American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers
Application
Details
Posted: 05-Nov-24
Location: St. Joseph, Michigan
Type: Full Time
Categories:
Executive Director/CEO
Required Education:
4 Year Degree
Location: St. Joseph, Michigan
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) is a global professional organization focused on advancing agricultural and biological engineering. Established in December 1907 at the University of Wisconsin–Madison under its original name, the American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE), ASABE is now headquartered in St. Joseph, Michigan. Today, the Society serves approximately 7,500 members across more than 100 countries. ASABE fulfills several key roles, including facilitating the exchange of research through conferences, scholarly journals, and a Society magazine; establishing industry standards; and offering networking opportunities for members. With 25 staff, ASABE operates on an annual budget of $4M.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Executive Director serves as the Chief Executive Officer for ASABE and its Foundation. Reporting to the elected President and appointed by the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director is responsible for the overall success of the Society. Key focus areas include developing relationships with key constituencies and affiliated organizations, assisting Board members and volunteers, public outreach, and supporting the elected President, who serves as the official spokesperson for the Society. The Executive Director promotes the Society’s image by engaging with outside groups, building relationships, and advancing global engagement activities.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Visionary Leadership: Provide forward-thinking leadership aligned with the needs of the Society and its members, in collaboration with elected leaders.
Relationship Management: Maintain and foster effective internal and external relationships to enhance the Society’s position and its members in accordance with organizational policies and objectives.
Board Relations: Cultivate a strong and transparent working relationship with the Board of Trustees and ensure open communication about the Society’s conditions and operations. Provide recommendations on present and long-term directions and needs.
Staff and Program Management: Direct and coordinate the staff, programs, and activities to ensure the Society’s objectives and visions are attained, member needs are met, and constructive growth occurs.
Financial Management: Create, propose, and manage an annual budget while ensuring the proper protection and oversight of all Society assets. Explore and identify new sources of revenue.
Meeting Attendance: Attend all Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Trustees meetings as a non-voting ex-officio member. Additionally, participate in major ASABE conferences and represent ASABE at relevant events.
Policy Formulation: Recommend and participate in the formulation of new policies, make decisions within existing policies as approved by the Board, and implement these policies.
Foundation Support: Execute decisions and policies on behalf of the Foundation Board of Trustees, actively supporting fundraising activities.
Council and Committee Liaison: Serve as a liaison to councils and committees, ensuring their decisions and recommendations are forwarded to the Board for approval.
Organizational Structure: Create and maintain an efficient headquarters staff structure, with emphasis on addressing upcoming vacancies. Manage hiring, evaluations, promotions, terminations, and employment benefits and conditions.
Contract Negotiation: Negotiate and execute contracts and commitments as authorized on behalf of the Board of Trustees.
Special Initiatives: Facilitate special initiatives important to the Society.
Additional Responsibilities: Accept other responsibilities as directed by the President or the Board of Trustees.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree.
Minimum 7 years of relevant experience in non-profit management, with a track record of engagement and positive outcomes in personnel and financial management.
Demonstrated leadership that balances vision and practical management.
Demonstrated leadership style that cultivates a supportive workplace, balancing staff autonomy with accountability. Committed to fostering a positive team culture.
Financial acumen; a strong understanding of non-profit organizations and their financial management and potential.
Proven ability to plan, organize, and implement projects and activities.
Proven success in implementing new technologies that enhance operational efficiencies and benefit the organization.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for serving the Society, public, and members.
Previous experience working with professionals in engineering, agriculture, biology, or other sciences considered a plus.
The position requires a blend of on-site commitment in the St. Joseph, MI office and flexibility to travel, including international travel, as required.
Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience.
ABOUT ST. JOSEPH, MICHIGAN
St. Joseph, Michigan, is a beautiful lakeside community along Lake Michigan. Known for its world-class beaches, the city has a renowned art and dining scene. Families are drawn to St. Joseph for its aesthetic charm but also for its highly regarded public school system, which supports a strong, family-friendly environment. St. Joseph has more than 20 miles of public trails ideal for hiking and biking. Conveniently located, St. Joseph is 15 miles north of South Bend, Indiana, and about 90 miles east of Chicago, Illinois—making it an accessible getaway or commuter haven for those looking to balance city access with a peaceful, small-town lifestyle.
SEARCH PROCESS
The search for Executive Director of ASABE is being conducted by Tuft & Associates. Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to Tuft & Associates:
