Association CEO Index 2024 - Flipbook - Page 6
Association CEO Index 2024
6
Key findings
Association CEOs are
optimistic for the next
12 months
An overwhelming 91% of CEOs are optimistic
about their association's prospects for the next
year. They see opportunities in areas such as
membership growth, digital transformation, and
strengthening government engagement, despite
acknowledging the challenges ahead.
Resource and financial
constraints hinder
talent attraction
Only 31% of CEOs believe that managing an
association is seen as an attractive career choice
by emerging leaders. More than two in five CEOs
highlight lack of visibility, resource limitations and
low budgets as significant barriers to attracting
talent to the sector.
CEOs see opportunities in
membership growth and
digital transformation
CEOs are optimistic about opportunities for
membership growth, particularly by expanding
into new regions and leveraging technological
advancements like AI-driven tools and new
Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
systems to enhance member engagement.
Significant time spent on
administrative duties
Administrative, finance, and HR responsibilities
occupy over a quarter (26%) of an association
CEO's time. This is particularly pronounced in
professional associations, where 30.5% of CEO
time is dedicated to these functions, reflecting the
operational demands of the role.
Very high career
satisfaction among CEOs
Nearly 89% of Australian and New Zealand CEOs
report satisfaction with their role, with 48% saying
they are extremely satisfied. This high satisfaction
reflects the alignment between personal values
and the meaningful impact their work has in the
industry or profession they represent.
62%
Economic pressures
cited as the top concern
for 2024
Economic pressures, including rising costs and the
impact on membership retention, are the most
significant challenges, with 62% of CEOs rating
these issues as concerning. This concern is
especially acute among industry associations.
Membership engagement
and retention are major
priorities
Member engagement and retention are top
concerns for 31% of CEOs, reflecting the critical
importance of maintaining strong member
relationships in challenging economic conditions.
Nearly half (49%) are focusing on enhancing value
through segmentation, life cycle research
and personalisation.
Job strain and wellbeing
concerns are widespread
Job strain is a significant issue, with 84% of CEOs
indicating they frequently or occasionally lack the
time needed to perform their roles effectively.
Consequently, 70% of CEOs across all segments
report feeling run down and lacking energy.
