PRESIDENT
Software Association of Oregon (SAO)

SAO is Oregon’s largest regional trade association focused on technology companies. Founded in 1989, the SAO has about 600 members and is widely regarded as the focal point for one of Oregon’s leading industry clusters, which generates more than $5 billion in annual wages. By itself and through working partnerships with other private businesses and public agencies, the SAO is dedicated to further increasing the growth and profitability of technology-related businesses, for the benefit of its members and the larger Oregon community.

As part of its overall mission – “Start, Move and Grow” -- the SAO offers a wide range of professional development programs, events and networking opportunities. SAO members enjoy a one-stop shop for discounted services and employee benefits as well as exposure across the software industry cluster to service providers and seasoned industry professionals at all levels.

SAO also provides the industry cluster a voice at the state, local and federal level via our Advocacy Committee in concert with AOI, WSA and other regional trade groups.

SAO is further committed to a cluster-based focus on education and workforce development through its SuperQuest high school teacher training program; a strategic partnership with the Business Education Compact that offers internship programs to our members; and its recently expanded Oregon Training Network (OTN) initiative that meets the specialized IT training needs of local companies.

Description: The President is responsible for participating with the Executive Committee and Board of Directors as they define the strategy and objectives of SAO. By leading, organizing and motivating the Association’s many volunteers and its small paid staff, the President develops plans to lead a wide variety of programs and initiatives under the organization’s mission of “Start, Move and Grow.” The President starts and sustains activities, serves as the key spokesperson, and represents the industry to the public, news media, business communities, governmental agencies and educational institutions. In addition the President is responsible for raising the funds to maintain financial stability and execute the strategy.

Major Responsibilities: The President is responsible for evolving and implementing objectives identified by SAO’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Pragmatic action plans, developed and executed by the President to deliver strategic results and operating results, are supported through consistent partnering with the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Primary areas of major responsibility include:

• Fundraising. The President is responsible for ensuring that adequate funding is obtained to meet SAO objectives. SAO’s multiple sources of funding currently include membership dues (both new and retained); sponsorship opportunities; the development and execution of successful programs, forums and events; educational training; various member benefit programs: and other sources that support SAO’s goals, including the SAO Foundation, a 501©3 charitable funding opportunity.

• Operational Excellence. The President is responsible for creating and managing sound operating practices and ensuring adequate funding of all SAO commitments. The President oversees accounting, authorizes expenditures, reviews financial reports and guarantees that the Board is informed of current and projected financial conditions.

• Leadership. The President is responsible for being the organization’s most prominent and articulate advocate for the benefits and value of SAO activities and membership. This will be accomplished through/ direct relationships established at the highest levels (e.g. C-level technology executives, education and government). The President will proactively seek public speaking opportunities; work closely with leaders in business, government, higher education, research and the technology industry on common objectives; and build effective partnerships with potential allies and mission-related organizations.

• Management. The President will effectively manage a small paid staff, and oversee the recruitment and effective use of volunteers. This includes building, motivating, and retaining a team of top-quality professionals in both paid and unpaid roles; ensuring that functional responsibilities of the entire staff are clear, prioritized and consistently aligned with Board expectations; and completing basic performance management practices on a timely basis.

• Advocacy. The President will oversee the activities of the SAO Advocacy committee. Responsibilities include effective communication with the Board and membership on relevant legislation and policy proposals affecting the industry; development of an effective advocacy agenda to further the organization’s key objectives; and developing good relations between key legislative and regulatory officials, the SAO Board and SAO members.

Candidate’s Requirements:

• Successful sales/fund-raising experience
• Executive record with credible execution, solid operating results, and staff management
• Passion for the technology industry that sustains a 5 to 10 year commitment
• Understanding of financial management and effective operating principles.
• Advocate with pragmatic vision that resonates well in a variety of environments

USEFUL PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

• Experience guiding successful performance of staff and volunteer resources.
• Experience in developing and working with a high-performance board.
• Sales of complex products or services.
• Successful entrepreneurial efforts.
• Familiarity with the technology industry and the federal and state laws within which it operates.
• A distinguished record of community involvement including a wide variety of well-executed leadership roles.
• A personal style that wears well and is trusted.