Join Our Team: PPAI Careers & Culture

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location: Irving, TX

Reports To: President & CEO

Job Summary

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of PPAI, ensuring efficiency, financial stability, and a culture of excellence while overseeing the organization’s ongoing operations and procedures. This executive leadership role requires a strategic and results-driven leader who will be focused on enhancing and optimizing PPAI’s digital footprint, driving and maintaining the organization’s short- and long-term financial stability, creating overall operational efficiencies, and fostering a culture of joy. The COO will work closely with the CEO and executive leadership team to execute strategic initiatives that align with PPAI’s vision, mission, values, and strategic plan and general vision shared by the Board of Directors and CEO.

This role requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in financial management, digital transformation, and organizational development, ensuring that PPAI’s teams are empowered, well-trained, and equipped to exceed performance goals.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Team Development (10%)

• Develop, mentor, and oversee leaders in Finance, Technology, and Human Resources, ensuring teams are continuously improving and aligned with PPAI’s mission.
• Define clear goals and performance metrics for each department, ensuring accountability and progress tracking.
• Create and lead leadership development initiatives, ensuring that department heads are equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive their teams effectively.
• Foster a high-performance culture, ensuring that teams remain engaged, innovative, and proactive in problem-solving.
• Present to and communicate with the PPAI Board of Directors, while serving as the liaison with the Finance Committee and Vice Chair of Finance.

Technology & Digital Transformation (30%)

• Collaborate with the IT Director to set the strategic vision for PPAI’s technology infrastructure, ensuring digital tools and systems align with long-term organizational goals.
• Oversee the 2025 ERP and LMS implementation, ensuring that teams manage integration and adoption, then serve as leader for ongoing optimization to continue improved efficiencies and enhanced experience for members and internal and partner stakeholders.
• Ensure technology teams are focused on innovation, data-driven decision-making, and security, keeping PPAI at the forefront of industry best practices.
• Lead team in procurement, implementation, and leadership adoption of an enterprise-wide business intelligence tool that will create a stronger reliance on data to inform strategic and tactical actions.
• Champion digital transformation initiatives, guiding the Technology team in executing seamless system improvements while driving organization-wide adoption.

Financial Strategy & Organizational Stability (30%)

• Provide financial oversight and strategic direction to ensure long-term fiscal health and operational sustainability.
• Guide the Finance team in developing and executing budget strategies that optimize resources and support PPAI’s strategic goals.
• Oversee the development of financial forecasting models, reviewed consistently with internal and Board stakeholders, that enhance decision-making and ensure proactive financial planning.
• Collaborate with the Director of Finance and accounting team to implement cost-saving initiatives, revenue diversification strategies, and financial risk mitigation measures.
• Ensure that financial leadership is empowered to make data-driven decisions that drive efficiency and maximize impact.

Human Resources & Organizational Growth (15%)

• Set the vision for talent development and workforce planning, ensuring that HR strategies support PPAI’s growth and member needs.
• Oversee organizational culture initiatives that enhance employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
• Ensure HR leaders are driving best-in-class recruitment, onboarding, and training processes to attract, retain, and develop top-tier talent.
• Partner with HR Director and team to implement performance management systems that encourage continuous improvement and accountability.
• Establish succession planning initiatives that prepare the next generation of leaders within PPAI.

Operational Efficiency & Cross-Functional Collaboration (15%)

• Lead organizational efficiency initiatives, ensuring that all departments operate cohesively and effectively.
• Oversee efforts led by Manager of Project Management in procurement, implementation and enterprise-wide adoption of workflow optimization platform.
• Guide teams to rely upon formalized standard operating procedures and processes that enhance collaboration and reduce silos.
• Develop and maintain a performance dashboard, working with department heads to establish KPIs that track operational and financial health.
• Ensure seamless communication and alignment across teams, fostering a collaborative, member-focused work environment.

Experience Requirements

• 10+ years of executive leadership experience, with strong experience in finance, technology, human resources and operational strategy and a track record of success.
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams, fostering leadership growth across departments.
• Extensive experience in financial planning, technology transformation, and operational process improvement.
• Deep understanding of digital transformation and how to implement enterprise-wide systems (ERP, CRM, LMS, BI, PMO tools) successfully.
• Strong expertise in strategic planning, performance measurement, and organizational development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Visionary leadership, capable of defining and executing long-term strategies.
• Ability to mentor and develop senior leaders, ensuring teams operate at peak effectiveness.
• Exceptional financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and revenue optimization.
• Strong understanding of enterprise technology, cybersecurity, and system integration best practices.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, fostering cross-functional collaboration.
• High adaptability, able to lead through change and drive transformation initiatives.
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills.
• Aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving.

