June 26, 2010

Overview of Position:

To lead statewide trade association representing a diverse membership of retail merchants to preserve and enhance a vital retail industry by providing a unified voice for retailers in Minnesota; taking a leadership position in the development of public policy and regulatory measures that impact retail business; enhancing the public image of the retail industry; developing and executing strategies to grow and retain membership; and providing information, services and support to its members.

 Key Responsibilities:  

• Provide vision and leadership to the strategic and day-to-day operations of the association including identifying and maximizing operational efficiencies;
• Develop and manage annual budget as approved by the Board of Directors and perform all administrative duties and supervision of staff;
• Implement and direct statewide membership recruitment and retention strategies to grow the association and MnRA brand including development and management of member benefits and services programs;
• Work with MnRA Board of Directors and Legislative Committee to develop public policy positions and manage strategy to advance the retail community's agenda at the state legislature, executive branch and other regulatory bodies;
• Serve as primary spokesperson for MnRA and the retail industry with government, policymakers and the media;
• Identify and direct MnRA's participation in business coalitions or other stakeholder groups;
• Develop, draft or supervise regular and timely communications (via multiple channels and tools) to members to update on relevant news, legislative/regulatory action and other industry activity;
•  Execute the goals and objectives of the board of directors and provide regular updates as outlined in the bylaws and directed by the board chair;
• Serve as Treasurer of the MnRA-affiliated political action committee - Minnesota Retail Political Advocacy Fund;
• Serve as chief compliance officer and track, file and report all applicable lobbying and political activity disclosure on behalf of the association and its affiliated PAC as required by law;
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the board chair. 

Accountability: The President is accountable to the MnRA Board of Directors.

Preferred Qualifications:  

• 10+ years management experience in retail, business or trade association or other membership organization;
• Strong management and supervisory skills and experience; Results oriented self-starter with entrepreneurial spirit and strong business acumen;
• Ability to analyze complex issues and interpret impact to members;
• Strong understanding of politics and the legislative process;
• Highly effective oral and written communication skills to broad and multiple audiences;
• Consensus builder and ability to be a strong advocate and influence decision makers in multiple settings;
• Demonstrates leadership ability in strategizing and coalition building;
• Demonstrates effectiveness and experience in association management and managing a volunteer board of directors;
• Professional demeanor;
• Bachelor's Degree required;
• Masters Degree, J.D. or other advanced degree preferred.

 Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume by July 16, 2010:

By Mail:

Or, Electronically:

Questions should be submitted to:

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