The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce (KACC) is Nebraska’s third-largest chamber and a leading business advocate and convener in Buffalo County, serving as the unified voice for commerce and community advancement in the Kearney region. Founded in 1908 and representing approximately 900 member businesses and organizations, KACC is 5-Star Accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce - a distinction achieved by only a small percentage of chambers nationwide. Its mission centers on promoting business growth, workforce development, leadership cultivation, and quality-of-life initiatives that position the Kearney area for sustained economic vitality. 

The President & CEO (CEO) reports to the Chair of the Board of Directors, leads a team of 5,  and serves as KACC’s chief executive and administrative officer. In partnership with the Board, the CEO advances the organization’s strategic direction, ensures effective implementation of board-approved priorities, and maintains accountability for operational performance and financial stewardship. The CEO oversees day-to-day operations, leads and develops the professional team, supports volunteer leadership, and ensures that programs, services, and advocacy efforts deliver clear and measurable value to members and the broader business community. The role also serves as the primary spokesperson and visible ambassador for the KACC, representing its interests with business leaders, community partners, and public officials. 

A bachelor’s degree is required. A graduate degree in Business, Public Administration, or other discipline is preferred. However, any combination of advanced education, training, or lived and learned experience will be valued and considered. 
 
The ideal candidate must have at least 8 years of progressive leadership experience and may come from a variety of backgrounds such as:  serving as the top executive within a progressive and comparably-sized Chamber of Commerce, association, nonprofit, economic development or related business organization; experience as a “#2” or other senior level executive at a larger like enterprise as noted above; or an executive from a complex private or public sector entity.  
An Institute for Organization Management (IOM) graduate or Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) designation received or in progress is valued but not required. 

To request a full position profile, please email KACC@Waverly-Partners.com.

About Waverly Partners

WAVERLY PARTNERS is a national retained executive search firm founded in 2001 and part of Ward Howell International, a global network of search consultants located in over 30 offices in 22 countries. Ward Howell serves multinational companies, local corporations, mid-sized companies as well as government agencies and law firms. WAVERLY PARTNERS functions as Ward Howell’s nonprofit search practice with clients that include chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, trade associations, cultural arts and human service agencies.

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