What It Is
Professional associations often have leadership roles like committee chairs, event coordinators, or board members. While many are volunteer positions, some offer stipends, honorariums, or profit-sharing for successfully organized events. These positions allow you to serve your professional community while potentially receiving compensation for your leadership contributions.
How the Monetization Works
You might be responsible for organizing conferences, managing sponsorship relationships, or developing membership initiatives. Compensation can come in various forms:
- Leadership stipends from association revenues
- Honorariums for specific responsibilities
- Profit-sharing from successful events
- Travel and expense reimbursements
Beyond direct compensation, these leadership roles can enhance your professional visibility, potentially increasing your consulting rates or speaking opportunities as you become recognized as a key figure in your field.
Example
A local chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI) might provide stipends to its chapter president or event director, particularly if the chapter hosts profitable conferences or workshops. Similarly, a cybersecurity association might share conference profits with the lead organizer—creating a financial incentive to maximize event success.
Practical Steps to Get Started
- Identify Relevant Organizations: Research associations in your industry at local, regional, or national levels.
- Begin With Volunteer Roles: Demonstrate commitment and capability through initial volunteer contributions.
- Focus on Value Creation: Develop sponsorship relationships or membership initiatives that increase organizational resources.
- Track Measurable Impact: Document growth or profitability metrics to support compensation discussions.
Key Takeaways
Leading a professional association can provide both direct financial benefits and valuable professional advancement opportunities. If you enjoy organizing events, public speaking, and advancing your field, these leadership roles can create both monetary and career-enhancing rewards.
Further Reading & Resources
- BoardSource – Organization offering resources on nonprofit governance applicable to association leadership
- NonProfitJobs.org – Job board featuring leadership positions in professional associations
- The NonProfit Times Job Board – Platform listing association management and leadership opportunities
