Join the Board of Directors
The Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA) Board of Directors is made up of dedicated leaders who share a passion for advancing the art, craft, and business of fine chocolate. Board members play a vital role in shaping the future of the association, strengthening member value, and building a thriving, collaborative industry community.
- Champion FCIA’s mission, vision, and values in all activities.
- Act in the best interest of the association and its diverse membership.
- Contribute time and expertise to Board meetings, committees, and industry initiatives.
- Support the growth of FCIA through advocacy, networking, and member engagement.
- Uphold the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and professionalism.
Board of Directors – Role Descriptions
The Role of President
The President serves as the chief elected officer of FCIA, responsible for providing strategic leadership, ensuring effective governance, and representing the association to members, partners, and the broader fine chocolate community.Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the Board of Directors in setting strategic priorities and long-term goals.
- Preside over all Board and member meetings.
- Represent FCIA in external partnerships, media, and industry events.
- Provide guidance and oversight to committees and working groups.
- Collaborate with staff leadership to ensure operational effectiveness and financial sustainability.
The Role of Vice President
The Vice President supports the President in leading the association and assumes leadership responsibilities in their absence. This role ensures continuity in governance, strengthens Board operations, and often chairs key committees or special projects.Key Responsibilities:
- Assist the President in governance, representation, and strategic planning.
- Preside over Board and member meetings when the President is unavailable.
- Lead or oversee selected committees, task forces, or initiatives.
- Support external relationship-building efforts with festivals, partners, and stakeholders.
- Serve as a bridge between Board members, staff, and membership.
The Role of Secretary
The Secretary ensures effective documentation, communication, and recordkeeping for the association, safeguarding transparency and accountability.Key Responsibilities:
- Record and maintain minutes of all Board and member meetings.
- Ensure timely distribution of agendas, notices, and meeting documentation.
- Maintain official records of Board actions and policies.
- Verify compliance with FCIA bylaws and nonprofit governance requirements.
- Support organizational communication by serving as a point of continuity and documentation.
The Role of Treasurer
The Treasurer serves as the financial steward of FCIA, providing oversight of the association’s fiscal health and accountability.Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee preparation of annual budgets and financial reports.
- Review monthly financial statements and advise the Board on fiscal health.
- Ensure compliance with nonprofit financial standards, audits, and reporting requirements.
- Chair or actively participate in the Finance Committee.
- Provide transparency to members and stakeholders about FCIA’s financial stewardship.
If you are interested in serving as a member of the Board of Directors, please send an email to Cathy Ford, Manager of Member Services at C.Ford@FineChocolateIndustry.org. Include a bio about yourself and your experience in the Fine Chocolate Industry and a photo.