Benzie Area Chamber of Commerce Careers

Are you passionate about rural prosperity and ready to make a difference right here in Benzie County? Apply for an open position today. Nothing listed right now? Go ahead and send us your resume, along with a note to let us know what you're interested in and what drives you. We'll keep it on file for future opportunities. Email materials to our Director at this link.

CURRENT OPENINGS

Administrative & Member Engagement Coordinator

Benzie County Chamber of Commerce
Remote, Full-Time | $42,000/year

About the Role

We're seeking a detail-oriented and community-minded professional to serve as the operational backbone of our newly formed public-private partnership. This role is essential to our mission of driving economic vitality in Benzie County while providing you with unique exposure to economic development, public policy, and rural community building.

As our founding administrative team member, you'll work directly with the Executive Director to ensure seamless operations while building relationships with local businesses, government partners, and community stakeholders. This is an exceptional opportunity for someone who wants to understand how communities grow and thrive.

Core Responsibilities

Member & Stakeholder Relations (40%)

• Serve as primary point of contact for Chamber members and inquiries
• Process membership applications, renewals, and maintain accurate member database
• Coordinate member communications including newsletters, announcements, and event invitations
• Schedule and coordinate retention visits with member businesses
• Track member engagement and identify opportunities for deeper connection
• Maintain relationships with township officials, economic development partners, and community organizations
• Support member communications through our newsletter and social media

Operations & Administration (30%)

• Coordinate meetings with board members, partners, and stakeholders
• With Executive Director, prepare materials for board meetings, including agendas, minutes, and supporting documentation
• Handle accounts payable/receivable processing
• Maintain organized digital filing systems for contracts, agreements, and organizational records
• Process expense reimbursements and track budget expenditures
• Coordinate logistics for events, meetings, and community gatherings

Communications & Coordination (20%)

• Draft and distribute member communications, social media content, and website updates
• Track and communicate relevant grant opportunities, legislative updates, and economic development resources
• Maintain and update website content in ChamberMaster/WordPress platform
• Coordinate cross-promotion opportunities between members and community events

Project & Program Support (10%)

• Provide research and administrative support for Chamber initiatives
• Assist with grant applications and program documentation
• Coordinate with all Benzie Chamber partnership programs
• Track metrics and prepare reports on organizational activities and outcomes
• Support special projects as they emerge from strategic priorities

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

• 2-5 years of professional experience in administrative, coordination, or customer service roles
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational abilities with attention to detail and follow-through
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and/or Google Workspace
• Comfortable learning new software platforms (ChamberMaster, WordPress, Canva, project management tools)
• Self-directed with ability to work effectively in remote environment
• Genuine interest in small business, community development, or public service

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with membership organizations, chambers of commerce, or nonprofits
• Familiarity with rural Michigan communities and economies
• Experience with CRM systems, email marketing platforms, or social media management
• Background in event coordination or community engagement
• Interest in economic development, small business support, or public policy

Personal Attributes

• Warm and professional presence that reflects well on the organization
• Proactive problem-solver who anticipates needs
• Discretion and sound judgment when handling sensitive information
• Collaborative spirit and ability to build relationships across diverse stakeholders
• Flexibility and adaptability in a startup organizational environment
• Commitment to supporting rural community vitality

What We Offer

Professional Growth

• Regular interaction with business leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders
• Direct exposure to economic development strategy and rural community building
• Opportunity to learn about public-private partnerships, grant processes, and economic policy
• Mentorship from experienced Executive Director with strong networks
• Potential pathway to expanded responsibilities as organization grows
• Professional development support 

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary: $42,000
• Monthly office stipend (if/while fully remote)
• Healthcare cost allowance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Flexible work environment

Growth Trajectory

This role is designed to grow with both you and the organization. Potential development paths include:

• Membership & Business Development - Leading retention programs, developing new member services, coordinating business attraction initiatives
• Communications & Marketing - Taking ownership of organizational voice, brand development, and community storytelling
• Program Coordination - Managing specific initiatives like workforce development, housing advocacy, or small business technical assistance
• Economic Development - Deepening involvement in strategic planning, grant management, and policy work

As our first administrative hire in a brand-new organization, you'll have significant influence in shaping our culture, systems, and approach.

Location & Work Environment

This role may start fully remote and move into a co-located work setting with personal flexibility. The ideal candidate resides in or near Benzie County to facilitate in-person attendance at community events, board meetings, or member visits (estimated 2-4 times per month).

To Apply

Please complete this form to send us a PDF of your resume and a cover letter that includes:

1. Why this position speaks to you as a professional.
2. Any special skills or talents you think would support your success in this role.
3. Your favorite thing about Benzie County.

Resumes not received as PDFs or without cover letters will not be considered. Hiring period could take 60 days, so don't be concerned if you don't hear back immediately. Feel free to follow up with Jon Willow directly if you haven't been contacted within a week of applying.