Jim Murphy, Executive Director for National Association of Regulatory Administration (NARA) and Management HQ team member, shares his leadership wisdom and lessons-learned.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who aspires to an executive director-level association leader?
A: In association leadership, keep listening and learning! Sometimes leaders think that people expect them to have all the answers. Truly great association leaders know they don’t know everything. They continually strive to improve, and ask questions to develop insight.
Staying open to learning from those at all levels within your organization, and from those who your organization serves, is imperative for association executives.
Finally, lead by example. Do what it takes – including the unpleasant, unrecognized tasks. Roll up your sleeves and work side-by-side with your team when you need to. And, of course, never ask someone to do something you aren’t willing to help do yourself.
Q: What attracted you to the association world?
A: Associations help others succeed. I came to the association management world with quite a few years of experience in a wide variety of organizations and industries. My association work allows me the opportunity to give back. I also enjoy working on a supportive team in an active and dynamic environment. Creativity is encouraged and nurtured, with the goal being effectively serving others.
Q: What does leadership and being a leader means to you?
A: I see true leadership as leading by supporting and recognizing others, and ensuring they have the tools and resources to shine. It is about the team rather than the leader. It can mean providing support through struggles and difficult times. Often, these challenges are a chance to learn, grown from one another, and build the cohesiveness of the team.
Q: What do you like to do during your non-working hours?
A: I enjoy the time with family and friends, and running and hiking. I run half- and full marathons, Warrior Dashes and Tough Mudder races, as well as Ragnar relays and triathlons. Staying active clears my head and keeps me focused and creative for work. I strive for balance. I also like to bake and cook, adding my own flair. And sometimes the recipe actually turns out pretty good!
Q: How do you give back to the community?
A: This is my 18th year participating and 15th year co-chairing the Fairport-Perinton Chemical Prevention Advisory Council (CPAC). CPAC’s works in partnership with families, schools, students, community groups, government agencies, and law enforcement to reduce the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs by our youth. I also volunteer with Holiday Outreach on behalf of children in the Rochester-Monroe County, NY. I help buy, wrap and deliver holiday presents. I also work at fundraisers.
About Management HQ
Management HQ (MHQ) is an accredited, full-service association management company headquartered in Minneapolis. Driven by the vision of a thriving, vibrant community, MHQ provides management services and infrastructure to statewide, regional, national and international professional and trade associations. Specializing in the human services sector, MHQ primarily serves mental and primary healthcare associations; identity-based groups; and associations in the education and information services industries. MHQ is driven by our four core values of Compassion, Openness, Service and Integrity. For more, visit www.management-hq.com.
