President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce

Location: San Mateo County, CA (Hybrid / On-Site)
Compensation: $150,000–$175,000 base + performance incentives
Industry: Business Advocacy | Economic Development | Nonprofit Leadership

This executive search is being conducted by Sparta Business Solutions.

The Opportunity

The San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic, strategic President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to serve as the organization’s chief staff executive and public-facing leader.

This is a high-impact executive role for a respected, member-driven organization dedicated to strengthening the local business climate, advancing economic vitality, and convening leaders across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The CEO will work closely with a highly engaged Board of Directors, city leadership, and regional partners to shape strategy, ensure financial sustainability, and deliver strong value to Chamber members.

Key Responsibilities (Summary)

• Lead the Chamber’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities
• Partner with the Board of Directors on governance and organizational effectiveness
• Serve as the Chamber’s chief spokesperson and business advocate
• Build and maintain strong relationships with business, civic, and government leaders
• Drive revenue growth through membership, sponsorships, events, and partnerships
• Provide financial oversight, operational leadership, and team management
• Strengthen membership engagement, programs, and community impact

Ideal Candidate

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 10+ years of senior leadership experience
• Experience in a chamber of commerce, trade association, nonprofit, economic development organization, or similar business-focused entity strongly preferred
• Proven success working with boards, elected officials, and diverse stakeholders
• Strategic, relationship-driven leader with strong communication and execution skills
• Demonstrated experience in revenue growth, fundraising, or business development

Application Process

This is a confidential executive search.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter through Sparta Business Solutions by February 23, 2026.
All inquiries and applications will be handled with strict confidentiality.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $150,000.00 - $175,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Application Question(s):

• Which best describes your senior leadership experience?

(Required – multiple choice)
☐ 10+ years as a CEO, President, or Executive Director
☐ 7–9 years in a senior executive role reporting to a board
☐ 5–6 years in a senior leadership role
☐ Less than 5 years in senior leadership

• Describe your experience working with boards of directors and external stakeholders (elected officials, business leaders, community partners).

(Short answer – 500 characters max)

• Which environments have you led in? (Select all that apply)

(Multiple select)
☐ Chamber of Commerce
☐ Trade or Professional Association
☐ Nonprofit Organization
☐ Economic Development Organization

☐ Membership-based Organization
☐ For-profit business with community/government engagement
☐ Other (please specify)

• Briefly describe your experience leading revenue growth, fundraising, or financial sustainability initiatives.

(Short answer – 500 characters max)

• What interests you most about leading the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce at this stage of your career?

(Short answer – 500 characters max)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in San Mateo, CA 94401