Executive Director - Downtown Ashland Association

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Virginia Retirement System (VRS)

457 deferred compensation program (up

Job summary

The Town of Ashland seeks an Executive Director for the Downtown Ashland Association to lead initiatives that strengthen downtown vitality, economic success, and community appeal.

Ideal candidates will have at least three years in downtown management or nonprofit leadership, a strong track record working with boards, volunteers, businesses, and partners, and a degree in marketing, business, public admin, planning, or related fields. This full-time role offers a competitive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, business administration, public administration, planning, economic development, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in downtown management, nonprofit leadership, economic development, or community development.
• Experience working with boards, volunteers, businesses, and community partners is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, coordination, and strategic direction for downtown development and promotional activities.
• Collaborate with the Town of Ashland, downtown merchants, property owners, and regional partners to advance initiatives that foster a vibrant, welcoming and economically successful downtown.
• Serve as an ambassador for downtown Ashland and build community partnerships.

Skills

Relationship-building

Strategic planning

Communication

Organization

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing/Communications/Business Admin/Public Admin/Planning/Economic Development

Job description

Executive Director

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

Bachelors 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.

Salary/Compensation: $65,000 - $85,000 per year