Association Management

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Smithbucklin and our professional association management services.

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Professional association management refers to engaging a management company to provide the executive leadership, infrastructure and day-to-day execution required to run an association. Using a management company is an alternative to a “stand-alone” association in which an individual (i.e., a CEO, President or Executive Director) is responsible for acquiring and maintaining technology and other infrastructure, and hiring and leading staff to run the organization. Both models can be effective. A management company is typically a consideration for boards seeking flexibility, expertise and infrastructure beyond what an organization can or wants to sustain on its own.

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Smithbucklin is a professional services company that helps associations operate, grow and deliver value to their members and industries. With decades of experience, we partner with organizations of all sizes and at every stage – from stabilizing operations to modernizing and accelerating growth. We bring together the executive leadership, operational expertise, and shared resources needed to help associations achieve their missions and strengthen the professions they serve.

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No. Your board, governance structure, bylaws and operating policies do not change because you are working with a management company. Working with a management company is simply an alternative method of supporting the organization with the staff, expertise and infrastructure needed to run the association day to day. The board retains its fiduciary and legal duties and remains in control of strategic direction, governance and key decisions.

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Yes. While the majority of our client organizations use us for association management, many organizations partner with Smithbucklin and Smithbucklin Companies for specific needs, including strategy and research, meetings and events, marketing, sales, education and financial management and accounting. We tailor services to meet the needs of many types of organizations, and have the structure, expertise and proven practices to deliver results.

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Smithbucklin AXP^SM a proprietary, practical tool that helps associations assess performance, align leadership and staff, and focus resources and attention on what matters most. The result is stronger service, more effective volunteer leadership and greater mission impact. AXP gives boards, staff and management company leadership insight into what’s working – and what’s not – and a shared foundation for the ongoing strategic and operational conversations needed for sustained success.

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We have headquarters in Chicago and Washington, D.C. Under a professional management arrangement, either location can serve as the association’s headquarters, with most staff serving that association based there.

Trusted Experience

Your partner in advancing your mission

Proven perspective and hands-on support to help your organization grow and move forward with confidence.

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