Description

About ASBA

The Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) champions the success of entrepreneurs and small employers statewide. We advance a thriving small-business ecosystem through advocacy, practical education, high-value member benefits, and trusted connections to partners and resources. ASBA convenes leaders across cities, agencies, and industry to remove barriers to growth and help Arizona businesses start, scale, and thrive.
 
Position Summary

The CEO is ASBA’s chief executive and strategic leader, the public face of the organization, and its chief fundraiser. The CEO sets direction and drives execution by leading the executive team, partnering with the Board of Directors on strategy and budget, and converting priorities into measurable results. The CEO represents Arizona’s small business community in media, policy, and partnerships and is accountable for growing and diversifying revenue to ensure long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a long-term strategic plan aligned with ASBA’s mission and goals, establishing organization-wide priorities and annual targets. 
• Foster innovation and growth across programs that support small business development and entrepreneurship.
• Leads ASBA’s public presence with consistent, proactive media, policy, and stakeholder engagement. 
• Identify and pursue opportunities for growth and innovation that expand member value, strengthen partnerships, and diversify revenue. 

Organizational Management

• Lead a high-performing executive team and manage through the COO for day-to-day execution, systems, and compliance; instill a culture of collaboration, accountability, and impact.

Revenue & Financial Management

• Develop, manage, and present the annual budget in collaboration with the Board.
• Lead revenue generation and fundraising efforts, diversifying revenue across membership, sponsorships, grants/philanthropy, programs, and events with clear annual targets and ownership of top relationships and closes. 
• Ensure financial sustainability and transparency through sound fiscal practices.

Community & Partner Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with members, partners, government agencies, and community leaders, serving as the face of ASBA. 
• Advocate for small business interests at the local, state, and national levels.
• Serve as the chief spokesperson and primary representative, overseeing promotion, publicity, and public relations. 
• Expand ASBA’s visibility and influence through strategic partnerships and outreach.

Programs, Events & Impact Strategy

• Set priorities and standards for impactful programs, events, and resources that advance small businesses and entrepreneurial growth.
• Ensure offerings are innovative and data-driven by continuously assessing effectiveness and alignment with member needs, market trends, and long-term strategic goals.
• Expand ASBA’s reach, influence, and ability to drive meaningful outcomes for small businesses.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliant, audit-ready practices, establishing and maintaining policies and procedures that meet regulatory, financial, and operational standards across the organization and related entities. 
• Deliver accurate, timely performance and financial reports to the Board. 
• Serve as a trusted liaison to the Board, providing informed guidance, facilitating effective governance, and supporting Board engagement with the community and key stakeholders.

Advocacy & Public Relations

• Act as ASBA’s primary spokesperson to elevate visibility; own the brand and public voice. 
• Direct public relations and media strategy, including proactive campaigns and timely communications. 
• Advance strategic priorities by educating policymakers, representing small business interests, and guiding high-level advocacy and public relations initiatives.

Salary 

Salary starting at $90,000+, plus performance-based bonus commensurate with experience, skill set, and results. 

Benefits 

Competitive package including medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with employer match; paid time off and holidays; hybrid work schedule; and vehicle allowance. 

To Apply

Provide a cover letter and resume. Please direct all questions to CEOhire@asba.com. No phone calls, please.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Five (5) + years of prior experience as a CEO, Executive Director, senior executive in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization, with a record of executive leadership and strategic execution. 
• Strong business and financial acumen; experience developing budgets, stewarding resources, and ensuring transparency.  
• Demonstrated success as a fundraiser including sponsorships, grants, and membership. 
• Proven experience working with and leading a nonprofit Board; ability to lead diverse stakeholder groups. 
• Deep understanding of small business challenges, economic development, and public policy.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills; persuasive written, oral, and public speaking abilities.
• Experience and success in motivating, recruiting, developing, retaining, and mentoring high performance, mission-driven teams.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Preferred Attributes

• Passion for supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses.
• Knowledge of Arizona’s business landscape and legislative environment.