Job Title: Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer

Employer: American Council of Engineering Companies of
Minnesota (ACEC/MN)

Location: St. Paul, MN

Salary Range: $150K – $190K, Salary is commensurate with
experience and negotiable.

Type: Full Time Salaried (Exempt)

Reports to: Board of Directors

About ACEC/MN

ACEC/MN is a statewide trade association affiliated with the national American Council of Engineering Companies. Together, these organizations advocate for a vibrant engineering industry by promoting business and legislative interests, and by providing tools and resources for professional and organizational growth.

Position Overview

The American Council of Engineering Companies of Minnesota (ACEC/MN) is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization in advancing the business interests of consulting engineering firms across Minnesota. As the business voice for over 150 member firms employing more than 7,500 professionals, ACEC/MN provides advocacy, business resources, and professional development to support its members' success.

The Executive Director will oversee day-to-day operations, staff, consultants, and strategic initiatives in alignment with ACEC/MN’s mission, vision, and values. Key responsibilities include legislative advocacy, leadership development, member recruitment and retention, stakeholder engagement, financial oversight, and program execution. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors to implement the organization’s strategic priorities.

The role also includes a strong partnership with the Engineering Education Foundation of America (EEFA), a separate 501(c)(3) entity, to advance joint efforts in scholarships, STEM outreach, and workforce development.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, public administration, communications, or a related field
• Proven experience in nonprofit professional or association management
• Excellent people skills and proven ability to develop and maintain professional relationships
• Strong interpersonal skills and relationship-building capabilities
• Experience with government affairs or legislative advocacy (state and/or federal)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational, negotiation, and time management abilities
• Proficiency in financial management and familiarity with relevant accounting software
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365
• Ability to collaborate with national ACEC and peer state-level organizations
• Commitment to ACEC/MN’s mission and strategic goals

Preferred Qualifications

• Existing relationships with state government executive branch leaders, state and federal legislators, allied organizations and the Minnesota business community
• Prior experience as an Executive Director or in a similar leadership role
• Eligibility to register as a lobbyist in Minnesota
• Knowledge of Minnesota’s private and public infrastructure sectors
• Experience organizing large-scale industry events or conferences
• Master’s degree in business, political science, engineering, or related field
• Strong understanding of nonprofit governance and best management practices
• Familiarity with social media and other engagement tools

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to implement and monitor the strategic plan
• Serve as the primary liaison to EEFA, ensuring alignment on shared initiatives
• Represent ACEC/MN at key industry, legislative, and public forums

Advocacy & External Relations

• Lead the organization’s legislative and government relations efforts
• Build and maintain strong relationships with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and partner organizations
• Engage with ACEC National and other state chapters to advance mutual interests

Member Engagement & Growth

• Drive membership growth and retention through relationship-building and service delivery
• Understand and address member needs through consistent engagement and feedback
• Foster a culture of inclusion, innovation, and collaboration within the organization

Operational & Financial Management

• Oversee all aspects of organizational operations, including staff, consultants, and vendors
• Ensure sound financial management, legal compliance, and reporting
• Manage communications, marketing, and event planning to promote ACEC/MN’s mission and services

Additional Expectations

• Regular travel within Minnesota and occasional travel nationally
• Regular presence at ACEC/MN’s St. Paul office and at key events
• Confidential handling of all applicant information as permitted by law

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.