Positioned between the Director and Lead, the Associate Director is a developing leader who manages significant, complex areas of the division while being mentored for a future Director role. They bridge the gap between long-term strategy and high-stakes execution, taking ownership of critical departments or initiatives that are key to the division's success. Their focus is on mastering operational leadership and developing strategic insight.

• Manages High-Impact Areas: Takes direct ownership of large, complex departments or oversees major, multi-faceted initiatives. They are entrusted with bringing a significant piece of the Director's strategic plan to fruition on a targeted assignment basis.

• Develops Strategic Acumen: While focused on execution, they are an active participant in the division's strategic planning process. They support the Director by analyzing challenges, researching trends, and helping to shape the 1-2 year operational plan.

• Provides Scalable Leadership: Their role adapts to the needs of the division. They may oversee a single large department that requires director-level attention or manage a portfolio of interconnected projects, providing leadership that is more extensive than a single Lead.

• Acts as a Strategic Deputy: Serves as a key partner to the Director, capable of managing major operational responsibilities and representing the division, thereby allowing the Director to maintain a focus on long-term strategy and external partnerships.

1. Functional Area Proficiency: Demonstrates extensive knowledge, advanced education, and deep practical expertise within the assigned division and related functional areas.

2. Strategic Leadership: Demonstrated capacity to lead, motivate, and guide teams, encompassing delegation, constructive feedback, and fostering a positive and productive environment.

3. Core Competencies: Strong proficiency in project management, performance management, conflict resolution, strategic thinking, interpersonal relationships, networking, mentoring, and adaptability.

4. Exceptional Communication Skill: Highly developed written and verbal communication skills, including active listening and the capacity to adjust communication styles for diverse audiences. Upholding professional business etiquette is paramount when engaging with members and external organizations

1. Commitment: 8-16 hours a week (Varies based on event cycles and organizational priorities)

2. Officer Engagements: Participate in monthly one-on-one meetings with an assigned Officer.

3. Meeting Participation & Accountability: Attend all internal organizational meetings as scheduled, providing timely notification for any absences. Regardless of attendance, review meeting summaries and ensure completion of assigned action items to maintain operational continuity.

4. Assignment-Specific Responsibilities:

   • Conduct monthly one-on-one meetings with each department head

     • Or host a monthly department meeting

   • Submit a monthly expense report.

   • Provide a quarterly finance report.

5. Presence: Local Associate Directors are expected to have a regular presence at the office and online. Distant Associate Directors are expected to be present online and on occasion fly to Atlanta.

1. Commitment: 8-10 hours per day

2. Leadership Support: Provide active support and guidance to Leads and staff during events.

3. Event Presence: When available, Associate Directors are expected to either:

   • Oversee and direct event operations in the event operations center, collaborating with fellow directors and the event operations team.

   • Maintain a visible presence within convention spaces, engaging with members as an organizational representative and with staff as operational leadership.

4. Schedule Submission: Submit a tentative event schedule and time-off requests a minimum of eight weeks prior to the event. All revisions must be finalized no later than four weeks before the event date.

1. Age: Individuals must be 18 years of age or older.

2. Conflict of Interest: Leads must disclose any leadership positions with any other community based community based organizations that produce annual conventions.

3. Application Process: Applicants are required to pass 2 interviews:

   1. Interview with (2) Directors

   2. Interview with (1) Officer

4. Background Check: Successful completion of a background check, as required by organizational policy, is necessary to protect the safety of individuals, safeguard organizational assets, and uphold the integrity and reputation of the organization as a tax-exempt charitable entity.

5. Agreements: Applicants must complete and sign the following agreements to be considered active.

   1. FWA Volunteer Agreement (Required for all Volunteers & Dedicated Volunteers)

   2. FWA Dedicated Volunteer Policies Agreement (Required for all Dedicated Volunteers)

   3. FWA Confidentiality Agreement (Required for all Dedicated Volunteers)

   4. FWA Conflict of Interest Disclosure (Annual requirement for Officers, Directors, and Leads)