The Senior Association Executive Director serves as the chief staff officer for the Association and its Foundation. This leadership role is responsible for strategy development, partnerships, revenue growth through grants and corporate sponsorships, operational excellence, and organizational culture.
The position is highly relationship-driven and outward-facing, focusing on expanding the organization’s impact across industry, academia, regulatory communities, and healthcare providers. The role also ensures strong governance practices and financial stewardship.
The Senior Association Executive Director also serves as an ex officio advisor to the Institute for Dental Safety and Science to ensure alignment across education initiatives, research translation, and industry engagement.
Lead the development and execution of a multi-year strategic plan aligned with the organization’s mission, growth objectives, and impact metrics.
Monitor developments within the industry to ensure the association provides leadership in developing and communicating relevant programs and resources.
Develop and maintain executive-level relationships with strategic partners.
Serve as a primary spokesperson and represent the organization at national meetings, media engagements, and strategic forums.
Advise the Association and Foundation Boards by providing clear reporting, recommendations, and action plans to support informed decision-making and governance.
In collaboration with the Association’s Foundation, develop and execute a comprehensive revenue strategy that includes grants, corporate sponsorships, institutional partnerships, and philanthropic contributions.
Lead grant proposal development and submission processes.
Oversee preparation and organization of grant submission materials.
Monitor grant execution and ensure reporting deliverables for grants and government contracts are completed.
Ensure fiscal integrity across the organization including annual budgets, monthly financial reporting, audits, grant compliance, and legal obligations related to nonprofit structures such as 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3).
Maintain policies and procedures aligned with nonprofit best practices and organizational standards.
Manage staff members, contractors, and consultants, including oversight of consultant agreements.
Oversee the organization’s education strategy in collaboration with education support staff.
Ensure professional development programs align with the organization’s mission and strategic objectives.
Support delivery of educational programs including online courses, live events, and continuing education materials.
Lead internal and external communications and public relations initiatives.
Oversee membership marketing, member services, and member benefit programs.
Ensure communications effectively support the needs of the organization’s membership and professional community.
Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree and/or Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation strongly preferred.
Minimum of five years of experience in oral healthcare environments.
At least five years of association management experience is highly preferred.
Demonstrated experience with nonprofit budget management including budget preparation, financial analysis, reporting, and strategic decision-making.
Experience in membership marketing and retention within nonprofit organizations.
Proven fundraising and grant management experience.
Strong strategic planning capabilities including program development and project leadership.
Demonstrated ability to develop partnerships and collaborate with strategic stakeholders.
Knowledge of continuing education provider recognition standards.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency with web-based platforms and modern technology tools.
Ability to remain calm under pressure while maintaining a positive and professional attitude.
Strong computer and database management skills. Experience with website management, association management systems, and event registration systems is preferred.
This is a fully remote position working with a core team located in the Atlanta area.
The position may require travel of up to 50 percent annually.
The role requires scheduling flexibility, including the ability to work evenings and weekends when necessary to support events, meetings, and organizational priorities.
The Association for Dental Safety (ADS) is a professional community of educators, researchers, clinicians, consultants, and industry representatives dedicated to improving safety and infection control within oral healthcare.
The organization focuses on education, research, and practical resources designed to improve compliance with infection prevention and safety practices. ADS provides an extensive library of resources including publications, checklists, and toolkits to help dental professionals deliver safe and effective care.
Educational programs include both online learning and live training designed to advance knowledge and skills for dental professionals.
ADS was founded in 1984 as the Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) and formally incorporated as a nonprofit in 1985. In 2024, the organization rebranded to the Association for Dental Safety to better reflect its mission and focus.
The organization currently operates through three related entities:
ADS (501(c)(6)) which focuses on membership and industry leadership.
ADS Foundation (501(c)(3)) which supports education and philanthropic initiatives aligned with the mission.
ADS Institute for Dental Safety and Science (501(c)(3)) which advances evidence-based education and research.
The position requires the ability to remain seated for extended periods while working on computers or attending virtual meetings.
The role may also require standing or moving for extended periods during events or on-site activities.
Occasional lifting, carrying, or moving of materials up to approximately 30 pounds may be required.
The position may involve working in a variety of environments including offices, conference venues, and indoor or outdoor event spaces.
Frequent communication with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders is required, along with regular use of computers and electronic equipment.
Etherio is an organization focused on creating partnerships, experiences, and connections that support growth and success for clients and their communities.
The company provides event, meeting, and membership experience solutions for corporate and association clients.
Etherio supports professional growth for its team members by encouraging collaboration, learning opportunities, and meaningful partnerships that help individuals accelerate their careers.
The company has received multiple industry recognitions including being listed for 18 consecutive years among the CMI 25 – North America’s Top 25 Meeting and Incentive Companies.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) retirement plan with company matching.
Generous paid time off.
Flexible and hybrid work scheduling options.
Etherio is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity employment.
The company does not discriminate based on race, creed, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable laws.
Applicants who require accessibility assistance during the application process may contact hr@etherio.com.
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