[Hiring] Executive Director @McElroy Search & Strategy

Role Description

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is seeking a visionary Executive Director to lead the world’s premier professional organization dedicated to excellence in cosmetic dentistry. The ED aligns people, finances, programs, and governance to deliver transformative member value, sustainable financial strength, and a culture that is inclusive and high-performing. In close partnership with the Board of Directors, volunteer leaders, staff, and outsourced partners, the ED stewards AACD's "crown jewel" accreditation and education programs, strengthens its position as the global standard-bearer for responsible esthetic dentistry, and ensures that the Academy is a highly recognized and welcoming beacon within the cosmetic dentistry field.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Partner with the Board of Directors to execute the long-term strategic plan, aligning staff, finances, and programs to deliver maximum member value.
• Organizational Growth & Innovation: Drive sustainable financial strength and programmatic excellence, ensuring AACD remains a welcoming and innovative beacon for dental professionals worldwide.
• Operational Excellence: Lead and mentor a high-performing team of staff members, fostering a culture of inclusivity, accountability, and excellence.
• External Ambassadorship: Serve as the primary spokesperson and liaison, building strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders, partners, and the broader medical community.
• Governance & Board Relations: Cultivate a transparent, collaborative relationship with the Board of Directors, providing the data-driven insights necessary for informed policy decisions.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of senior leadership experience, ideally within a professional membership environment or nonprofit in the medical field.
• Proven track record of moving an organization from aspirational strategy to disciplined, measurable progress.
• Expert at navigating complex governance structures, clarifying roles and decision rights.
• Strong financial literacy and ability to manage multi-million dollar budgets ($5M–$6M).
• Motivated to diversify revenue, strengthen non-dues income, and take calculated risks to build long-term resilience.
• Successfully led organizations through periods of transition, modeling transparency and accountability.
• Comfortable managing both internal teams and outsourced partners (Finance, HR, IT).
• Ability to build connection and accountability across a geographically dispersed team.

Location and Travel Expectations

• This is a remote-friendly position. While we have a central office in Madison, WI, we welcome exceptional candidates from across the country.
• Commitment to regular onsite visits (1-3 visits per quarter) during the first six months of employment, frequency may adjust afterward.
• Attendance required at major AACD events and other board and stakeholder engagement opportunities as needed. Approximately 4-8 trips per year in total.

Company Description

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) is the world's leading professional organization dedicated to advancing excellence in the art and science of cosmetic dentistry. Founded in 1984, AACD sets the global standard for cosmetic dentistry education, accreditation, and ethical practice. The Academy serves dental professionals who are passionate about delivering life-changing smiles through comprehensive education, rigorous accreditation programs, and a vibrant community of practitioners committed to responsible esthetic dentistry.

• AACD's hallmark accreditation program is recognized as the "crown jewel" of cosmetic dentistry credentials, representing the highest level of achievement in the field.
• Through its annual Scientific Session, continuing education courses, publications, and member resources, AACD provides transformational learning experiences that elevate both clinical skills and patient care.