AIA Orlando and the Orlando Foundation for Architecture (OFA) seek a dynamic, strategic, and relationship-driven leader to serve as the shared Executive Director for both organizations.
This is a unique executive leadership opportunity overseeing two aligned but distinct non-profit entities:
AIA Orlando, a 501(c)6 professional membership association serving architects and allied professionals; and the
Orlando Foundation for Architecture (OFA), a 501(c)3 charitable organization dedicated to public education, scholarship, and community engagement in the built environment. The Executive Director serves as the chief staff executive for both entities, reporting to their respective Boards of Directors and working in close partnership with the AIA Orlando President and OFA Chair. In addition, this position will oversee daily operations of the recently-opened Orlando Center for Architecture and Design (OCAD).
The ideal candidate will bring demonstrated experience managing both a 501(c)6 membership organization and a 501(c)3 charitable foundation, with a strong understanding of governance distinctions, compliance requirements, fundraising strategy, and mission alignment between affiliated entities.
AIA Orlando is the voice of the architectural profession in Central Florida. The chapter serves architects, emerging professionals, allied members, and firms by advancing design excellence, advocacy, professional development, and community engagement. As a component of the American Institute of Architects (AIA)—a three-tiered organization operating at national, state, and local levels—AIA Orlando supports members through continuing education, public policy advocacy, leadership development, awards programs, and strategic partnerships. With over 900 individual members, AIA Orlando is the one of the largest chapters in Florida and is governed by a twelve person board with a five person executive committee. The staff team of three operates remotely from the Orlando area. Members volunteer on committees and task forces to develop programs and services. Additional information is available at www.aiaorlando.com.
The Orlando Foundation for Architecture (OFA) is a charitable partner focused on public outreach, scholarships, design education, and community impact initiatives. The Foundation advances awareness of architecture and the built environment through lectures, exhibitions, grants, and programs that serve the broader public. Together, these organizations amplify the value of architects and design in shaping resilient, vibrant communities.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA), with over 100,000 members in 200+ chapters around the world, inspires and empowers architects to improve society and transform the world. Through core values that center on being impactful, transformative, visionary, inclusive, and innovative, the AIA drives positive change through the power of design and focused activism. The AIA is a three-tiered organization operating at the national, state, and local levels. AIA Orlando is a local chapter/component of the AIA and is independently chartered and incorporated. The national organization is headquartered in Washington, DC and the statewide component, AIA Florida, is based in Tallahassee.
The Executive Director provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and visionary direction for both organizations. This role requires a collaborative executive who can balance:
Strategic planning and board partnership
Operational management and fiscal stewardship
Membership growth and engagement
Fundraising and donor development
Public advocacy and community presence
Staff leadership and organizational culture
The Executive Director ensures alignment between the 501(c)(6) and 501(c)(3) entities while maintaining appropriate governance, financial, and operational distinctions.
The base salary will be commensurate with education/experience and knowledge/skills/abilities, within the anticipated range of $95,000-$120,000. The compensation package will include competitive benefits.
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS:
AIA Orlando provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
OTHER DUTIES:
Candidates must be willing to undergo a background check including legal, educational, driving, credit, employment records, etc. This position description does not cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
AIA Orlando has engaged an organizational management consultancy, The Three Aspens, Ltd., to assist with this executive search. Inquiries and nominations should be directed (confidentially) to Helene Combs Dreiling, FAIA via e-mail at helene@theplumstudio.com.
To be considered, applicants must submit a customized letter of interest and resume/curriculum vitae to Helene Dreiling at helene@theplumstudio.com by 5:00 pm EDT on May 15, 2026.
The Three Aspens, Ltd. is a consulting firm devoted to change management, organizational transformation, and process innovation. Through a carefully orchestrated search, screening, and selection process, we place the best possible professional to lead and manage a particular not-for-profit or design firm.
