JDG Associates, Ltd. has been engaged to conduct the search for the Executive Director position of the Washington, DC-based Marine Technology Society (MTS).
The Opportunity
MTS offers an opportunity to work with a dynamic, financially secure technical society representing industry, government, and academic professionals focused on global marine technology issues. The position will call on the successful candidate to facilitate international exchange on a broad range of current issues. MTS is looking for a high energy, self-starter to work with a dedicated volunteer leadership committed to significantly growing the organization’s international scope and range of services. The successful candidate will play a direct role in raising the profile of an organization dedicated to serving as the global forum for exchange in promoting awareness, understanding, advancement and application of marine technology.
The Client
Founded in 1963, MTS is a multidisciplinary organization with approximately 3,500 individual and organizational members. Benefits include the peer-reviewed MTS Journal, the bi-monthly newsletter Currents covering business, science, the Society, legislation and education, and E-News covering opportunities for funding, networking, scholarships and fellowships and awards. MTS provides scholarships to students studying marine science and ocean engineering in addition to other educational opportunities. Most important, perhaps, is the continuing forum MTS provides for technical exchange and professional and organizational networking. MTS is a growing organization, boasting a membership of businesses, institutions, individual professionals and students who are ocean engineers, technologists, policy makers and educators. MTS’ vision is to be:
The leading authority and advocate for marine technology and resources while promoting member success and public understanding.
The Position
The Executive Director (ED) reports to the Board of Directors, primarily through the MTS President, apprising the Board on matters critical to member interests, the organization and the fulfillment of its mission. Serving as an ex officio member of the Board, the ED works to ensure the Board operates in a highly functional, efficient and effective manner. As the chief of staff officer of MTS, the position has responsibility for managing its staff and the overall execution of Board policies, including MTS’ Strategic Plan. The ED has immediate responsibility for the policies and practices necessary for the effective operation of the headquarters function and serves as a spokesperson for MTS in internal and external relations. The position supervises a full-time staff of four and an annual budget of $1.7 million.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
• Advises the Board of Directors on issues, developments and actions, following up on and implementing Board decisions and communicating its decisions and directions to staff
• Oversees the development of MTS’ strategic planning process, monitors and reports on progress and facilitates an annual review, identifying future trends affecting the field
• Oversees the creation/implementation of communications/membership marketing strategies to attract new members and enhance the value of membership to retain existing members
• Maintains and develops relationships with appropriate associations, societies and coalitions, ensuring at all times that alliances have a clear purpose and a specific range of activities
• Serves as spokesperson for MTS as directed by the President and Board of Directors
• Promotes a positive image for MTS with the public and in the marine technology field, positioning MTS as a leader
• Hires and supervises all staff, providing leadership that sustains increased customer service, effectiveness, productivity, entrepreneurial thinking and teamwork on MTS staff
• Maintains proactive communication and positive relationships with local sections
• Provides timely and accurate reporting of financial information to the Board of Directors and the membership according to policies set by the Board
• Oversees publication of the “MTS Journal” and “Currents” newsletter and the website
First Twelve Months
• Visible progress in the implementation of a membership development, retention and enhancement program
• Review MTS’ strategic planning activities and assist in the development of a new plan, undertaking specific steps and serving as the catalyst to its initiation and implementation
• Expand the range of MTS’ strategic and operational relationships, making other organizations aware of where it is going and inviting their support and collaboration
• Undertake steps to increase specific member benefits and service offerings
Position Requirements
Bachelor’s degree is required, graduate degree preferred. Experience in marine technology or related field desirable but not required. Association experience, especially with a technical professional society, useful, though not required. Leadership qualities and demonstrated success at increasing membership and growth are essential. Success in strategic planning and implementation very helpful, as would be a proven track record in marketing and business plan development and execution. Public speaking, communications and outreach experience and success are highly desirable.
Compatibles: Technological curiosity/acumen, sense of humor, multi-tasking, bridge builder, works and plays well with others, self-starter, team player, catalyst, engaging, high energy, collaborative.
CONTACT:
Paul A. Belford, Principal
JDG Associates, Ltd.
1700 Research Boulevard, Suite 103
Rockville, MD 20850
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. – 301 340 2210
