Executive Search

CAI-NC Executive Director

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Position Overview

We’re seeking a dynamic leader to serve as the face and chief staff executive of the Community Associations Institute North Carolina Chapter (CAI-NC). This pivotal role combines strategic vision with hands-on management to help shape the future of homeowner and condominium associations across North Carolina. The Executive Director will lead our day-to-day operations while driving strategic initiatives that deliver value to our members and advance our mission of education and advocacy.


Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership

    • Partner with the Board to develop and execute strategic initiatives
    • Drive membership growth and engagement
    • Lead a remote team of high-performing staff and consultants
    • Oversee financial management of $600K budget

Education & Program Management

    • Direct in-person and virtual learning programs
    • Oversee major events, including Annual Conference (700+ attendees)
    • Develop and implement innovative educational initiatives

Stakeholder Engagement

    • Build strong relationships with members, partners, and sponsors
    • Represent CAI-NC at industry events and conferences
    • Collaborate with the CAI HQ organization
    • Drive membership recruitment and retention

Qualifications 

    • Bachelor’s degree required
    • CAE (Certified Association Executive) strongly preferred
    • 5+ years leadership experience in associations or nonprofits
    • Proven success in organizational leadership and staff management
    • Experience working with boards and managing fiduciary responsibilities
    • Strong track record in strategic execution
    • Experience managing remote teams a plus

The Ideal Candidate 

    • Self-motivated leader comfortable working independently
    • Excellent communicator and public speaker
    • Strategic thinker with strong execution skills
    • Financial acumen and budget management expertise
    • Tech-savvy with proficiency in MS Office and AMS platforms
    • Skilled at building and maintaining stakeholder relationships

Working Environment 

    • Remote position with flexible work arrangement
    • In-state travel: ~20 days annually
    • Out-of-state travel: ~10 nights annually
    • Both W-2 and 1099 options available

Why Join Us?

    • Lead a financially stable, high-performing organization
    • Shape the future of community associations in North Carolina
    • Work with a dedicated board and engaged membership
    • Flexible remote work environment
    • Competitive compensation package
    • Opportunity for significant impact in the industry

To Apply 

To submit your resume and cover letter, please email Elisa Pratt, MA, CAE, CVF, Executive Search Advisor, at [email protected] with “CAI-NC ED” in the subject line. See the full job description here. 

CAI-NC is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds.

 

About CAI

Founded in 1973, Community Associations Institute (CAI) and its 64 U.S. and international chapters provide information, education and resources to the homeowner leaders and professionals who govern and manage homeowners associations, condominium communities and cooperatives. CAI’s 47,000-plus members include community association board members, community managers, association management firms, and other professional companies that support common interest communities. For more information about CAI HQ, visit https://www.caionline.org/.

About CAI-NC

The Community Associations Institute North Carolina Chapter (CAI-NC) is an award-winning organization dedicated to building excellence in community associations across the state. Chartered in 1988, CAI-NC is a top-tier-sized chapter across the CAI network.

With a sophisticated infrastructure and a clear strategic focus, CAI-NC stands out for its financial stability, efficient operations, and impactful events. The chapter operates with a $600K annual budget, supported by a lean yet high-performing staff and an 11-member board of directors. CAI-NC’s Annual Conference and Expo, attracting more than 700 participants, is currently one of three annual signature learning events complemented by smaller local events across NC throughout the year. For more information about CAI-NC visit https://www.cai-nc.org/.

See the full CAI-NC Executive Director job description here.

Executive Search Testimonials

5/5
"I recently worked with Elisa on an executive search. She was hired to help fill the position I was leaving at a not-for-profit trade association. Although not directly involved in the search, I had recommended her to the board of directors. Throughout the months long process, she was thorough, very professional, and kept the directors on task. Always careful and confidential in her approach, she worked hard to deliver the best results. Our organization was very pleased with the outcome and would enthusiastically recommend her for your next executive search!"
Doug McMurry Former Executive Vice President, AGC of San Antonio
5/5
“Thanks so much for your outstanding work in assisting the MBA in finding an excellent replacement for our outgoing Executive Director. This was a very important process for us. Not only did you find an excellent replacement, but you provided us several other strong candidates to choose from, more than one of which would have also been a good choice for the position. Given the many different and strong personalities on both the search committee and the board of trustees, having multiple options was a key to success. You handled these strong personalities well and provided a strong and even-handed process.””
Todd Dominick Co-Founder, Rycon Construction, Inc
5/5
"AGC-San Antonio had the privilege of working with Elisa in our recent President Search. She was able to come in with a tight deadline and worked well with our governance and selection committees to find the best candidates. Elisa’s experience with AGC helped her guide us on the right candidates and made our experience even better. Her organization and tenacity helped us stay on track and find the right candidate for us. She has continued to follow up with the new president and the board to ensure a positive outcome for all parties. I would recommend Elisa for all associations looking for a new leader.”
Christopher M. Thiel Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Alterman