Executive Director of Tech Nebraska

Tech Nebraska Executive Director Job Description

Organizational Overview

Nebraska needs a thriving, unified technology sector to drive its economy, compete for top talent and prepare to solve the challenges of tomorrow. A solid foundation exists — Nebraska outputs nearly $4.5 billion in GDP from the information technology sector. Despite ambitious goals by government and business leaders to grow technology businesses and add jobs, Nebraska’s technology community isn’t yet reaching its full potential.

Enter Tech Nebraska. Formed in 2023 in partnership with the NE Chamber, Tech Nebraska convenes Nebraska’s top technology leaders, partners, and stakeholders to foster a more diverse and inclusive technology workforce and advocate for pro-growth, tech-focused public policies. This organization serves as the statewide tech advocacy leader for Nebraska.

• Connecting Nebraska’s tech community and leaders
• Promoting growth in Nebraska’s technology and business communities
• Growing diversity and inclusion in the technology landscape of the state
• Growing technological innovation in Nebraska’s core industries
• Influencing legislation on federal, state, and local levels

Tech Nebraska’s mission: Cultivating Nebraska’s tech community to drive collaboration, growth and policy.

To achieve this mission, it:

• Convenes technology leaders to create an agenda that is pro-growth, pro-technology and pro-business
• Fosters partnerships and programs that grow Nebraska’s technology community
• Influences legislation on federal, state and local levels to foster an environment that creates new technology businesses and jobs

The Position

Executive Director of Tech Nebraska

The Executive Director of Tech Nebraska provides strategic leadership for the organization. The Director has primary responsibility to support growth, sustainability and global competitiveness of Nebraska’s technology-based economy through advocacy, collaboration, and education.

The Director is responsible for delivering programs that align with the needs of member businesses, organizations and professionals; developing key partnerships between industry, academia and government institutions; and developing programming for Tech Nebraska’s future. The Director is also responsible for growing and retaining membership.

This role is for a leader who seeks to make an impact throughout the state by meeting the changing needs and challenges of its diverse membership. The Executive Director must be comfortable with assessing and recommending changes, both internal and external to the organization. The Executive Director is both visionary and hands-on. They will have an inclusive style to listen and respond to pressing issues throughout the organization, its advisory board, and Nebraska.

Essential Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• In conjunction with the NE Chamber, Tech Nebraska’s Executive Committee and Advisory Board, develop and execute an annual strategic plan.
• Oversee all communication and marketing campaigns to ensure alignment with strategic priorities and the overall vision of Tech Nebraska.
• Create strategies that influence state policy and funding to ensure ongoing growth and development of the technology industry in Nebraska.

Organizational Advancement

• Execute Tech Nebraska’s initiatives for cultivating, procuring and maintaining industry investors and sponsors.
• Grow and retain the Tech Nebraska member base across the state to increase influence at scale.
• Act as the chief spokesperson for Tech Nebraska, advocating on issues aligned with organizational goals.
• Build strong consensus within Tech Nebraska and across the state; act as an advocate for technology and increase visibility among industry constituents.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Support and facilitate Executive Committee and Advisory Board meetings.
• Prioritize key relationships among community partners and stakeholders.
• Build and sustain a unified voice and gather support from government, education, and community institutions.

Finance and Operations

• Manage financial functions, including annual budgeting, fund allocation, and mid- and long-term forecasting.
• Navigate complex organizational and administrative challenges while staying focused on Tech Nebraska’s mission and values.

Membership Development

• Lead membership growth through recruitment, engagement and retention strategies tailored to the tech sector.
• Foster relationships with potential members, sponsors and partners to drive revenue and expand the network.
• Implement strategies to meet goals, including sponsorships, event participation, and membership growth.
• Oversee member onboarding and ensure consistent, high-quality communication and service.

Qualifications

The Executive Director will bring proven leadership, business acumen and relationship management skills as well as a commitment to the mission. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and characteristics:

Essential Qualifications

• 5+ years of senior management experience in non-profit, for-profit or government organizations.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• Experience directing organizational financial and budget activities to fund operations and increase efficiency.
• Fiscal planning and financial management expertise.
• Strong community involvement and external presence.
• Strategic policy and planning experience to guide operations and outcomes.
• High ethical standards, integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.

Desired Qualifications

• Passion for or experience in the technology industry.
• Experience leading a member-based or professional organization.
• Commitment to the value of member organizations in the community.
• Demonstrated success in sales and fundraising.
• Experience with lobbying and government relations.
• Ability to build strong relationships with members and expand membership across tech sectors.
• Insight into member needs and programming for growth and learning.
• Proficiency in working with Boards and cultivating stakeholder relationships.
• Recognized thought leadership in the tech space.
• Commitment to lifelong learning.

Leadership and Communication Style

• Leadership approach rooted in awareness, presence, authenticity, empathy, and clarity.
• Track record of fostering a collaborative organizational culture.
• Positive mindset in guiding organizations through change.
• Outstanding communication and public speaking skills.
• Excellence in external engagement across diverse audiences.

Compensation and Benefits

Office space, technology equipment, and benefits are provided through the NE Chamber. Insurance options include health, dental, basic and supplemental life, and long-term disability. Additional benefits include a 401(k) plan, vacation, sick leave, and a competitive compensation package.

Additional Information

For more information or to apply, please contact: [email protected]