Executive Director

The Pipeline Open Data Standard (PODS™) Association, Inc. a non-profit trade association, seeks a dynamic executive director to take it into the next decade. For six years, the PODS Association has developed data standards for the pipeline industry by serving as a forum for pipeline operators and vendors to work together toward the development of new initiatives and data models. In order to better meet the needs of the growing membership and the international pipeline industry, the PODS Board of Directors has determined that an Executive Director is needed.

The new Executive Director will be expected to build upon the existing track record and lead the association as it advances its program goals in the years ahead. The Executive Director will work closely with the PODS Board of Directors. The position calls for a creative leader with outstanding strategic management and communications skills, as well as political savvy and a bold leadership spirit.

Applicants will first be interviewed by phone by the search committee made up of members of the board of directors. Successful applicants will be invited to meet with the Board of Directors.

Background

The PODS Association, Inc. is charged with the specific mandate of developing and maintaining pipeline data standards and data interchange standards for the pipeline industry. These standards primarily include pipeline operations, facilities, integrity management and regulatory compliance. Its 11-member Board of Directors directs the association in accordance with its mission and vision. The officers of the Association, President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer carry out the day-to-day operations.

The Association supports the following core programs:

PODS Data Model Development: The PODS Technical Committee is responsible for the ongoing development of the PODS model. This 12-person committee consisting of operators and vendors meets regularly to discuss and make enhancements to the model.
Working Group Support: The Association supports the development of additional data standards and development efforts including ILI data interchange, ECDA interchange, right-of-way, spatial implementation, documentation and others. These working groups provide an important role in meeting business needs of the pipeline industry and developing new standards where none exist.
Marketing and Development: Participation in GIS and pipeline industry conferences is important so that operator, vendor and governmental organizations are made aware of the Association and the benefits of membership.

The Association web site is www.pods.org.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership to the PODS Association and Board in the development, management, and evaluation of programs and proper alignment of staff and financial resources to meet defined goals and objectives within budget. Ensure that programs are strategic, effective, and well coordinated internally and with allied groups and coalitions. It is hoped that the new Executive Director will become the principal spokesperson for the organization.

Public Relations: Provide leadership to the Board to ensure strong representation of the organization to the pipeline industry, pipeline vendor community, and other organizations. Expand the reach of the PODS organization throughout North America and internationally. Speak at conferences and other forums. Develop and maintain extensive professional network in the transmission, gathering and distribution sectors.
Development: Work with the senior staff and board on strategic planning, institutional development, financial growth, and expansion of membership and member services.
Management: Manage volunteer and contract staff, consultants, budget, programs, outreach communications, and oversee all general administrative matters including the budget and financial operations, contracts, audits, and grant compliance.
Communications: Oversee all communications including website content, quarterly newsletter, press releases, and publications. Provide strategic input in preparing membership communications, Board and member meetings, annual reports, promotional brochures, and other marketing materials. Be the first point of contact for new membership inquiries and general questions.

Qualifications

The PODS Association requires a professional with experience in the pipeline industry. The candidate should be comfortable supervising and managing volunteer committees, working with pipeline management and juggling multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced work environment. Candidates should possess the strategic and political savvy to strengthen and advance the organization. The organization seeks a strong executive with a collaborative leadership style and with diverse nonprofit skills, a demonstrated record of successful management and experience, high energy, tight efficiency, excellent communication skills, entrepreneurial drive, and a dynamic commitment to the PODS mission. The candidate should have the ability to think and act strategically, tactically and creatively within budget limits. A willingness to travel occasionally to attend conferences and meetings, is required. Grace, patience, imagination, good judgment, and a sense of humor are also qualities the PODS Association seeks in a successful candidate. Preference will be given to those with a record of executive management success as well as those located near Houston, Texas.

Salary and Benefits

This is a contract position, renewable annually. Contract terms will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Expected annual pay range: $48,000 to $60,000. No benefits are provided. Candidate is expected to provide computer and internet access. The position requires a minimum of 30 hours per week.

To Apply

Email cover letter, resume, and 3 references (Microsoft Word or .PDF files only) to: Daniel Colby, PODS Secretary, at colby@sentinelusa.com. NO PHONE CALLS, PLEASE.