Board of Directors Application Form

Thank you for your interest in serving as a member of the Greater Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Serving on the board is a rewarding experience and an opportunity for professional growth. Completing this form will help you understand the skills and time/resource commitments of this leadership position.

This application will be kept confidential and on file at the Chamber office. Applications are used by the Chamber’s Board Selection Committee to identify and evaluate potential board candidates. This committee will interview potential board members and make recommendations to the full board of directors. Directors are elected by a majority vote of the current board members.

The Greater Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce is seeking qualified individuals to serve on the Board of Directors for 3 year terms. The intention of the Board is to create a well-rounded group of dedicated professionals, representing the Greater Palm Harbor business communities. Board members must possess the time commitment and company resources to guide and grow the Chamber through Board support, long-range planning, community relations and fundraising. Candidates must be active Chamber members for at least one (1) year at the time of application.

Board of Directors Job Description

1. Serves a minimum of a three-year term on the Board beginning October 1, each calendar year.

2. Accountable to the full Chamber Board of Directors.

3. Attends board meetings and important related meetings on a regular basis. The Full Board of Directors meets the 4th Thursday of every month from 8:00 – 9:00 am. Meetings are held in the Chamber board room.

4. Makes a serious commitment to participate actively in Chamber committee and event work.

5. Volunteers for and willingly accepts assignments and completes them thoroughly and on time.

6. Stays informed about committee matters, prepares themselves well for meetings, and reviews and comments on minutes and reports.

7. Builds a collegial working relationship with other committee members that contributes to consensus.

8. Participates in the committee's annual evaluation and planning efforts.

9. Participates in membership recruitment for the organization.

10. Participates in networking and membership retention for the organization.

11. Aligns and fully supports board decisions made.

Board Composition

The Board is composed of up to 13 Board members (serving staggered 3 year terms). Executive Board Members serve for a total of 5 years. All Board members have equal voting rights. The Board reserves the right to appoint only qualified candidates.

Required Skills

The position calls for leadership qualities of the highest degree. The Board member must be aware of the importance of public opinion and promote the value of Chamber membership and the benefits derived. The ability to delegate authority while retaining responsibility is of high importance. Board members understand they individually and collectively represent all members of the Chamber and not just the business of which he or she is affiliated. As representatives of the public, the board member will be a primary force for the Greater Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce, to the realization of its opportunities for services and the fulfillment of its obligations to all its constituencies. Board members are required to have experience in planning (short and long term), organizational development, operations (small, medium or large business) and community experience.

Desired Skills

• Ability to leverage people and/or financial resources from member’s own company

• Contacts suitable to expand the Chamber’s reach through executive management in other companies

If you have any questions about your qualifications or of other questions, please contact Matt Mennenga; matt@palmharborchamber.com or call (727) 784-4287.

Notice and Consent By signing this application, I hereby authorize the Greater Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce to conduct a background investigation as part of the board member selection process. I understand that this investigation may include, but is not limited to, a review of my criminal history, professional licenses, and employment verification to ensure my eligibility and suitability for a position of leadership and public trust. I certify that all information provided in this application and any attached resume is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any false statements or omissions may result in my disqualification from consideration or removal from the Board if already elected. Authorization I authorize any relevant law enforcement agency, educational institution, or professional licensing board to release information to the Greater Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce for the sole purpose of evaluating my candidacy for the Board of Directors. This information will be kept confidential and on file at the Chamber office.