Executive Director, Downtown Development & Economic Growth

City of St Joseph; Belleville (MI); On-site; USD 28,000 - 55,000; Part time

Job summary

The Belleville Downtown Development Authority is seeking a part-time Executive Director to lead economic development, marketing, and district operations in Belleville, Michigan.

The role focuses on representing the DDA to businesses, government, developers, and the community. You will oversee planning, budgeting, communications, and events while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. This position offers flexible hours and community impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in public administration, business administration, or related field.
• Experience in DDA operations or municipal government.
• Background in grant writing, marketing, and economic development.
• Knowledge of local/state regulations and Open Meetings Act preferred.
• MiPDM certificate is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Belleville DDA and promote economic growth to businesses, government, organizations and current DDA District owners.
• Support communications, meetings, training, and events to attract new businesses and developers.
• Be available for open communications with existing DDA owners, citizens and stakeholders via in-person, email, telephone and social media.
• Provide detailed analysis of regional and local proposed developments, including financial, environmental, regulatory and legal implications.
• Develop and maintain relationships with developers and realtors to market the DDA district.
• Maintain an inventory of all properties within the DDA District and present benefits to prospects.
• Ensure all DDA activities comply with Open Meeting Act and FOIA.
• Evaluate and prepare DDA initiatives and budgets; prepare agendas and minutes.
• Lead marketing plans across print, social media, and cross-marketing with other municipalities; report successes to the Board.
• Oversee budget development, monitoring, and reporting; ensure on-time completion of supplier/contractor activities.
• Monitor legislation and regulations affecting the DDA and adjust plans accordingly.
• Possess and manage annual budget, and present adjustments as needed.
• Attend events and support local organizations to promote Belleville and the DDA district.

Skills

DDA operations

Municipal government

Grant writing

Marketing

Economic development

Driver's license

Public administration

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in public administration / business administration

MiPDM certificate preferred

Job description

The Belleville Downtown Development Authority is seeking a part-time Executive Director to lead economic development, marketing, and district operations in Belleville, Michigan.

The role focuses on representing the DDA to businesses, government, developers, and the community. You will oversee planning, budgeting, communications, and events while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. This position offers flexible hours and community impact.