Position Summary  

The Leadership Associate, Chapters provides administrative support to the governing bodies of APA’s Chapters and the Chapter President’s Council (CPC). Daily contact to deliver information, services and resources that enable Chapter leaders to successfully deliver value to APA members is a hallmark of this role.  

Critical Outcomes  

• All 47 APA Chapters receive high-quality administrative support for activities that create meaningful experiences for Chapter members, and which advance the mission and strategic goals of APA.
• The activities of the Chapter Presidents Council are coordinated to ensure timeliness, consistency, and a positive volunteer experience. 
• A strong network exists among Chapters, and between other parts of APA at the national and component level that stand to benefit from local Chapter networks.  

Core Responsibilities  

• Support daily operations of Chapter officers, including advising and delivering administrative and other resources for successful volunteer execution of conference and budget planning, program development, membership recruitment and retention efforts, and professional development activities. 
• Ensure access to monthly membership rosters and provide customer service to Chapter leaders on membership-related inquiries (e.g., requests for customized membership reports, inquiries about membership trends, maintaining member data).  
• Support networks of members at the chapter level (e.g., legislative advocacy, or Equity, Diversity and Inclusion programs), with successful communication and execution of goals that advance APA strategy and build community. 
• Support the development and maintenance of Chapter websites on APA’s web hosting platform. 
• Ensure access to quarterly financial reports and provide customer service to Chapter leaders on financial processes and inquiries.  
• Ensure that Chapter and section volunteer contact information is continuously updated in APA databases.
• Maintain Chapter Presidents Council grants, awards, and performance reporting programs.
• Handle logistics and support for meetings of the Chapter Presidents Council, its Executive Committee and its volunteer work groups, including scheduling, development of background materials, communications, and meeting minutes. 
• Develop and disseminate e-newsletter for Chapter leaders. 
• Implement the annual Chapter election process in a consistent, efficient manner, in cooperation with leaders and staff. 

Core Requirements 

• 4-year degree required. 
• Highly collaborative team member who works effectively with colleagues across the organization to pursue opportunities, overcome challenges and maximize impact. Models and effectively communicates organizational values and priorities. Encourages partnership around shared goals.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously, adhere to and enforce deadlines, and deliver outcomes. 
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to independently solve problems, execute tasks, and provide personalized service to a variety of people in the staff and volunteer workforce. 
• Friendly, emotionally intelligent, and approachable demeanor. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products required. Experience using customer record databases (CRM or AMS) and content management systems (CMS) desired.

How to Apply

• How do you think your previous professional or educational experiences have prepared you to be organized and ensure deadlines are met for high volume of volunteer leaders?
• Describe a time you showed strong collaboration skills.
• Salary expectations

APA COVID-19 Vaccine Policy Disclaimer 

The American Planning Association values the safety of our employees, our members, and our visitors. In support of these values, if you are selected for this job you must show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19, except when vaccination is not medically advised or violates your sincerely held religious beliefs. We strongly encourage boosters, as well.  If you are invited to join our team, you must comply with APA COVID-19 Vaccine Policy. 

APA Dynamic Office Environment 

Beginning April 2022, we’ll be shifting to a dynamic work environment that will bring those of us in the Chicagoland area together in person two days a week, Tuesday and Thursday. We’ll use this time to rekindle relationships, build new ones and connect with each other formally and informally in a way we can’t do online. The other three days can be worked remotely or in the office. 

The American Planning Association exists to elevate and unite a diverse planning profession as it helps communities, their leaders and residents anticipate and meet the needs of a changing world. Learn more at www.planning.org. 
 
APA embraces diversity and equal opportunity in our employment practices. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our impact will be.