Arizona is home to thousands of community associations, each serving as the backbone of its respective neighborhood. These HOAs/condos, comprised of dedicated volunteer boards, are viewed by courts, the IRS, and vendors as business enterprises. Their primary mission is to maintain, protect, preserve, and enhance the community’s assets—often valued in the millions of dollars. At the head of this enterprise is the board president, a role comparable to that of a CEO.

The president plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the association and providing leadership to the board of directors. Together, they are responsible for carrying out duties as required by Arizona law and the association’s governing documents. The president serves as the official spokesperson for both the board and the association, representing their decisions and maintaining relationships with homeowners and vendors, including their trusted advisors.

A president’s responsibilities are wide-ranging. They preside over meetings, ensuring they are conducted efficiently and in compliance with Arizona’s Open Meeting Law and the association’s governing documents. While many associations hire management companies to handle daily operations, the president oversees these efforts and acts as a liaison between management and the board.

While the role carries significant responsibility, it is important for presidents to remember that they cannot—and should not—do everything themselves. Delegation is key to success. A successful president works closely with fellow board members to set goals, share responsibilities, and ensure that tasks are completed efficiently. Staying organized is critical to this process; and well-prepared presidents ensure meetings run smoothly and decisions are properly documented. Clear communication with homeowners, vendors, and board members also builds trust and fosters transparency within the community.

To support both newly elected and experienced board members in navigating this often challenging role, our firm provides a variety of resources:

  • Our Cheat Sheet on Responsibilities of the President and Vice President (click HERE) provides a detailed overview of specific duties and best practices for effective leadership.
  • We also offer a more general Cheat Sheet on Board Member Roles and Responsibilities (click HERE), which outlines how each board member contributes to an association’s success.

Ultimately, while an HOA/condo president leads and guides their community association, they must do so in collaboration with their fellow board members and in adherence to the governing documents. By encouraging teamwork, maintaining accountability, and staying focused on their community’s goals, presidents can make a lasting positive impact on their neighborhoods. Mulcahy Law Firm, P.C. stands ready to assist you!