Downtown Economic Development Director

City of Howell; Howell (MI); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Howell seeks an Executive Director to lead Downtown Howell as the chief executive of the Howell DDA and main driver of economic growth. You will oversee strategy, finances, and partnerships with the City, Main Street Inc., lenders, and investors.

The role requires robust leadership, data-driven decision making, and an ability to coordinate complex programs across multiple organizations to improve storefront vitality and private investment in the downtown core.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field is required.
• 3–5 years of leadership in downtown management, economic development, or non-profit work preferred.
• CMSM credential or Michigan Certified Economic Developer strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drive economic development and business attraction for Downtown Howell and manage relationships with stakeholders.
• Develop and monitor budgets, grants, and financial reporting for the DDA.
• Create a Downtown Economic Dashboard and track performance metrics regularly.
• Collaborate with City leadership, Main Street organizations, and boards to align initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Economic Development

Public Administration

CMSM Credential

Michigan Certified Economic Developer

Data-driven decision making

CRM/relationship management

Strategic planning

Team coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Marketing, or related field

Tools

Geographic Information System (GIS)

Canva

QuickBooks

Social media marketing

Office/financial software

Job description

City of Howell seeks an Executive Director to lead Downtown Howell as the chief executive of the Howell DDA and main driver of economic growth. You will oversee strategy, finances, and partnerships with the City, Main Street Inc., lenders, and investors.

The role requires robust leadership, data-driven decision making, and an ability to coordinate complex programs across multiple organizations to improve storefront vitality and private investment in the downtown core.