Founded in 1907, the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) is the oldest petroleum trade association in the United States. WSPA represents a dynamic membership of companies at the forefront of petroleum exploration, production, refining, and transportation, as well as leaders in renewable energy and carbon management innovations. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, WSPA is committed to providing reliable and affordable energy access for all Americans. The Association advocates for policies that balance social, economic, and environmental considerations. WSPA’s approach is inclusive and data-driven, as the organization educates government leaders, the media, and the public. WSPA strives to ensure informed policy decisions that will secure a vibrant and sustainable energy future for all.

THE OPPORTUNITY

WSPA is seeking a strategic, visionary, and dynamic individual to step into the role of President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The President & CEO of the WSPA will serve as the organization’s top executive, responsible for the overall strategic and operational leadership of the Association. Under the direction of the Board of Directors, the President will oversee all administrative and business affairs of WSPA, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and objectives. This includes the authority to execute official documents and represent the Association in legal, financial, and operational matters. The President will be expected to uphold the responsibilities typically associated with the chief executive of a corporation, including organizational governance, compliance, and performance management.

In addition to managing internal operations, the President & CEO will be WSPA’s chief advocate and spokesperson, shaping and advancing policy priorities across the five western states the Association serves. The CEO will build strong relationships with industry leaders, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and other key stakeholders to influence the energy policy landscape in a way that supports the long-term sustainability and growth of the petroleum industry. The role requires an influential leader who can unite a diverse membership, lead a high-performing team, and drive a forward-thinking agenda that positions WSPA as a trusted voice in regional and national energy discussions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

External Responsibilities

The President & CEO serves as the primary external representative of WSPA, leading advocacy efforts, shaping public and political narratives, and building key relationships to advance the interests of the petroleum industry across the western United States.

• Serve as the face and voice of WSPA, acting as the chief spokesperson and public champion of the Association’s mission, brand, and policy priorities.

• Set and implement the strategic vision and action plans of the Association in collaboration with the Board, Government Affairs Committee, and Senior Leadership Team.

• Lead advocacy and lobbying efforts at the state and regional levels, engaging directly with policymakers, regulatory agencies, the media, and public audiences.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior government officials, industry executives, trade associations, environmental groups, labor unions, and other key stakeholders.

• Develop and strengthen strategic coalitions and alliances to support industry positions and drive legislative or regulatory outcomes.

• Promote and oversee the WSPA Associates Program to enhance stakeholder engagement and industry alignment.

• Act as an industry educator, helping external audiences understand the petroleum sector and its role in the economy and energy landscape.

Internal Responsibilities

As the chief executive, the CEO will also be responsible for the overall leadership, financial health, operational excellence, and organizational effectiveness of the Association, ensuring alignment with its mission and strategic objectives. With a ~$36M organizational budget and a ~35-person team, the CEO will:

• Serve as an ex officio member of the Board of Directors and member of multiple key committees, including Compensation, Audit, Legal, and Refining Committees.

• Report directly to the Board and provide regular updates on the Association’s performance, advocacy priorities, and strategic initiatives.

• Oversee organizational planning, financial management, and resource allocation, including approval of all contracts and annual budgets.

• Empower a strong Executive Leadership Team, providing guidance on key initiatives, and supporting staff performance management, including executive evaluations and compensation decisions.

• Ensure compliance with all governance, legal, and fiduciary responsibilities, including acting as signatory for all authorized legal and financial instruments.

• Identify and manage strategic issues impacting WSPA across state and regional lines, ensuring a proactive and forward-looking organizational approach.

• Direct efforts in member recruitment, engagement, and retention to ensure a strong and unified membership base.

• Chair the Investment Policy Committee and serve as trustee of WSPA’s benefit and financial programs, maintaining fiduciary oversight and strategic investment decisions.

KEY SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will be an accomplished leader with deep experience in energy policy, a sophisticated understanding of the petroleum industry, and the ability to navigate complex political and regulatory environments with credibility and impact.

Experience and Industry Knowledge

• A minimum of 20 years of senior-level experience in a relevant field, with strong preference for a background in the oil and petroleum industry.

• Demonstrated experience working with or within trade associations, industry coalitions, or member-driven organizations.

• Broad understanding of the petroleum sector, including upstream and downstream operations, and related regulatory and legislative processes.

• Familiarity with global energy dynamics, particularly those affecting the U.S. West Coast and international markets.

• Knowledge of association governance, financial oversight, and organizational management best practices.

• Experience leading or serving on external boards or associations; certification in executive leadership or business programs is preferred.

Leadership and Communication Competencies

• Exceptional communicator with strong public speaking, media engagement, and advocacy skills; must be “camera-ready” and able to represent a diverse industry in public, political, and regulatory forums.

• Proven ability to lead with integrity, build consensus, and navigate high-stakes negotiations involving multiple stakeholders.

• Politically astute, with the ability to manage sensitive policy issues and maintain bipartisan relationships at the state and federal levels.

• Strong organizational, strategic planning, and decision-making capabilities, especially under pressure and in dynamic, fast-changing environments.

• Adept at facilitating high-level meetings and managing complex initiatives with competing priorities and significant political dimensions.

• Collaborative team builder who fosters a culture of partnership, accountability, and service within a member-driven, staff-powered organization.

• Skilled in financial oversight, budget management, and aligning resources with strategic goals.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s Degree required; engineering or environmental science majors preferred.

Master’s or Doctoral Degree preferred.

TRAVEL

This position requires 75% percent travel. Frequent evening and weekend work is required.