent persuasive and negotiation skills.
Proficiency with office computing applications.
Strong knowledge of social media.
Must be willing to work frequent nights and weekends.
Must be willing to travel out of town for occasional meetings
and events.
A keen sense of humor is a plus.
Employment Status:
Full time, salaried with three weeks of vacation to start. The
Chamber offers a health plan and retirement benefits. The
salary is commensurate with experience.
For consideration, please email a cover letter, resume, and

Employment Status:
Full time, salaried with three weeks of vacation to start. The
Chamber offers a health plan and retirement benefits. The
salary is commensurate with experience.
For consideration, please email a cover letter, resume, and
salary history to Jerry Guidera, Interim Executive Director and
Board Secretary - Jerry@AmherstArea.com.
The position will remain open until filled by the best qualified
candidate.

Chamber Staff
Jerry Guidera, Interim Executive Director
Kim Alli, Marketing & Membership Director
Luz Arregoces, Administrative Staff
Stay connected to the Chamber