Executive Director

About the DeSoto Area Chamber of Commerce

The DeSoto Area Chamber of Commerce fosters economic growth and prosperity in the business community of the DeSoto, Texas, area through economic stimulation, networking, advocacy, support, and information. The Chamber promotes the community by building meaningful relationships among businesses, citizens, schools, civic organizations, and charitable organizations.

Position Summary

The Executive Director is hired by and reports to the Board of Directors and is responsible for the Chamber's day-to-day operations and for carrying out the policies and strategic initiatives set by the Board. The Executive Director works closely with the business community in DeSoto and surrounding areas and partners with the City of DeSoto, DeSoto ISD, and other community organizations.

Class: Part-Time (20 hours/week) with potential to become Full-Time
Reports To: Chairman of the Board of Directors

Key Responsibilities

• Planning & Operations: Develop and execute business, financial, marketing, and operational plans with Chamber committees; monitor progress toward goals.
• Membership Growth & Retention: Lead new-member recruitment, increase engagement and retention, and work with the Membership and Ambassador Committees; facilitate workshops, seminars, and roundtables for local businesses.
• Board Relations & Governance: Attend Board meetings, report key issues, prepare agendas, maintain minutes and records, and implement Board-approved initiatives.
• Financial Management: Manage finances with the Treasurer and Budget & Finance Committee; implement the Board-approved budget.
• Policy Administration: Maintain and consistently apply Chamber policies and procedures.
• Programs & Events: Plan and run Chamber programs, ribbon cuttings, and networking events with committees, volunteers, vendors, and sponsors.
• Advocacy & Public Relations: Serve as key spokesperson; represent business interests with government officials, community leaders, and media.
• Business & Community Development: Partner on economic development; serve as liaison with regional and state chambers.
• Leadership: Recruit, train, and supervise staff and volunteers with Board approval.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economic Development, Communications, Marketing, Public Administration, or related field (equivalent experience or certifications in business consulting, chamber management, or community economic development may substitute year-for-year).
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in a business, nonprofit, or membership organization.
• Demonstrated experience in grant research, writing, and administration.
• CRM experience (e.g., ChamberMaster) a plus.
• Strong strategic thinking, planning, organization, and communication skills; experience with traditional and online media preferred.

Working Conditions

• 20 hours per week, flexibly managed within Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Occasional early morning, evening, and weekend events (counted toward the 20 hours).
• Ability to lift and transport materials up to 25 lbs.

Compensation

• $2,500 per month (equivalent to $31.25/hour)
• Mileage reimbursement at the current IRS standard rate for approved business travel

Download the full job description (PDF)

To Apply

Send a resume and cover letter to boardsecretary@desotoareachamber.org by Thursday, November 5, 2026.