Executive Director

The Executive Director manages the affairs of the Texas Press Association, Texas Press Service Inc., and the Texas Newspaper Foundation. This role requires vision, leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to develop strong relationships. The Executive Director must stay abreast of changing trends and challenges in association management and the newspaper industry, demonstrate good judgment, dedication and loyalty while maintaining a positive, enthusiastic attitude.

Responsibilities

  Board of Directors – Interact with Board of Directors regarding TPA’s program of work. Lead the Board in developing long-term vision, in setting legislative policy, and association governance.

  Staff and Property – Oversee recruitment, training, discipline and motivation of six full-time staff members. Manage employee benefits and oversee the maintenance and upkeep of TPA property.

  Member Relations – Build strong relationships with members, associate members, potential members and clients. Promote the importance of membership in TPA.

  Fiscal Responsibility – Manage the financial affairs of three organizations. Texas Press Association (a 501(c)(6) non-profit corporation), Texas Press Service, Inc. (a for-profit corporation that focuses on media buying) and Texas Newspaper Foundation (a 501(c)(3) private foundation).

  Program of Work – The Association oversees the Legislative Advocacy Program through building positive relationships with legislators and coalition partners while organizing grass-roots support through member publishers. TPA hosts an annual convention and trade show, a newspaper contest and provides a digital archive of all Texas newspaper members. The Association manages the statewide Public Notice Database (www.texaspublicnotices.com), partners with journalism schools and looks for opportunities to enhance Member Services including workshops and online training programs. The Foundation honors outstanding individuals with its Hall of Fame award, and provides the primary funding for the Texas Center for Community Journalism. The Press Service provides advertising sales and placement, manages the Texas Classified Ad Network, Texas 2×2 Display Ad Network, Press Release Service, Texas Press Messenger, Newspaper Directory and other income-producing services.

Apply

TPA provides a competitive salary and benefits package and boasts a history of long service from its executive directors and staff. Apply to Lisa Chappell, Chairman, TPA Board of Directors at lchappell@cnhi.com. Please include a resume and salary history.

About Texas Press Association

The Texas Press Association (TPA) was founded on May 19, 1880 to serve as the voice of the Texas newspaper industry. It currently represents more than 350 newspapers published in the state. Guided by its mission: “Promoting and Protecting the Future of Texas Newspapers,” the association champions the welfare of Texas newspapers, encourages higher standards of journalism, and plays an important role in protecting the public’s right to know as an advocate of First Amendment liberties.