Preferred Qualifications

• Corporate experience required and that within a member-based association or nonprofit organization, preferred.
• MBA, relevant advanced degree or equivalent previous experience.
• Certifications in finance, technology and/or leadership development (e.g., CPA, PMP, Six Sigma).

Job Status

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Salary
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full-Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel (approximately 30%)

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Sales Operations Administrative Assistant

Location: Dallas, TX

Reports to: Manager, Sales Operations

Job Summary:

A valued member of the Business Development team, the Administrative Assistant is responsible for executing a variety of administrative, customer service, and sales support activities for the Business Development and Membership departments.

Key Responsibilities:

Customer Service (25%):

• Provide professional customer service to internal teams and external clients. Communicate effectively with the sales team about leads, opportunities, and customer concerns.

PPAI Media & Advertising Support ( 5%):

• Manage the advertising run sheet, process insertion orders, track ad materials, and maintain digital stats. Collect and upload ad materials and manage the PPB circulation list, including address updates, renewals, and cancellations.

Tradeshows & Events ( 5%):

• Support event registration, including processing large list uploads. Assist with sponsorship and advertising sales by managing deliverable reminders, collecting materials, and uploading content to website(s). Manage secondary Product Pavilion responsibilities and assist in sales reporting across departments.

Membership Support (50%):

• Handle membership inquiries, process applications, and ensure compliance with governance policies. Maintain databases, update company profiles, and manage password resets. Follow up with members regarding billing, overdue materials, and other relevant information.

Department Support (15%):

• Provide general administrative support to the business development department as needed, assisting with additional tasks and responsibilities assigned by the Manager or Director.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in administrative support roles.
• At least 3 years of experience in customer service, with a strong client-focused approach.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with reporting systems and generating reports.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Technologically adept and quick to learn new systems and tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Effective time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Specific Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Business or a related field.

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone)

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Non-Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Hourly
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Flexible
• Work Location: PPAI Headquarters with some remote flexibility

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

Location: Dallas, TX

Reports to: Sales Manager, Business Development

Job Summary:

PPAI is seeking a highly motivated and results-driven Account Manager to join our team. This role will be instrumental in driving growth and retention through building and maintaining strong relationships with key members and stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have experience in account management, advertising sales, tradeshows and a strong ability to identify opportunities to enhance member satisfaction and engagement.

This role offers a dynamic opportunity for a highly motivated individual to make a significant impact on growth and success of the organization by driving membership engagement and satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

Sales/ Account Management (70%)

• Harness the power of a consultative sales approach, tailoring sales methodologies to meet the unique needs of customers. Sell exhibit space, sponsorships, and advertising for association media, events, tradeshows, and other identified items with finesse and expertise.
• Drive maximum revenue growth within the territory by expanding diversified revenue streams while strictly adhering to pricing guidelines for optimal results.
• Utilize CRM, sales platforms, and departmental processes to streamline operations and drive overall company success.

Relationship Management (20%)

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers and influencers through continuous and effective communication strategies.
• Ensure comprehensive coverage of the target market, actively pursuing new business opportunities and promptly engaging with all prospects and leads.

Industry Knowledge (10%)

• Stay at the forefront of clients’ businesses, competitors, and industry trends to provide informed solutions and maintain a competitive edge.

Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business-related field is preferred.
• A strong track record of at least 5 years in account management, demonstrating revenue growth, strategic thinking and exceptional customer service skills.
• Strong communication skills and time management abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Hubspot.
• Must be able to travel 10% of the year.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent customer services and negotiation skills.
• Effective analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations.

Specific Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in account management or client-facing role.
• Ability to analyze data and metrics to optimize account management strategies and improve member engagement.
• Comfortable managing multiple accounts and priorities while maintaining focus on high-value strategic initiatives.
• Proven track record of working closely with leadership teams to identify, prioritize, and execute plans.
• Proven track record of exceeding sales plans.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of how member associations operate, including membership tiers, fees, services, and engagement strategies.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with marketing, finance, media, event planning, and other teams to deliver value to our members.

Association Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status:

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Salary + Commission
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full-Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Not Flexible
• Work Location: Position is preferred to work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model, however, Remote will be considered.

Physical Activity:

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement) Travel to and work offsite at PPAI tradeshows and events and customer visits as required. Requires extended work hours beyond an 8-hour workday.

