The International Association of Professional Farriers (IAPF) is seeking candidates to succeed its long-time executive director.

Bryan Quinsey, who has been the executive director of the nonprofit farrier association since its inception as the American Association of Professional Farriers in 2011, announced in July his intention to retire at the end of January 2022.

“With the International Hoof-Care Summit being planned for January 2022, it will be a great time for the IAPF to celebrate its 10th anniversary,” Quinsey wrote in a July 18, 2021, Facebook post. “Plans are already in work for a celebration that all members will enjoy. Special thanks to all members and supporters for 10 great years as your executive director.”

While preparations continue for the association’s anniversary and passing of the torch, Board is actively seeking Quinsey’s successor.

“The International Association of Professional Farriers is eager to identify a visionary executive who is prepared to build upon the current successes of the association,” according to Dr. Frank Reilly, vice president of the IAPF Board of Directors. “The successful candidate will serve as the executive director of IAPF, leading the strategic direction set by the board of directors and overseeing the operations and activities of the association.”

In addition, the IAPF is seeking an individual who demonstrates “a decisive, yet collaborative leadership style along with an entrepreneurial drive, a passion for business success and exemplary communication skills. They will bring a track record of innovative and strategic leadership experience in an international and multi-faceted institution with varied internal and external constituencies and stakeholders.”

The qualifications are below.

  • The executive director must be an inspiring and inclusive leader, with the ability to motivate board members, volunteers and partners across all areas that IAPF touches. This person will bring an effective and innovative approach in partnering with the board. They will be highly approachable, an engaging speaker and an eager listener. They will be a natural team builder, bringing energy, optimism and a drive to lead IAPF into its second decade of existence. The executive director will have demonstrated a high level of achievement in developing and implementing strategy, building the financial (with an emphasis on membership recruitment and retention), operational and ideological support for its implementation while skillfully balancing and aligning the needs of multiple interests.
  • The executive director will be committed to the IAPF mission and vision while demonstrating proven leadership experience.
  • A successful candidate will have a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in association/non-profit leadership and management roles (executive director, deputy executive director, membership director, etc.) They must have experience leading a global organization with a comprehensive portfolio of products and services.
  • A proven track record of working successfully with a mission-driven organization to lead and develop strategic goals including growing organizational revenue and value.
  • A business mindset, including financial management, budget preparation and implementation and forecasting.
  • Relationship building skills to cultivate and maintain engagement with member organizations and volunteers.
  • Effective presentation and public speaking skills.
  • Proficiency with Apple/Mac or Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Knowledge of the equine (horse) industry would be beneficial.
  • Additionally, the executive director will: 
  • Review and enhance a new member welcome and orientation plan that includes a thorough orientation to IAPF resources and member benefits.
  • Develop and implement a membership retention plan in collaboration with board members and other partners.
  • Track user statistics on all platforms (website, social media, etc.) and use it to make recommendations to the board.
  • Maintain and enhance the IAPF website and membership database using CRM.
  • Work in cooperation with sister organizations to enhance the IAPF’s presence and focus on providing continuing education to its members and others in the equine industry.
  • Ideally, the position will be headquartered in the residence of the executive director. With members located throughout the world, the executive director will need to have access to high-speed internet and other mobile forms of communication. A computer and cell phone will be provided, along with other items needed to operate an efficient office.
  • Compensation will be based on experience.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally (Australia and Canada).
  • Some evenings may be required for monthly video conference calls with the board.

To apply, please submit a résumé and letter of interest to Reilly at farrieriapfexecdir@aol.com.

Specifics on salary, vacation time and hours will be provided after your résumé has been received. The application deadline is Oct. 31, 2021.