Business Network Director at YPO

POSITION PURPOSE
The Business Network Director (BND) is a business content expert, strategic thought leader and business operations manager for the assigned Business Network. The director partners with the senior leadership of the Business Network’s Executive Committee on identifying new member value and engagement avenues, leading strategic formulation and planning, and the execution thereof. In addition, the Business Network Director works collaboratively with YPO members and associates across the organization to develop, design, market and manage network opportunities on behalf of YPO, and provide unique solutions to address improved member retention and engagement.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic advisor to Network Chair and the wider Board in building and developing an engaged global community around the respective Business Network.
• Act as key guide and advisor to the Network Chair in the development and execution of the Network’s global strategy and annual goals. Ensure alignment with overall YPO organizational goals. Responsible for the execution of approved strategy.
• Collaboratively focus on creating global learning initiatives, generating worldwide engagement opportunities, and delivering exceptional value to the YPO Network members.
• Responsible for the Network’s financial, relevance, and engagement health metrics. Forecasts and manages the Business Network operational budget.
• Collaborate with networks and regions on appropriate network integration to enhance member participation in specific global regions.
• Oversee development of a world class virtual community platform to service members of business network(s), including only-in-YPO content, dynamic discussion board and more.
• Partner with the Operations Director, Business Networks for strategic alignment with the Business Networks Council and the Networks Committee on governance and goals to ensure alignment across Networks.
• Collaborate with Global Brand, Marketing & Communications on the development of an effective and efficient communications plan then implement with both the business network leadership and others across the management team.
• Liaise with Global Events for the delivery of high-quality business network events.
• Manage and respond to day-to-day requests from business network chairs, the assigned business network members, and management team.
• Ensure succession plans are in place for the named positions on the executive committee and that every officer is onboarded, trained, and supported for the role in the business network.
• Facilitate sharing of best practices across Networks as well as inter-department sharing.
• Develop and review associated content and materials for global webinars and in-person events. May support the development and execution of relevant functional workshops.
• Support relevant international or executive committee portfolios in reaching committee goals, including providing relevant data and reports and participation in periodic calls and meetings.
• Support annual renewals process with personal outreach.
• Lead the delivery of the highest quality customer service to the Business Network across all global regions.

SKILLS

• Effectively able to lead, build, and manage a high performing and global team.  
• Effectively manage trade-off decisions, prioritize competing opportunities, balance member and internal stakeholder needs with business priorities, manage cross functional expectations, and clearly articulate the rationale behind decisions.   
• Connector of people, programs, and information to integrate, influence, partner, and foster strategic trusted advisor relationships with members and all levels of the organization.   
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and change, confidently offering creative solutions and managing conflict, in a frequently changing environment while bringing a sense of calm to the team, leading them through high priority and impactful engagements.  
• Growth mindset with a continuous curiosity to understand the why, challenge the status quo, and constantly seek to improve and refine programs, projects, processes, relationships, and culture in order to support the strategic goals of the organization.   
• Analytical with high judgement, structured thinking, and problem-solving skills to ensure solutions for the highest opportunity areas. Creative problem solver with a passion for innovation and ability to develop new programs and processes. Anticipates stakeholder needs and delivers with clarity.  
• Superior ability to communicate and develop positive relationships across boundaries to align on solutions and build meaningful relationships with all levels of associates, members and vendors. Adaptable, empathetic, reliable, and ability to present effectively.  
• Maintain a high ethical work standard and apply discretion regarding confidential information.  
• Serve as a One Team ambassador by fostering cross-departmental collaboration and information sharing and goal alignment.  
• Possess a distinct global mindset, sensitive to local and international customs and protocols with a strong grasp of global business, economic and political issues.  

EXPERIENCE/BACKGROUND

• 10+ years of experience in account management or strategy or management consultant role.
• Background in start-ups/entrepreneurship, non-profit organizations, or hospitality, ideally paired with experience in a senior operational role.
• Experience in establishing, building, and maintaining professional relationships with C-level executives and organizations of influence, as well as in working with a Board of Directors.
• Experience in an association or membership organization, specifically involved with membership, governance, marketing, social media management or events.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee and collaborate with staff and volunteers.
• Strong financial management skills, including budget preparation, analysis, decision making and reporting. Contract management and execution are highly preferred.
• Experience in developing global events and/or global learning programs preferred.

EDUCATION/TRAINING/CERTIFICATION

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Certified Management Professional (CMP) Certification a plus.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification a plus.
• Negotiation or dispute resolution, as well as coaching, certification or training preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work flexible and/or extended hours as needed to accommodate members and team members in multiple time zones.
• Willingness and ability to travel, domestically and internationally, without restrictions, approximately 20-25% per year.