Work Environment:

• Office environment: Yes/Hybrid
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Multiple days per trip, up to 10%

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org

IT Director

Location: Dallas, TX

Reports to: CEO

Job Summary:

The IT Director will oversee the technology strategy and operations for PPAI, with key responsibilities around the organization’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). This role is responsible for ensuring the effective and efficient use of technology to support the PPAI’s goals and objectives. The IT Director will lead a team of IT professionals, manage the IT budget, and collaborate with other departments to implement technology solutions that enhance business performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Technology strategy lead: Develop, implement, monitor, and continue to enhance the organizational IT strategy for PPAI aligned with the associated goals and objectives and all PPAI stakeholders. Ensure overall solutions are scoped with PPAI mission and vision in-mind and implemented in a budget-conscious way. (30%)
• Technology infrastructure and ERP: Oversee the management of the organization’s IT infrastructure, including networks, hardware, software, and security. Lead design, development and implementation of the organization’s ERP, ensuring a seamless integration of enterprise systems that creates strong internal processes and procedures, as well as those for external stakeholders. This will include connectivity of technology systems covering financial, CRM, marketing, events, membership, LMS, sales, PMO, business intel, and more. (30%)
• Web systems/architecture lead: Provide leadership and guidance for PPAI web properties, managing an internal team responsible for web architecture, SEO, and user experience. Oversee the design, development, and maintenance of scalable and secure web systems, develop and implement SEO strategies, enhance user experience, and collaborate with other departments to align web initiatives with business objectives. (10%)
• Department lead: Lead and mentor the IT team, providing guidance and support for professional development. Manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources. (10%)
• Accountable thought leader: Collaborate with PPAI Executive Leadership Team and department leads to identify and implement technology solutions that improve business processes and performance. Provide consistent leadership report-outs on performance and project updates. Serve as proactive solutions seeker and open communicator with PPAI leadership. Stay current with emerging technologies and trends, assess their potential impact on the company, and advocate for digital transformation within the industry. Ensure industry standards and regulations compliance. (10%)
• Partnership lead: Develop and maintain relationships with external vendors, technology partners, and service providers. Source partnerships and work through internal channels to procure advantageous vendor relationships that are budget-friendly, yet highly effective for PPAI goals and objectives. (10%)

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in IT, with at least 5 years in a management role.
• Successful background designing, managing, and implementing complex ERP solutions.
• Proven ability to understand business needs and apply appropriate technology effectively.
• Experience with AI-enabled platforms and business intelligence systems.
• Hands-on leadership experience, leading and contributing directly to projects.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Self-starter with a high level of initiative and attention to detail.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• In-depth knowledge of IT infrastructure, networks, hardware, software, and security.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulations.

Specific Qualifications:

• Experience with digital transformation initiatives and leading significant internal change of systems and approaches to leveraging technology.
• Ability to understand existing systems and lead the implementation of streamlined systems.
• Experience in mapping business processes and overseeing web strategy and product development efforts.
• Proven track record of working closely with leadership teams to identify, prioritize, and execute plans.
• Experience in managing IT projects within the marketing industry or similar industries.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with a nonprofit, association experience a nice-to-have.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, ITIL, CISSP).

Association-Wide Responsibilities & Values (expectations of everyone):

• Provide honest and ongoing communication as needed to support success throughout the organization.
• Meet established deadlines for all projects, reports and communications for all audiences both internally and externally.
• Provide high-quality products, reports, communications and projects for all audiences internally and externally.
• Be fair, consistent, responsive and supportive of leaders, staff, board members, members and vendors.
• Help PPAI to continually seek improvement. Be prepared to personally manage changes taking place within PPAI and the industry.
• Be empowered, accountable and responsible for your career success, actions, influence and impact upon the organization as a whole.
• Foster cultural values, mission and overall organizational guidelines of PPAI.

Job Status

• FLSA Status (Exempt / Non-Exempt): Exempt
• Compensation (Hourly / Salary): Salary
• Job Status (Full-Time /Part-Time /Temp): Full-Time
• Daily Schedule (Start time Flexible / Not Flexible): Flexible
• Work Location: Position must work from HQ location with Hybrid Remote Work Model

Physical Activity

• Sitting
• Standing
• Lifting
• Pushing/Pulling
• Bending/Stooping
• Extended work hours, extended weeks (endurance requirement)

Work Environment

• Office environment
• Trade show floor or event venues
• Temperature controlled environment
• Travel: Must be able to travel

PPAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)

Apply to: apply@ppai.org