Chief Executive Officer

San Diego Association of Realtors•San Diego, CA

About The Position

The Greater San Diego Association of Realtors (SDAR) helps realtors take their business to the next level. Our mission is to empower San Diego realtors by delivering innovative tools, advocacy, and education that elevate professionalism, while actively protecting private property rights and advocating on behalf of realtors and homeowners at all levels of government. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for the overall management, strategic direction, and operational performance of SDAR. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO leads the organization toward its mission and strategic objectives while ensuring financial stability, regulatory compliance, strong member value, and effective governance. The CEO provides leadership and direction to staff, serves as the primary liaison to local, state, and national REALTOR® associations, and represents SDAR publicly in partnership with SDAR leadership.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
Minimum of 10 years of executive leadership experience, preferably in a membership-based, nonprofit, or trade association environment
Prior experience working within the real estate industry
Prior experience in public speaking
Demonstrated experience working with a Board of Directors
Strong background in financial management, organizational leadership, and strategic planning
Excellent communication and relationship management skills
Willingness and ability to travel regularly for Association business
Proficiency with Microsoft Office

Responsibilities

Oversee the day-to-day operations of SDAR in accordance with by-laws, policies, and Board directives
Establish and implement operational policies, procedures, and systems to ensure effective execution of Association activities
Review operational and financial performance against established objectives and take corrective action when needed
Ensure organizational resources are aligned to support strategic priorities
Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement long-term strategic plans consistent with the Association’s mission
Provide advice, guidance, and recommendations to the Board on major initiatives, organizational risks, and opportunities
Ensure the Board, Executive Committee, and Officers are fully informed of SDAR conditions and key issues
Attend all Board of Directors and Executive Committee meetings as an ex officio, nonvoting member
Oversee financial operations to ensure fiscal stability and sustainability
Develop annual budgets for review and approval by the Budget and Asset Committee and Board of Directors
Ensure appropriate safeguarding and administration of all SDAR funds, physical assets, intellectual property, and records
Oversee fundraising efforts and ensure compliance with applicable financial regulations and reporting requirements
Represent SDAR and its members’ interests to government officials, industry leaders, and the public; serve as SDAR spokesperson
Advocate for legislation and public policies that benefit REALTORS® and private property rights
Serve as a primary liaison to Local, State (C.A.R.), and National (N.A.R.) Associations
Travel to C.A.R., N.A.R., and other industry meetings as requested on behalf of the Association
Serve on State and National committees when such service benefits SDAR
Build and maintain strong relationships with SDAR members
Ensure delivery of meaningful member value through education, events, advocacy, and communications
Oversee member communications, including newsletters, mailings, website content, and public announcements
Establish and maintain effective communication systems for staff, volunteers, and members
Recruit, hire, orient, train, motivate, and retain employees
Oversee and conduct performance evaluations; serve as a mentor for leadership
Approve promotions and terminations in accordance with SDAR policy
Maintain competitive and compliant salary and benefits structures
Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, ethical standards, and REALTOR® Core Standards
Maintain SDAR’s charter and standing with governing bodies
Oversee investigations, negotiations, and due diligence related to mergers, joint ventures, acquisitions, or major asset transactions with Board approval
Negotiate and execute contracts within Board-authorized limits and approved budgets
Maintain official records, including Board minutes, legal documents, and historical files
Ensure security and confidentiality of membership records, mailing lists, and sensitive documents