Position description: Director – commercial and growth strategy
The Institute of Professional Editors (IPEd) is the peak professional body for editors in Australia and New Zealand. We support and advocate for editorial professionals through professional development, networking, and industry engagement.
We are seeking an experienced and hands-on director to drive commercial opportunities and membership growth, ensuring IPEd’s long-term financial sustainability. This is a pivotal role in shaping IPEd’s future, fostering partnerships, and expanding revenue streams beyond membership fees.
About the role
This newly created voluntary director role will focus on commercial strategy, revenue diversification, and membership growth.
Over the past nine years, IPEd has faced challenges in growing its membership and financial base, and we urgently need a fresh approach to ensure sustainability. The CEO’s time is constrained, particularly in conference years, limiting the ability to drive commercial initiatives.
This role will provide the necessary leadership to implement a proactive and strategic growth plan.
Key responsibilities
This role will focus on commercial opportunities, membership growth and financial sustainability with the key skills based directors on the board. This individual would be expected to:
- Work with the Finance Director to develop and execute a commercial strategy to increase revenue streams beyond membership fees.
- Work with the CEO, directors and staff to identify and leverage partnership opportunities, sponsorships, and funding sources.
- Work with the Membership Director to explore new membership models and services to attract a broader audience and drive initiatives to grow and retain members through enhanced engagement and value offerings.
- Ensure alignment of growth strategies with IPEd’s mission and values.
- Build and implement revenue-generating activities such as training programs, consultancy services, and strategic industry partnerships.
- Lead negotiations for sponsorships and commercial agreements that benefit IPEd members.
About you
We are looking for a hands-on and commercially minded leader who thrives in a strategic yet practical role. You will have:
- Demonstrated experience in business development, commercial strategy, or revenue generation.
- A track record of securing funding, partnerships, and sponsorships.
- Strong strategic thinking with the ability to execute and deliver measurable results.
- Experience in membership growth and engagement strategies.
- High-level stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
- Understanding of the not-for-profit or professional association sector (desirable but not essential)
Position details
- This is a voluntary director role on the IPEd Board.
- Estimated time commitment: 6-10 hours per month, including bi-monthly board meetings, possible participation on related committees and occasional project work.
- Board terms are two years, with the possibility of renewal.
- Location: remote – IPEd Board members are based across Australia and New Zealand. Meetings are held online.
Why join IPEd?
- Play a critical role in shaping the future of the editorial profession.
- Lead impactful commercial initiatives and partnerships.
- Work within a collaborative and supportive leadership team.
- Help drive long-term financial sustainability for a respected industry body.
How to apply
Please submit your expression of interest, outlining your relevant experience and how you can contribute to IPEd’s commercial and growth strategy, to CEO, Karen Lee ceo@iped-editors.org by COB 1 May 2025.