The Association for association professionals in Chicagoland

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Three Rivers Association of REALTORS® (TRAR)
Joliet, Illinois

The Three Rivers Association of REALTORS® (TRAR) is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead our 800+ member organization into its next chapter of growth and impact. This full-time, salaried executive role serves as the chief staff leader of the Association, representing and advancing the interests of REALTOR® and affiliate members across the vibrant real estate markets of Will and Grundy counties in Illinois.

The CEO works in close partnership with the Board of Directors to provide forward-thinking, agile leadership while fostering a high-performing, member-focused culture.

Position Overview

The CEO is responsible for the overall leadership and management of the Association, including:

• Strategic planning and execution
• Member engagement, retention, and services
• Financial management and budgeting
• Governance support and Board relations
• Operational leadership and staff management

This role serves as the primary ambassador of the Association, strengthening relationships with members, community stakeholders, industry partners, and the public.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of the Association’s strategic vision and initiatives
• Enhance member value through innovative programs, services, and engagement strategies
• Ensure sound financial stewardship and organizational sustainability
• Support effective governance and serve as a trusted advisor to the Board of Directors
• Oversee daily operations and lead, develop, and inspire professional staff
• Serve as the public face of the Association in community, industry, and media settings
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local, state, and national stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Core Standards

Qualifications & Leadership Profile

The ideal candidate is a collaborative, service-driven leader who brings both strategic insight and operational excellence. Key attributes include:

• Proven leadership experience in an association, nonprofit, or comparable organization
• Strong financial acumen and organizational management skills
• Exceptional communication skills, including public speaking and media engagement
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and foster member engagement
• Emotional intelligence, professionalism, and sound judgment
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and results-driven
• Positive, energetic leadership style with a strong sense of accountability

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Executive or senior management experience, 3-5 years strongly preferred
• REALTOR® Certified Executive (RCE) and/or Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation is a plus
• Active real estate license holders must place their license on inactive status upon selection

Professional Expectations

• Commitment to ongoing professional development, including a minimum of eight (8) hours of continuing education annually to meet NAR Core Standards
• Willingness to travel in-state and out-of-state approximately six or more times per year

Compensation & Benefits

TRAR offers a competitive and transparent compensation package:

• Salary range: $80,000 – $100,000 annually, commensurate with experience
• Health and retirement benefits
• Professional development support
• Performance-based bonus opportunities

Application Process

Qualified candidates are invited to submit:

• Résumé
• Letter of interest
• Salary requirements

Email submissions to: President.Elect@trarealtors.net Application deadline: June 15, 2026