MetroWest Chamber Advertises for CEO

MetroWest Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bonnie Biocchi announced last month, she was leaving, after 5 years with the Framingham-based organization.

This week, the Chamber posted a job description and began accepting applications for her replacement.

Biocchi accepted a position at Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/Greater Worcester and will be stepping down in mid-August 2015.

The job of CEO is responsible for the “overall operation of the chamber including, but not limited to; strategic planning, policy development, staff management and development, financial management, market development and member/public relations.”

The main responsibility is to “develop programs and initiatives to retain, expand and market the Chamber and its membership.”

One of the biggest initiatives Biocchi introduced was the Taste of MetroWest, now an annual event highlighting the best restaurants and food businesses in the area. It draws more than 2,000 individuals to the Sheraton in Framingham.

Other responsibilities of the CEO include:

• 1. PLANNING: In conjunction with the Board of Directors, responsible for planning and organizing the activities of the Chamber so as to advance the economic, cultural and civic welfare of the region. Advises the Board on the development of the strategic plan with the assistance of the staff and volunteer leaders.
• 2. POLICY: In consultation with the Board of Directors, plans long range policies for achievement of important community and economic development goals. Reviews legislation, regulations and economic development proposals, liaisons with public officials and advocates for the needs of business at the local, state or federal level. Upon approval of the Board, works with staff and/or committees for implementation and communication of Board advocacy positions.
• 3. STAFF MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT: Responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, supervision, performance management, of all paid staff. Also responsible for supervision of committees and coordination of volunteers.
• 4. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT: Responsible for preparation of annual budget in conjunction with the Finance Committee and the Board of Directors. Approves all expenditures included in approved budget. Adjust staff salaries as approved by the Executive Committee. Oversees preparation of monthly financial reports. Supervises maintenance and increase in membership investments to support strategic plan.
• 5. MEMBER/PUBLIC RELATIONS: Responsible for all communications to the members and the general public. Represents the Chamber at various meetings and functions. Maintains close liaison with all groups in the area. Makes or causes to be made public addresses or appearances before governmental hearings and other functions.

The Chamber is looking for individuals with a a minimum of a Bachelor degree required and three years of Chamber or equivalent experience required.

The new CEO needs to be a “dynamic individual who can work effectively with people at all levels in a complex environment.”

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest, a resume, and salary requirements to chair@metrowest.org no later than July 31.

The MetroWest Chamber serves the communities of Ashland, Bellingham Dover, Franklin, Framingham, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Hudson, Marlborough, Medfield, Medway, Milford, Millis, Natick, Northborough, Sherborn, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, Wellesley, Westborough and Weston.

The Chamber’s offices are located on Route 9 in Framingham.