Executive Director: Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA)

Staunton City & Schools • Staunton, VA

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Executive Director — Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA) ?? Staunton, VA (On-site) | ?? Full-Time | ?? Executive Leadership Help drive the future of one of Virginia’s most charming and historic downtowns. The Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA) is seeking a dynamic and passionate Executive Director to champion small business success, historic preservation, community engagement, and Main Street vitality within Historic Downtown Staunton, VA. ? What You’ll Lead As Executive Director, you will:

Requirements

• Entrepreneurial, energetic, and community-focused
• Highly organized and able to manage many moving parts
• A strong communicator, collaborator, and relationship-builder
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 2+ years nonprofit or community-development management
• Experience with compliance or accreditation processes (Virginia Main Street, Main Street America, or similar standards are a strong plus)
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Grant writing and grant award management
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, donor relations, and sponsorship development
• Ability to build relationships with city officials, stakeholders and partners
• Practical experience in website maintenance, social media, and general digital outreach

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the SDDA and advocate for city stakeholders
• Manage day-to-day operations including budgeting, reports, and staff supervision
• Oversee the SDDA’s Virginia Main Street and Main Street America accreditation
• Research and prepare grant applications supporting SDDA programs and capital projects
• Cultivate sponsor, donor, and partner relations to generate financial and in-kind support
• Maintain relationships with partner organizations and city departments
• Act as a liaison to Virginia Main Street and other Main Street America communities
• Promote Staunton through marketing, storytelling, and media engagement
• Maintain SDDA digital platforms, including website & social media posts
• Track key economic data and program progress to demonstrate local impact
• Manage PR and increase public understanding of SDDA goals and accomplishments
• Advance strategies aligned with the Main Street America Program’s Four Points: Organization, Promotion, Design & Economic Vitality

Benefits

• Help shape Staunton’s future as a thriving local economy and cultural destination
• Improve Downtown Staunton for local property and business owners
• Enhance the Downtown Staunton experience for residents & visitors

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive