Executive Director at Florida… · Belle Isle

The Executive Director of the FVMA will be a results-driven, dynamic leader who connects deeply with members and continuously creates greater value for the association. The Executive Director is expected to build upon the FVMA's strong foundation in legislative affairs, expand our widely recognized continuing education programs, and grow the reach and impact of the FVMA Foundation and its programs.

The Executive Director serves as the chief administrative officer of the association and is responsible for conducting the affairs of the association as directed by the Executive Board. In addition to the

membership association, the Executive Director holds responsibility for the FVMA Foundation and FVMA Political Action Committee. Association policy, vision, and fiscal oversight reside with the 16-member elected Executive Board.

With direct supervision and management of association staff, the Executive Director holds primary responsibility for day-to-day operations. This leader drives innovative thinking around programs, continuing education, member benefits, and services, while initiating proactive and thoughtful advocacy on issues affecting the veterinary profession across Florida.

The Executive Director works in concert with the American Veterinary Medical Association and other aligned organizations, state lobbyists, and policymakers — advocating with integrity, political acumen, and an unwavering commitment to the membership's best interests. The Executive Director inspires greater member engagement through compelling communications, valuable tools, and relevant resources. This position also serves as executive editor of all association publications.

This is a unique opportunity to lead an exciting, financially strong, and nationally respected organization — guiding a dedicated community of veterinary professionals and shaping the future of the profession in Florida.

LEADERSHIP PROFILE

The ideal Executive Director is a transparent, ethically grounded, and member-centered leader who thrives at the intersection of people, mission, and strategy. They bring energy and optimism to the veterinary profession and are genuinely excited to serve a community they care about. They communicate with clarity and authenticity — with legislators, members, staff, and the public alike — and earn trust through consistent follow-through and sound judgment.

This leader is collaborative by nature, comfortable working alongside an engaged volunteer board, and skilled at translating strategic vision into day-to-day operational results. They build strong, high-performing teams and foster a culture of accountability, inclusion, and professional growth. They are proactive, not reactive — anticipating trends in the profession and bringing creative solutions to the Executive Board before challenges become crises.

EXPECTED FIRST YEAR OUTCOMES

• Within the first 60 days: Meet with staff, Executive Board members, and key stakeholders; establish a regular cadence of communication and relationship-building.
• Within the first 90 days: Develop a thorough understanding of the budget and finances, membership programs, and legislative and regulatory priorities; complete an initial review with the Board of Governors.
• By the end of the first year: Be recognized as an integral and respected leader in the profession; have implemented a plan to grow membership and elevate the FVMA's visibility; be an effective and proactive advocate for veterinary professionals; and have developed a strategic vision to grow membership and continuing education programs, strengthen the FVMA Foundation, and expand the impact of programs like Inspire.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Organizational Leadership

• Serve as the chief spokesperson for the FVMA, ensuring the association is consistently represented in a strong, credible, and positive manner
• Lead strategic planning; develop annual and long-term plans for membership growth, program expansion, and public policy initiatives
• Oversee all financial operations; develop and manage annual budgets, monitor cash flow, and provide timely, accurate financial reports to the Executive Board
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing staff culture aligned with organizational goals and values
• Develop and oversee programs, continuing education events, and member services that deliver meaningful value to Florida veterinary professionals
• Drive membership retention and growth through effective communication, advocacy, and relevant programming
• Champion the FVMA Foundation and its programs, including Inspire, to expand the association's philanthropic impact and investment in the next generation of veterinary leaders
• Identify and develop non-dues revenue opportunities, including sponsorships, partnerships, and expanded conference programming, to diversify and strengthen the FVMA's financial base
• Oversee and guide the FVMA's digital communications strategy, including social media channels, e-newsletters, and website content, ensuring consistent voice and brand alignment
• Provide executive oversight and staff support to the FVMA Political Action Committee, including compliance, fundraising strategy, and coordination with legislative counsel
• Actively engage with the Veterinary Medical Association Executives (VMAE) network to stay current on best practices in association management and peer benchmarking

Executive Board Support

• Serve as the principal resource and advisor to the Executive Board and its committees in developing and executing effective strategies
• Support the ongoing recruitment, orientation, and stewardship of board members
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Board president to ensure productive meetings, timely information sharing, and compliance with bylaws and applicable nonprofit regulations
• Provide leadership support for strategic planning and the development of organizational policy; staff key board committees as needed
• Ensure Executive Board members are informed of and fulfill their fiscal responsibilities

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• Seven or more years of progressively responsible professional experience
• Five or more years of proven leadership experience in health care, business, or the veterinary industry
• Demonstrated experience managing a budget of at least $2 million and a team of at least 10
• Experience working with a membership or trade association
• Familiarity with legislative and regulatory advocacy
• Experience reporting to or serving on a board of directors
• Undergraduate degree required; MBA, JD, or DVM a plus
• Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation preferred or in progress

The FVMA offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience (base salary ranging from $170,000-$200,000), including an annual performance bonus determined by the Board of Governors based on overall job performance and association outcomes. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan.

APPLICATION AND INTERVIEW PROCESS

Qualified candidates are invited to submit the following materials for confidential consideration: (1) a chronological resume, (2) a cover letter addressing your specific experience leading membership growth and advocacy in an association setting, and (3) your salary expectations. These materials help us assess written communication skills and organizational fit prior to any interviews. Please email your application to: FVMA.ED@FVMA.org

Pre-screened candidates will be invited to initial video interviews with select members of the FVMA Search Committee. Second-round interviews will follow for finalists.