Chief Executive Officer at San Diego Association of Realtors – San Diego, California

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.

Essential Duties

The following reflects the essential duties for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities of this job at any time. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations.

Organizational Operations

Oversee the day-to-day operations of SDAR in accordance with by-laws, policies, and Board directivesEstablish and implement operational policies, procedures, and systems to ensure effective execution of Association activitiesReview operational and financial performance against established objectives and take corrective action when neededEnsure organizational resources are aligned to support strategic priorities

Strategic Planning & Governance Support

Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement long-term strategic plans consistent with the Association’s missionProvide advice, guidance, and recommendations to the Board on major initiatives, organizational risks, and opportunitiesEnsure the Board, Executive Committee, and Officers are fully informed of SDAR conditions and key issuesAttend all Board of Directors and Executive Committee meetings as an ex officio, nonvoting member

Financial Management & Asset Protection

Oversee financial operations to ensure fiscal stability and sustainabilityDevelop annual budgets for review and approval by the Budget and Asset Committee and Board of DirectorsEnsure appropriate safeguarding and administration of all SDAR funds, physical assets, intellectual property, and recordsOversee fundraising efforts and ensure compliance with applicable financial regulations and reporting requirements

Advocacy & External Relations

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 rightsServe as a primary liaison to Local, State (C.A.R.), and National (N.A.R.) AssociationsTravel to C.A.R., N.A.R., and other industry meetings as requested on behalf of the AssociationServe on State and National committees when such service benefits SDAR

Member Engagement & Value

Build and maintain strong relationships with SDAR membersEnsure delivery of meaningful member value through education, events, advocacy, and communicationsOversee member communications, including newsletters, mailings, website content, and public announcements

Staff Leadership

Establish and maintain effective communication systems for staff, volunteers, and membersRecruit, hire, orient, train, motivate, and retain employeesOversee and conduct performance evaluations; serve as a mentor for leadershipApprove promotions and terminations in accordance with SDAR policyMaintain competitive and compliant salary and benefits structures

Compliance & Risk Management

Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, ethical standards, and REALTOR® Core StandardsMaintain SDAR’s charter and standing with governing bodiesOversee investigations, negotiations, and due diligence related to mergers, joint ventures, acquisitions, or major asset transactions with Board approvalNegotiate and execute contracts within Board-authorized limits and approved budgetsMaintain official records, including Board minutes, legal documents, and historical filesEnsure security and confidentiality of membership records, mailing lists, and sensitive documents

Qualifications and Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferredMinimum of 10 years of executive leadership experience, preferably in a membership-based, nonprofit, or trade association environmentPrior experience working within the real estate industryPrior experience in public speakingDemonstrated experience working with a Board of DirectorsStrong background in financial management, organizational leadership, and strategic planningExcellent communication and relationship management skillsWillingness and ability to travel regularly for Association businessProficiency with Microsoft Office