TEXAS STATE FLORISTS’ ASSOCIATION HISTORY

Since 1914 the Texas State Florists’ Association (TSFA) has been serving all branches of the floral industry including retailers, wholesalers, growers, manufacturers, brokers, shippers, importers, interior plantscapers and more. TSFA’s 400+ members are bound together by common interests and include those active in industry as well as students, retired florists, university professors and researchers.  This self-managed organization is unique among state organizations representing the floral industry having developed educational curricula for high school and college students leading to an industry certification along with continuing educational courses providing members with techniques to improve their skills.

The Texas Master Certified Florist © (TMF) and Professional Certified Florist © PCF programs are both recognized on a national level in the floral industry.

The organization also hosts showcases, demonstrations and workshops for floral industry professionals, teachers, students and anyone interested in floral design throughout the State of Texas.

TSFA is respected throughout the floral industry in Texas with an annual operating budget of over $1M, a staff of 3, a strong, engaged volunteer board that staffs a wide variety of committees, and a history of fiscal responsibility, financial success and solid relations with all stakeholders. TSFA is well positioned for further growth.

The position is on site at TSFA’s office in Leander, a suburb of Austin, TX.

THE POSITION

The new Executive Director of TSFA will report to the Board of Directors and will replace the current Executive Director who has successfully led the organization for 35 years.  The next leader will build on that solid foundation, grow the organization’s reach and membership utilizing sound financial and management skills.  The individual will oversee and implement all policies and actions under the direction of the Board of Directors and will be responsible for membership, educational programs, products, events and operations of the Association statewide and nationally.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) the following:

Executive Leadership & Management

• Serves as liaison to the Board and works closely with the Chair to set strategic direction, implement tactical plans, and inform the Board on progress;
• Oversees all events, activities and educational programs including on-site management;
• Ensures the fiscal success of the organization. Works with Board to set annual financial goals and oversees all fiscal activities, including budgeting, presenting monthly financial reports and communicating results;
• Develops strategic initiatives for membership growth and improvement in member services;
• Sustains and builds on existing relationships and partnerships and collaborates with internal and external stakeholders including members, leaders, industry representatives, statewide regulatory agencies and various committee members;
• Willingness to roll up sleeves and pitch in when needed;
• Develops clear messaging to position the organization. Serves as main spokesperson with all stakeholders and constituents that are key to TSFA’s success;
• Oversees and executes all fundraising activities including sponsorships, underwriting and grant submissions;
• Recruits new Board members and engages existing Board members;
• Represents TSFA at state and national conventions, conferences and seminars;
• Manages support staff and oversees all office functions including compliance and financial reporting, and vendor relations;
• Identifies and works with independent contractors to ensure that TSFA’s needs are met.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will be a passionate leader who has demonstrated executive experience in a nonprofit organization and has a track record of success in operational and mission-related activities.  The successful candidate has a background in membership, a personal commitment to the TSFA mission, and ability to oversee the development of new strategies for the future.

Requirements include:

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Business Administration or equivalent life experience;
• 5 or more years in senior leadership role at a nonprofit organization;
• A track record of achieving revenue growth; strong fiscal management skills;
• Experience working with Boards and Board Committees;
• Knowledge of continuing professional education and education for high school and college certifications desired;
• Knowledge of managing in a membership organization; experience in stewarding current members and attracting new ones;
• Demonstrated staff management skills;
• Solid organizational abilities with the ability to stay calm under pressure; able to delegate when appropriate or participate when needed;
• Strategic thinking and skills;
• Strong interpersonal skills; experience in fundraising and donor relations;
• Strong work ethic and ability to represent and speak on behalf of the organization;
• Strong written and oral communication skills and knowledge of social media platforms;
• Affinity for mission of TSFA and love of flowers; experience in the floral industry a plus;
• Travel required.

The current Executive Director will serve in an advisory role to assist the new Executive Director in the transition.

Salary Range: $120K- $130K

APPLICATION PROCESS

This search is being conducted by Gail Luxenberg, Tuft & Associates, Inc. Qualified candidates should submit, in confidence, a resume and a cover letter that outlines relevant personal qualifications to:

• Complete the resume submission form below, and include your resume and cover letter.
• Email your resume and cover letter to Gail Luxenberg, c/o at cbabjak@tuftassoc.com.