President & COO

Our executive search firm has been retained by an established and respected travel organization with a prominent presence in the Midwestern region. This is a wonderful opportunity to be at the forefront of a group that truly supports its members.Overview:The President & COO will actively drive the key strategies identified by the Board, and ensure the ongoing success and development of the organization. The ideal candidate will lead with authenticity, humility, and warmth to build and nurture long-lasting professional relationships. The position reports to the Board of Directors.Responsibilities:Direct development and execution of the organization's mission, values, and strategic goals, reflecting Midwest sensibilities—practicality, transparency, and personal connectionSteer the implementation of the Board’s strategic plan, focusing on new initiatives for member and supplier engagement, education, and operational improvementsLaunch and champion a fully developed Mentorship Program as the centerpiece of member engagement, peer-to-peer interaction, and growthFacilitate member and supplier roundtables to promote collaboration and knowledge-sharingEstablish and oversee the Supplier Advisory BoardEvaluate, implement, and communicate next-generation member communication platformsEnhance staffing, especially for education, training, and the luxury divisionDevelop new venues and formats for workshops and eventsWork in partnership with the VP and Directors to execute projects with efficiency and the organization's signature personal touchOversee budgeting, forecasting, performance evaluation, and strategic planningFoster member loyalty, facilitate onboarding and support for new members, and strengthen the collective wisdom of the organizationLead member recruitment and retention programs with an emphasis on Midwest hospitality and personalized supportPromote educational opportunities and transparent business practices including override sharingOversee supplier relationships and advocate for members in contract and commission negotiationsCollaborate actively with the Board of Directors, supporting clarity, transparency, and shared purposeWork with the Chairman of the Board to prepare and propose effective meeting agendas based on organizational needs, strategic priorities, and the Board’s planning initiatives for the next 12 monthsArrive at Board and committee meetings well-prepared, delivering clear answers and updates on unresolved issues from previous meetingsPresent new ideas and strategies that drive growth, incorporate industry trends, and reflect the unique values of the organizationBuild consensus and alignment on key priorities such as the mentorship program, new communication platforms, supplier partnerships, and enhanced education/training initiativesTake responsibility for follow-through on Board decisions, ensuring action items and strategic objectives are implemented efficientlyQualifications:At least eight years of senior executive experience in travel, hospitality, or a relevant industryProven success in collaborative leadership, strategic planning, and change managementExpertise in driving growth through innovation, education, and member-focused serviceDemonstrates patience, integrity, and active listening skills---About Bristol Associates, Inc. – Executive Search:Bristol Associates, Inc. is a boutique executive recruiting firm that specializes in highly focused, personalized searches in all verticals for the following industries: Casino Gaming, Facility and Concession, Food and Beverage, Healthcare, Hotel and Resort, Nonprofit, Restaurant, and Travel, Tourism, and Attraction.As a third-generation, family-owned business, we believe that people and connections have always been the core of our organization. We concentrate on building lasting, real relationships with clients, candidates, and within our own team. Our tenured recruiters have unrivaled experience, professional expertise, and comprehensive industry knowledge, and our ever-expanding database and long-standing, valuable contacts in our extensive network allow us to source and deliver the best talent in today's market. That's the recipe Bristol Associates has used to place executive talent with leading companies for over 55 years.