Executive Director

Audience Development Strategies (ADS) is a growing association management and events firm supporting professional and trade associations across the country. Our team handles everything from membership and events to governance, marketing, advocacy coordination and revenue strategy — helping organizations thrive while giving our staff the resources to do their best work.

We’re looking for an Association Executive Director / Account Manager to serve as the strategic lead for one or more client organizations. This is a high-impact, relationship-driven role for someone who enjoys ownership, variety, and working alongside a collaborative team of specialists in events, marketing, finance and membership.

• Serve as the primary point of contact and strategic partner for assigned association clients
• Support boards and committees, including agenda development, meeting facilitation and follow-up
• Oversee membership growth, engagement and retention initiatives
• Lead planning and execution of conferences, webinars and other programs (with support from ADS event staff)
• Manage budgets, financial reporting and revenue strategies alongside our finance team
• Coordinate communications, marketing and sponsorship efforts with ADS specialists
• Help identify opportunities for growth, new programs and improved member value
• Maintain strong relationships with volunteer leaders, partners and industry stakeholders

• Experienced in association management, nonprofit leadership, client services or a similar role
• Comfortable working with volunteer boards and navigating multiple priorities
• Organized, proactive and able to move projects forward independently
• Strong communicator who can build trust quickly
• Strategic thinker who also enjoys rolling up your sleeves
• Energized by variety — no two days at ADS look the same

CAE or CMP credentials are a plus but not required.

We’re a close-knit, high-energy team that believes professional work should be meaningful, collaborative and sustainable.

Our Executive Directors don’t work alone — they’re supported by specialists in:

• Events
• Membership
• Marketing, Design & Strategy
• Finance
• Administration
• Sales & sponsorship
• Advocacy/Policy Analysis

We invest in professional development, encourage new ideas and give our team real ownership of their work.

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Hybrid work environment with a collaborative office space in Farmington
• Health, dental and vision coverage
• Generous PTO plus company holiday schedulessption>
• Professional development support (including CAE/CMP)
• Opportunities to grow with a rapidly expanding firm
• A positive, drama-free culture that values initiative and humor

At ADS, you’re not just managing tasks — you’re helping industries connect, learn and move forward. Your work directly supports communities, professionals and causes that make a difference.

• 3+ Years Association Experience
• Excellent Communication Skills
• Ability to Work on Site in Farmington, CT