Requirements for Becoming a Certified Chamber Executive

Applicants are required to have at least six years of senior-level chamber management experience and be currently employed in a senior-level chamber management position.  In order to be considered a senior level manager, the applicant must manage a staff, a budget, a department, and have direct contact with the board.

In some cases, several of the required 6 years of senior-level chamber management experience may be satisfied by senior-level management experience in other membership organizations or other highly relevant professional experience. Eligibility determinations are made by the CCE Commission on a case-by-case basis. Contact the ACCE Team if you believe you have professional experience that may meet these qualifications, before submitting your application. In all cases, an applicant’s most recent two years of eligible experience must be at a chamber, and the applicant must currently be employed in a senior-level chamber management position.

Applicants must also adhere to the CCE code of ethics. Earning the CCE designation is a four-step process outlined in the Process for Earning the CCE Designation.

CCE Code of Ethics

  1. Engage in activities that are in the best interest of the community.
  2. Demonstrate inclusive practices.
  3. Develop professional skills, knowledge and relationships necessary to be an effective leader in the community.
  4. Serve and represent the organization and community responsibly.
  5. Proactively advance the chamber profession.
  6. Exemplify the highest level of professional integrity.
  7. Serve as a visionary leader.
  8. Contribute to the financial soundness of the community and organization.
  9. Practice legal methods in all personal and professional decisions and activities.
  10. Demonstrate professional excellence in all organization management practices.

CCE Code of Ethics Violation Procedures 

Supporting Documents Required with the Application

  1. Completed Application
  2. Chamber Strategic Plan – current
  3. Chamber Annual Business Plan or Program of Work – most recent year
  4. Chamber Annual Report – most recent year
  5. Annual Budget – most recent year
  6. Annual Budget – previous year
  7. Position Description
  8. Chamber Organization Chart
  9. Personnel / Policy Manual
  10. Resume
  11. Financial documents
    • Option 1: Audit – most recent year
    • Option 2: Financial review or year-end financial statement – last two years 
  12. References 
    You must provide 5 references: one CCE, preferably from your state, two community leaders, and two volunteer chairmen or presidents within the last four years. Information with respect to these references is provided on the CCE application form. Do not exceed 5 references.