Executive Director at Downtown Springfield Association

Position Overview

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Downtown Springfield Association (DSA) in Springfield, Missouri. This individual provides visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for programs, partnerships, and advocacy efforts that advance Downtown Springfield as a vibrant place to live, work, play, and invest. Reporting to the Downtown Springfield Association Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for ensuring organizational sustainability, managing staff, cultivating strong stakeholder relationships, and positioning DSA as a best-in-class organization.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and implement the long-term vision, mission, and strategic plan for DSA in partnership with the DSA Board of Directors; the Downtown Springfield Community Improvement District Board of Directors, and the Downtown Council of Champions.
• Track, report and communicate progress through measurable outcomes aligned with organizational goals including key economic development metrics and project outcomes.
• Identify emerging opportunities, trends, and challenges impacting downtown development and position DSA to capitalize on them.

Advocacy & Public Policy

• Serve as the primary advocate for Downtown Springfield with local, regional, and state officials.
• Build relationships with policymakers, civic leaders, and community organizations to advance policies that support downtown vibrancy, economic development, and urban livability.
• Represent DSA in regional and national downtown networks (e.g., International Downtown Association, Main Street America).

Organizational Management

• Provide day-to-day management of DSA staff, contractors, and volunteers.
• Ensure financial health of the organization through responsible budgeting, fundraising, and diversified revenue streams (including sponsorships, grants, and memberships/investors).
• Manage compliance, governance, and board relations, ensuring effective communication and engagement.

Economic & Community Development

• Lead efforts to recruit, retain, and expand businesses in downtown Springfield. Drive initiatives that support downtown businesses, attract investment, and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• Develop and execute strategies to attract investment, enhance the business climate, and create a thriving economic ecosystem.
• Work with developers, property owners, and investors to catalyze redevelopment projects and adaptive reuse. Proactively negotiate, structure, and close deals with developers, investors, and business owners that contribute to downtown growth.
• Identify and secure funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships that support organizational and community goals.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Serve as the primary ambassador and spokesperson for Downtown Springfield, building strong relationships with business leaders, property owners, city officials, and community partners.
• Represent DSA at public meetings, civic organizations, and regional economic development initiatives.
• Increase the profile of DSA’s brand and visibility of the organization. Communicate effectively with members, stakeholders, and the public to promote DSA’s mission and economic impact.
• Develop and implement marketing, branding, and promotion strategies that position downtown as a premier destination for commerce, culture, and community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, economic development, planning, nonprofit management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in nonprofit, downtown management, economic development, real estate, business development, urban planning, or related sector.
• Proven track record of closing deals that result in business growth, investment, or community impact.
• Strong negotiation, financial, strategic planning and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, sponsorship development, or CID/TIF management.
• Experience working with boards, elected officials, and diverse stakeholders.
• Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and public speaking abilities.
• Passion for placemaking, community building, and economic vitality.
• Knowledge of downtown revitalization, urban development, and public/private partnerships is highly desirable.

Key Attributes

• Visionary leader who can balance big-picture strategy with operational execution.
• Relationship-builder who fosters trust across business, civic, and community partners.
• Creative problem-solver with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Collaborative, transparent, and adaptable.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience