Executive Director

Executive Director Job Description

Main Street / District Development Organization

(Wisconsin Nonprofit 501(c)(3))

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the organization, responsible for implementing the mission, vision, economic development initiatives, fundraising strategy, marketing efforts, stakeholder engagement, and operational management of the nonprofit.

This role will lead efforts to strengthen the district through business development, placemaking, tourism, events, beautification initiatives, community partnerships, sponsorships, and strategic economic growth.

The Executive Director reports directly to the Board of Directors and serves as the public face of the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

• Execute the strategic vision established by the Board of Directors
• Build and maintain strong relationships with businesses, property owners, municipalities, tourism organizations, and community stakeholders
• Serve as the organization’s primary spokesperson and ambassador
• Develop annual operating plans and measurable organizational goals
• Support and coordinate board meetings, committees, and strategic initiatives

Fundraising & Revenue Development

• Lead sponsorship sales and partnership development
• Pursue grants, donations, and corporate support opportunities
• Develop sustainable recurring revenue streams
• Build long-term financial sustainability plans
• Manage donor and sponsor relationships

Economic & Community Development

• Support district business attraction and retention efforts
• Collaborate with local businesses on promotions and district-wide initiatives
• Assist with beautification, placemaking, and wayfinding projects
• Coordinate community activation opportunities and events
• Advocate for district improvements and infrastructure enhancements

Marketing & Communications

• Oversee branding and district identity initiatives
• Manage social media, public relations, and promotional campaigns
• Coordinate district marketing strategies with business stakeholders
• Develop tourism and visitor engagement initiatives
• Maintain website and communication platforms

Financial & Administrative Oversight

• Develop and manage annual budgets
• Maintain financial accountability and reporting standards
• Oversee bookkeeping, accounting coordination, and compliance filings
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and nonprofit regulations
• Manage vendor and contractor relationships

Event & Program Management

• Coordinate district events, festivals, and activations
• Support collaborative programming between stakeholders
• Manage logistics, sponsorship fulfillment, and operational execution
• Evaluate event ROI and community impact

Qualifications

Preferred Experience

• 5+ years of leadership experience in one or more of the following:
• Community development
• Nonprofit management
• Economic development
• Destination marketing
• Event management
• Chamber/Main Street organizations
• Hospitality, tourism, or entertainment industries

Skills & Competencies

• Strong relationship-building and networking skills
• Proven fundraising or sponsorship sales experience
• Excellent communication and public speaking abilities
• Budgeting and financial management understanding
• Strategic planning capabilities
• Project management and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Entrepreneurial and community-minded mindset

Preferred Characteristics

• Passion for community development and district growth
• Strong local relationship-building ability
• Creative thinker with strong execution skills
• Comfortable working with both public and private sector stakeholders
• High-energy, visible community presence

Reporting Structure

• Reports to: Board of Directors
• Supervises:
• Future staff
• Contractors
• Volunteers
• Event personnel
• Marketing vendors

Pay: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person