Economic Development/DDA Director

South Lyon Downtown Development Authority; South Lyon (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

The South Lyon Downtown Development Authority is seeking a full-time, exempt Downtown Development Director to lead economic development and coordinate the redevelopment of the historic downtown in South Lyon, MI. You will work with the business community to foster reinvestment and manage multiple initiatives.

The role requires a four-year degree, at least five years of related experience, and strong communication and office-management skills; MS Office and Excel proficiency is highly desired.

Qualifications

• Four-year college degree (or equivalent experience) in historic preservation, economic development, public administration or related field.
• Minimum five years practical experience (budgeting, marketing, design, nonprofit or DDA management)
• Must be legally able to work in the U.S.
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency in office management skills
• Microsoft Office and Excel experience strongly desired

Responsibilities

• handles the daily tasks of economic development and overseeing the Downtown Development Authority. Shapes the future of the historic downtown, coordinating redevelopment and reinvestment with the business community.
• Oversees numerous community events, farmers market and other initiatives; acts as contact for façade grants, recruiting volunteers and business recruitment & retention.
• Prepares communications and exercises professional judgment with the business community; prioritizes tasks, meets deadlines and handles multiple projects; maintains polished interpersonal skills.

Skills

oral communication

written communication

office management

Microsoft Office

Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in related field

Tools

MS Office

Excel

Job description

• Job Status: Full time salary and exempt position
• Salary:$65,000 to $72,000

Special Experience & Education:

• Four-year college degree (or equivalent experience) in one of the following areas:

historic preservation, economic development, public administration or related field

• Minimum five years practical experience (budgeting, marketing, design, nonprofit or DDA management)
• Must be legally able to work in U.S.
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency in office management skills
• Microsoft Office and Excel experience strongly desired

Job Responsibilities:

The ideal candidate handles the daily tasks of economic development and overseeing the Downtown Development Authority.This position shapes the future of the historic downtown, also coordinating the redevelopment and reinvestment of the business community.Collaborates with the business community, and oversees numerous community events, farmers market and other initiatives.Be the contact for façade grants, recruiting volunteers, and business recruitment & retention.This position will be required to prepare communications and exercise considerable personal judgment, professionalism, and proficiency in communication with the business community. A proven ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and handle multiple projects. Polished interpersonal skills and a positive attitude to handle a wide range of personalities and tasks.

Comprehensive benefits package beginning at date of hire. Benefit package includes medical, dental, life and vision insurance as well as defined contribution retirement system through MERS. The City of South Lyon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please send resume, cover letter and five references to City Manager at 335 S. Warren, South Lyon, MI48178 or [e-mail] by 4:00 pm, September 8, 2026.