Executive Director-Downtown Ashland Association

Ashland; Ashland (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Virginia Retirement System (VRS)

457 deferred compensation program

Life insurance

PTO program

Job summary

The Downtown Ashland Association in Ashland, Virginia, seeks an Executive Director to lead downtown development, promote local businesses, and strengthen partnerships with the Town of Ashland and community groups.

The ideal candidate will have at least three years of leadership experience in downtown or nonprofit settings, strong relationship-building and strategic planning abilities, and a commitment to inclusivity and economic vitality.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in downtown management or nonprofit leadership.
• Experience collaborating with boards, volunteers, businesses and community partners.
• Ability to translate strategy into action and build partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for downtown development and promotional activities.
• Build partnerships with the Town of Ashland, merchants and community organizations.
• Strengthen downtown vitality, economic success and community appeal.

Skills

Relationship-building

Creative problem-solving

Community liaison

Education

Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business administration, public administration, planning, economic development, or related field

Job description

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR-Downtown Ashland Association

Downtown Ashland Association

Town of Ashland, Virginia | Full-Time Position

Help Shape the Future of Downtown Ashland!

The Town of Ashland, Virginia, is seeking an enthusiastic, community-minded, and forward-thinking Executive Director for the Downtown Ashland Association to lead initiatives that strengthen the vitality, economic success, and community appeal of downtown Ashland.

Known for its historic charm, locally owned businesses, community events, and welcoming atmosphere, Ashland offers a unique opportunity for a motivated professional to make a lasting impact. The Executive Director will help build on our downtown's strengths, support local businesses, foster community partnerships, and create new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience all that Ashland has to offer.

Position Overview

The Executive Director provides leadership, coordination, and strategic direction for downtown development and promotional activities associated with the Downtown Ashland Association. Working collaboratively with the Town of Ashland, downtown merchants, property owners, community organizations, volunteers, and regional partners, the Executive Director will advance initiatives that support a vibrant, welcoming, and economically successful downtown district.

The successful candidate will be a relationship-builder, creative problem-solver, and effective organizer who can translate ideas into action while serving as an ambassador for downtown Ashland.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business administration, public administration, planning, economic development, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

Ideal candidates will have a minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in downtown management, nonprofit leadership, economic development, community development, or a related field. Experience working with boards, volunteers, businesses, and community partners is strongly preferred.

Salary and Benefits

Starting salary range: $65,000-$85,000 DOQ-DOE

The Town of Ashland offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance
• Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• 457 deferred compensation program (up to 2% match)
• Town-sponsored life insurance
• Generous PTO program

The Town is a Richmond Times Dispatch Top Workplace award winner for the past 12 years.

The Town of Ashland is an Equal Opportunity Employer.