The Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) is the leading association for public sector waste and resource management professionals across North America. With 47 Chapters spanning the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin, SWANA connects a diverse network of industry professionals committed to advancing from waste management to resource management. We support our members through technical education, training, credentialing, and research, while also advocating for the essential role our industry plays in protecting public health, supporting the economy, and building sustainable communities.

Role Overview

The VP of Industry Engagement serves as a key executive leader and a primary deputy to the CEO/Executive Director. This role is responsible for driving member engagement, strengthening SWANA’s position in the industry, and overseeing critical program areas including membership, training, and education. The VP provides high-level organizational leadership, supports the Board of Directors, and works closely with directors and staff to ensure alignment with strategic priorities. The VP will play a central role in revenue growth and business development by expanding non-dues revenue streams, building strategic partnerships, and ensuring programs deliver measurable value to members and stakeholders. This position requires a visionary yet practical leader who can balance strategy and execution while serving as a visible ambassador for SWANA within the industry.

Key Responsibilities

Member Engagement & External Relations

• Lead the development and implementation of strategies to strengthen and expand member engagement, retention, and satisfaction.
• Act as a visible ambassador for SWANA, representing the organization at external events, conferences, and industry meetings.
• Cultivate partnerships with key industry stakeholders and allied organizations to expand SWANA’s influence and reach.

Revenue Growth & Business Development

• Develop and implement strategies to expand non-dues revenue streams through training, education, partnerships, and member engagement initiatives.
• Identify and pursue new opportunities for sponsorships, partnerships, and collaborations that support organizational growth.
• Support financial sustainability by aligning programs and services with revenue goals.

Education, Training & Professional Development

• Oversee the design, delivery, and evolution of SWANA’s training and education programs, ensuring offerings remain relevant, innovative, and impactful.
• Drive the growth of professional development opportunities that enhance the skills, knowledge, and leadership capacity of members.
• Ensure programs are aligned with industry needs and position SWANA as the leading resource for solid waste and recycling professionals.

Strategy & Innovation

• Partner with the CEO and senior leadership team on long-term strategic planning, organizational development, and resource allocation.
• Translate strategic priorities into actionable plans that deliver measurable impact.
• Champion innovation across programs and services to anticipate member needs and adapt to a changing industry landscape.

Organizational Leadership

• Serve as a visible senior leader within SWANA, guiding the organization and advancing SWANA’s strategic priorities.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, senior staff, and Board of Directors, ensuring alignment of goals and effective execution of initiatives.
• Provide mentorship and oversight to staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and member-centric service.

Why SWANA?

• Be part of an evolution: Help shape the next chapter of SWANA’s transformation from waste to resource management.
• Meaningful mission: Contribute to sustainability, safety, and innovation across communities and industry.
• Purpose-driven team: Work with professionals aligned around SWANA’s strategic pillars: safety, sustainability, professional development, and member value.
• Work with flexibility: Hybrid-remote options plus a benefits package that includes generous leave, medical choices (including employer-funded HSA), and employer-paid life, disability, and long?term care insurance.

How to Apply

Submit your resume, cover letter, and salary expectations to hr@swana.org. SWANA is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or veteran status.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in related field; advanced degree preferred.
• At least 10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience, with a proven track record of success in a member-based association, nonprofit, or related industry organization.
• Demonstrated success in overseeing membership, education, or training functions, with measurable growth in engagement and program impact.
• Experience driving revenue growth and developing new business opportunities within an association or nonprofit setting.
• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into effective execution.
• Exceptional organizational leadership skills, with experience managing multiple teams and functions.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage effectively with members, partners, and stakeholders at all levels.
• Superior communication and presentation abilities, with experience representing organizations externally.
• Familiarity with the solid waste and recycling industry, or experience in a related technical/professional membership organization, strongly preferred.
• Must be based in the Washington D.C. area.
• Willing to travel 25% - 50% of the time.