Executive Director

Solvang Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director – Job Description & Annual Performance Goals

Start Date: February 1, 2026

Position Overview

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive and public ambassador of the Solvang Chamber of Commerce. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED provides strategic leadership and is responsible for financial sustainability, membership, event execution, fundraising, and strong collaboration with the City of Solvang, as well as state and county partners.

Financial Overview & Accountability

• Annual Operating Budget: $200,000
• Annual Fundraising Goal: $100,000
• MAP (Marketing & Wayfinding Program) Fundraising Goal: $30,000
• Primary Revenue Streams: Membership dues, sponsorships, fundraising events, grants, partnerships, and MAP fundraising

Fiscal Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the annual operating budget
• Ensure transparent, accurate financial reporting to the Board of Directors
• Meet or exceed all fundraising and revenue targets, including MAP goals
• Maintain appropriate financial controls and operating reserves

Board Relations & Governance

• Serve as staff liaison to the Board of Directors and all Board committees
• Partner with the Board on strategic planning, policy development, and long-term sustainability
• Ensure compliance with all government, funder, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain official records in accordance with state and federal law

Core Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Governance

• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors
• Implement Board-approved strategic plans and policies
• Prepare agendas, reports, and recommendations for Board and committee meetings
• Provide vision and leadership aligned with the Chamber’s mission and strategic priorities

2. Fundraising & Revenue Development

• Achieve a minimum of $100,000 in annual fundraising
• Successfully raise an additional $30,000 for the MAP (Marketing & Wayfinding Program)
• Secure sponsorships for Chamber programs and signature events
• Cultivate and steward relationships with donors, sponsors, and grant-makers
• Develop new revenue-generating initiatives and strategic partnerships

3. Events & Programs Management

The Executive Director is responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating the Chamber’s signature events, including:

• Economic Summit (annual)
• State of the City Address (in partnership with the City of Solvang)
• Music in the Park (seasonal community series)
• Scarecrow Fest (fall community and tourism event)
• Holiday Community Awards Evening (annual celebration and recognition event)

Responsibilities include budgeting, sponsorship development, logistics, marketing coordination, volunteer management, and post-event evaluation and reporting.

4. Member Services & Economic Development

• Retain, grow, and engage Chamber membership
• Collaborate with the Board on membership mixers and educational programming
• Provide value-driven programming, networking opportunities, and advocacy
• Support local businesses through resources, referrals, and promotion
• Serve as a connector between businesses, nonprofits, and government partners

5. City & Community Relations

• Work closely with the City of Solvang on economic development, tourism, and marketing initiatives
• Coordinate with City staff and elected officials on joint events and communications
• Represent the Chamber at City meetings and community forums
• Strengthen partnerships with regional organizations and key stakeholders

6. Marketing & Communications

• Oversee Chamber branding, newsletters, website content, and social media platforms
• Promote Chamber events, members, and community initiatives
• Serve as a spokesperson for the Chamber when appropriate

Annual Performance Goals

Goal 1: Financial Sustainability

• Meet or exceed the $100,000 annual fundraising goal
• Achieve the $30,000 MAP (Marketing & Wayfinding Program) fundraising goal
• Operate within the approved $200,000 annual budget
• Increase sponsorship revenue year-over-year

Goal 2: Signature Events Excellence

• Successfully deliver the following events:
  • Economic Summit
  • State of the City Address
  • Music in the Park
  • Scarecrow Fest
  • Holiday Community Awards Evening
• Increase attendance, sponsorships, and overall community engagement for each event

Goal 3: Member & Business Impact

• Achieve net membership growth
• Improve member engagement and satisfaction
• Expand business resources, education, and networking opportunities

Goal 4: Strong City & Community Partnership

• Maintain a collaborative and productive working relationship with the City of Solvang
• Advance shared economic development and community goals
• Position the Chamber as a trusted leader and regional convener

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in a nonprofit, chamber of commerce, or economic development organization
• Demonstrated success in fundraising and sponsorship development
• Event management and community engagement expertise
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills
• Financial management and budgeting experience, including QuickBooks proficiency

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation aligned with the Chamber’s $200,000 organizational budget
• Commensurate with experience and performance
• Part-time position: 25–30 hours per week at $35.00 per hour, or
• Base salary (DOE) with benefits to include paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays

Application Process

To be considered for this position, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references (including phone number and email) to:

Executive Director Search Committee
Attn: Megan Friend, President
Email: MFriend@highwaywest.com