AIA Memphis seeks an association or non-profit management professional to provide leadership as the next chief staff executive for the not-for-profit 501(c)6 organization. This is a significant managerial position requiring the services of an individual with extensive and successful experience working with volunteer organizations and various personality types. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director of AIA Memphis is responsible for managing operations and directing strategic initiatives for the professional society. The individual is a resource for volunteer leaders and association staff regarding the implementation of best practices, generation of new ideas, identification of non-dues revenue sources, and effective execution of the Board of Directors’ vision. The AIA Memphis ED is a strong advocate to the broader public for members, the American Institute of Architects, and the profession of architecture. About the Organization AIA Memphis’s mission is to promote architecture and the profession; advocate for livable and sustainable communities; and serve as a resourcefor our members. The American Institute of Architects (AIA), with over 99,000 members in 200+ chapters around the globe, inspires and empowers architects to improve society and transform the world. Through core values that center on being impactful, transformative, visionary, inclusive, and innovative, the AIA drives positive change through the power of design and focused activism. The AIA is a three-tiered organization operating at the global, state, and local levels. AIA Memphis is a local chapter/component of the AIA and is independently chartered and incorporated. The national organization is headquartered in Washington, DC and the statewide component, AIA Tennessee, is based in Nashville. With over 300 individual members, AIA Memphis is the second largest chapter in Tennessee and represents architects, early-career professionals, and allied collaborators in private practice, business, industry, government, and academia. AIA Memphis offers lectures and continuing education courses; numerous awards programs; specialized, issue-specific Knowledge Communities; advocacy for architects; daily communications online; and help for consumers looking for an architect. A Board of Directors governs AIA Memphis. Members volunteer on committees and task forces to develop programs and services. Additional information is available at Job Responsibilities POSITION REQUIREMENTS Education and Experience: Bachelor’s Degree, with position history demonstrating increasing responsibility. Minimum of five years of previous management-level experience working in association management, not-for-profit, government affairs, public administration, or communications. Business administration, organizational management, or architecture/design-related focus. Exposure to professional societies is preferred, with CAE or similar designation desired. Understanding of membership organizations or familiarity with the architecture profession. History of proactively recognizing and acting upon opportunities that benefit members. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Leadership qualities characterized by integrity and transparency. Ability to interact, advise, and communicate in a timely and respectful manner with volunteer leaders, members, employees, stakeholders, and allied organizations. Flexibility, diplomacy, persuasiveness, and ability to evaluate all sides of an issue. Self-confidence in knowledge and skills; willingness to take responsibility to accomplish goals. Ability to convey the association’s strategic vision to staff, board, volunteers, and donors. Excellent abilities in communication, interpersonal dynamics, leadership and management, problem solving, organization, decision making, planning, and policy development. Ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with attention to detail. Knowledge of and experience in the city of Memphis or Tennessee is preferred. Willingness to commit to a long-term association (3-5 years +) with AIA Memphis. Ability to relocate to Memphis or the surrounding area. Resourceful nature, innovative spirit, and creative approach are valued. Demonstrated positive attitude, organizational dedication, and energetic enthusiasm. Commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion across the AIA community. Must be supportive of and an advocate for the values of The American Institute of Architects ( Supervisory Responsibility: This position is the highest staff level within the organization; as such, the Executive Director operates as the chief executive for AIA Memphis. Works closely with: President, officers, Board of Directors, committees, task forces, and other volunteer leaders Members of AIA Memphis Leaders and staff team members of the AIA (global), AIA Tennessee, and local chapters All members of the staff team Other strategic partners and related professional organizations On-site and remote guests, visitors, vendors, and suppliers Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: This is a full-time exempt position (average of 2,080 hours per year). The individual will be responsible for seeking a physical space for the component to occupy. Generally, work hours and days are Monday through Friday. Periodic early morning, evening, or weekend work will be required. The selected ED will operate largely from the office, with some flexibility for remote work. Travel within and beyond the state should be expected several times per year. Base salary commensurate with education/experience and knowledge/skills/abilities, with additional benefits package to be negotiated. Range of $75,000-$95,000 in base salary is anticipated. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Qualifications ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS AIA Memphis provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Other Duties Candidates must be willing to undergo a background check including legal, educational, driving, credit, employment records, etc. This position description does not cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice. AIA Memphis has engaged an organizational management consultancy, The Three Aspens, Ltd., to assist with this executive search. Inquiries and nominations should be directed (confidentially) to Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA via e-mail at Additional Information Variable benefits based on negotiation How to Apply To be considered, applicants must submit a customized letter of interest and resume/curriculum vitae to Helene Dreiling at by 5pm CST on Monday, December 15, 2025. #J-18808-Ljbffr