Job Description: Board Member, LGBT Meeting Professionals

Position Title: Board Director-at-Large

Organization: LGBT Meeting Professionals

Type: Volunteer

The LGBT Meeting Professionals organization (LGBT MPA), a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our board of directors. As a board member, you will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of our organization which includes education for diverse audiences, enhancing partner relations, member growth and engagement, and advocacy to further our mission of connecting, empowering, and advancing the events community through LGBT+ advocacy, education, research, idea exchange, and networking. LGBT MPA is a young organization looking for board members who are ready to work alongside our small staff team to grow the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Duties:

• Provide leadership and oversight for the organization’s strategic planning and policy development.
• Act as an ambassador for the organization, promoting our mission and values within the industry and to external stakeholders.
• Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with other organizations, businesses, and community groups to advance our goals.

Operational Duties:

Enhancing Partner Relations:

• Develop and execute fundraising strategies to grow partnerships and sponsorships necessary for the organization’s sustainability and growth.
• Identify and engage potential partners, sponsors, and grant opportunities.

Education for Diverse Audiences:

• Collaborate with other board members and staff to develop and implement educational programs, workshops, and events that serve our members and the global events community.
• Ensure that programming aligns with the organization’s mission and meets the needs of our diverse membership.

Member Growth and Engagement:

• Foster a vibrant and engaged membership community through regular communication, events, and initiatives.
• Develop strategies to attract new and retain existing members.
• Identify target demographics to attract new members.
• Leverage social media, industry events, and partnerships to promote membership benefits and opportunities.

Advocate for the LGBTQ+ Global Events Community:

• Champion LGBTQ+ inclusivity in the global events industry.
• Collaborate on global initiatives for LGBTQ+ rights.
• Support educational outreach and awareness efforts.
• Promote LGBTQ+ leadership in the events industry.

Qualifications:

• Paid planner, supplier, or partner membership.
• Demonstrated commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy and inclusion within the global events community.
• Experience in fundraising, program development, or member engagement.
• Strong strategic thinking and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of board members, staff, and volunteers.
• Availability to attend monthly board meetings and participate in organizational events and activities.

Term:

Board members served staggered two-year terms that follow the calendar year. No at-large director shall serve more than two (2) full consecutive terms on the Board of Directors. Eligibility for re-nomination of at-large directors shall commence one year following the conclusion of their current term, during which they must remain off the board. To ensure staggered terms in the future, there are board openings for four one-year terms and five two-year terms for this call for nominations.

Time Commitment:

The LGBT MPA is a young organization that needs a board capable of both strategic thinking and hands-on involvement to ensure tasks are completed effectively. As we continue to grow, our aim is to build a strong pool of volunteers, allowing the board to gradually shift its focus more toward strategic planning and shaping the future direction of LGBT MPA.

• Approximately 5-10 hours per month, including monthly virtual board meetings and committee work.
• Two in-person board retreats a year: January 30 – February 1, 2025 and July TBD.
• Board members are expected to cover all travel-related expenses for LGBT MPA in-person board meetings and retreats. We do our best to have partners sponsor all activities during the in-person retreats, including hotel rooms.
• Additional time for events and fundraising activities as needed.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the LGBTQ+ global events community.
• Networking with industry professionals and leaders.
• Professional development and leadership experience.

LGBT Meeting Professionals is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those from underrepresented groups within the LGBTQ+ community.

Join us in creating a global events community where all are accepted, equal, and belong!