Business North Carolina: The North Carolina Dental Society Names New Executive Director and CEO

Apr 18, 2024
The North Carolina Dental Society Board of Trustees has named James Goodman, CMP, CAE, as its new executive director and chief executive officer.

Cary, NC- Following a comprehensive national search, The North Carolina Dental Society (NCDS) Board of Trustees has named James Goodman, CMP, CAE, as its new executive director and chief executive officer.

Goodman spent the past 14 years in executive leadership at the American Dental Association (ADA) in Chicago, where, most recently, he served as chief business strategy and product portfolio officer. He brings decades of experience in revenue growth, leadership, business innovation, product development, and strategic assessment.

“As a key member of the ADA’s executive staff, Jim’s vast experience will be an invaluable asset as he steps in this new role,” said Dr. Chuck Norman, past-president of both the ADA and North Carolina Dental Society. “I am confident he will bring an innovative approach to association management while honoring the rich tradition of the NCDS of focusing on member value through outstanding customer service and excellent products and services.”

When Goodman assumes the role March 11, he will lead three organizations ­— The North Carolina Dental Society, which serves nearly 4,000 member dentists, The NC Dental Society Foundation, and North Carolina Services for Dentistry.

“It is with humility, honor, and excitement that I begin this leadership role with this longstanding, successful organization,” said Goodman. I cannot wait to work with the strong staff team serving members, future members, and other stakeholders in improving the oral and overall health of North Carolinians.”

Goodman holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. He has also earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) and the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credentials.

In March 2023, Dr. M. Alec Parker retired after 16 years as executive director of the organization. Since then, Dr. Kenneth M. Sadler, MPA, MAGD, FACD, FICD, FADI, has been serving as interim executive director.

“On behalf of the North Carolina Dental Society, we welcome Jim as our new CEO, said Dr. Robert Stowe,” president of the North Carolina Dental Society. “We are excited to have him onboard and look forward to great things that we’ll accomplish for the dental profession.”

About The North Carolina Dental Society 

The North Carolina Dental Society was founded in 1856 and remains one of the oldest dental societies in the country. Representing approximately 4,000 member dentists across the state, NCDS’s mission is to help all members succeed. The NC Dental Society is part of the American Dental Association, the nation's largest dental association. For more information, visit ncdental.org.