Careers

THE ORGANIZATION

Established in 1850, the Iowa Medical Society (IMS) maintains a strong reputation of service to 6,000 physicians, residents, and medical students of every specialty and from every county in Iowa, with practice modalities ranging from independent practice to hospital employment.  The IMS exists to advance medical science and promote fair medical laws and regulations in Iowa.  IMS also works to protect the health of Iowans through a variety of projects and activities at the state and national levels.  In addition to a sterling advocacy program, IMS provides educational programming, and state and federal advocacy and policy analysis.  IMS has two related organizations:  Iowa Medical Political Action Committee and the Iowa Medical Society Foundation. 

The Core Purpose of IMS is to: “assure the highest quality health care in Iowa through our role as physician and patient advocate.” 

Located in downtown Des Moines, IMS has approximately a $1.9M budget, is led by a staff of 8, under the direction of a 20-member Board of Directors, including 12 at-large seats, a resident, two medical students, and ex-officio members.  With national rankings, such as #3 Best Affordable Place to Live and Top 10 Best Place for Business and Careers, Greater Des Moines is one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the nation and a highly desirable place to work and live.  

POSITION SUMMARY

The Executive Vice President (EVP) / CEO is responsible for leading and managing the IMS.  In partnership with the elected leaders, the EVP/CEO serves as a spokesperson for IMS and participates in the development of new policies and programs that serve the best interests of the members and increases non-dues revenue. The EVP/CEO plans, organizes, directs and coordinates programs and activities to assure objectives are attained, plans are fulfilled, finances are healthy, and member needs are met.  The EVP/CEO maintains effective internal and external relationships with state and federal government and key community organizations throughout the state, manages the staff and budget, and assures value for expenditures made.  

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The EVP/CEO is responsible for the following:

• In partnership with the elected leadership, setting the vision of the organization and developing ongoing strategic direction
• In partnership with elected leadership, successfully identifying and launching new non-dues revenue opportunities
• Promoting the highest levels of advocacy for Iowa physicians at the state and federal levels by maintaining strong external relationships; also maintaining strong relations with the American Medical Association (AMA), the federation, and key leaders
• Leading, directing, supervising and coordinating all programs, projects and major activities
• Building strong, trusting relationships with Iowa physicians, practice leaders, and other key stakeholders, who may from time to time have differing points of view
• Representing the IMS on Iowa Healthcare Collaborative and other Boards as requested
• Providing liaison and staff support to various IMS committees
• Promoting the value of IMS membership by proactively developing innovative strategies to attract and retain members, while maintaining enthusiasm and interest in the work of IMS
• Establishing a program of fiscal responsibility for the IMS. Developing, recommending and, upon approval, operating within an annual budget
• Recruiting, training, and motivating IMS employees. Maintaining a sound and efficient organizational structure for the Society and building and promoting a positive, team-oriented culture
• Defining duties, establishing performance standards, and conducting employee performance reviews and evaluations
• Providing leadership and direction to the IMS team; directing, monitoring and evaluating individual performance; providing ongoing feedback and coaching as needed; leading organization recruitment and selection efforts; recognizing achievements and counseling individuals with substandard performance to redirect to acceptable levels
• Exhibiting strong commitment to IMS membership through its policies, programs, services, publications and activities. Continually working to enhance company image and positive reputation with membership, outside organizations and industry
• Collaborating with the Board to refine and implement the strategic plan while ensuring that the budget, staff, and priorities are aligned with IMS’s core mission and standards. Supplying necessary guidance to assist and collaborate with the Board in long and short-term strategic planning; providing recommendations regarding IMS policies and procedures. Executing all Board approved policies. Directing, communicating and overseeing the execution of all finalized plans
• Focusing on legislative strategies and actions to advance or encourage state-wide and national legislation that will support the industry; working with legislators and action committees to redirect proposed legislation or change current law. Working with team on devising optimal strategies and approaches; overseeing the execution of plans so goals are achieved
• Overseeing and managing the development and monitoring of the organization budget; ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of all financial accounting and reporting; ensuring funds are allocated adequately to reflect present and future needs
• Overseeing and providing direction on the formulation and execution of comprehensive marketing, branding and revenue generating strategies that will expand membership and increase revenues
• Working with the IMS team to ensure effective technologies are being leveraged, for the work is being performed and work flow / efficiencies are optimized.
• Leading and facilitating cross-departmental collaboration; strengthening internal communications with all staff; creating and promoting a positive, diverse work environment that supports consistency throughout the organization’s strategy, operational methods, and data collection needs
• Other duties as assigned

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s Degree preferred; CAE a plus
• A minimum of 6-10 years of leadership experience in progressive, complex organizations, with demonstrated success in leading, planning and organizing operations
• Strong relationship-building skills and proven success in establishing and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Financial management expertise and the initiative to develop membership and non-dues revenue
• Proven ability to organize and lead advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels and to maintain an appropriate level of visibility with key decision-makers
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of current healthcare issues, specifically issues facing physicians
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with polished presentation, persuasion and public speaking skills
• Experience as a senior executive with a professional healthcare association is a plus
• Candidates who possess an in-depth knowledge and understanding of issues facing Iowa is a plus
• Experience working with an organizationally-related foundation is a plus
• Willingness to travel up to 20%

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES

Stakeholders describe the successful EVP/CEO as mission driven with integrity, strong values, and a true advocate for physicians.  The successful candidate is a self-starter and relationship builder with proven success in establishing and maintaining working relationships with diverse groups. The EVP/CEO will have experience successfully developing sources of non-dues revenue, is a good listener, has strong Board relationship skills and the ability to foster collaboration with staff, partners, community and government leaders, and the public.  The successful candidate encourages a culture of respect, communicates openly with staff and volunteer leaders, and is professional in approach and demeanor.  The EVP/CEO will exude a strong executive presence and self-confidence and is able to attract and retain highly qualified staff. 

KEY OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES

With a solid foundation, healthy reserves, a strong grants program, and responsive and hard-working staff in place, IMS seeks an EVP/CEO who can continue to manage and grow the Society’s revenue, programs and services. Opportunities exist in building and strengthening partnerships, increasing engagement with group members, and connecting with the next generation of physicians. 

The IMS leadership demographic is changing to reflect the broader physician community. The constantly changing healthcare landscape and new demands on the practice of medicine presents significant challenges but also offers opportunities to support the growing and differing needs of physicians across the state. 

SEARCH PROCESS 

Applications will be accepted until June 24^th. The search for the EVP/CEO is being conducted by Jill Christie, President, Tuft & Associates.  Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to:

Jill Christie, President, Tuft & Associates, c/o cbabjak@tuftassoc.com