EXECUTIVE SEARCH:
TRAVERSE CITY
DDA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Are you a visionary leader ready to shape the future of one of Michigan's most vibrant downtowns? Join us as our next Executive Director for the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority (DDA), where you'll have the opportunity to drive transformative projects, foster collaborative partnerships, and champion the continued growth and sustainability of downtown Traverse City.

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Organization Description: Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City, Michigan, embodies exceptional living with its flourishing wine and beer industry, robust economy, and breathtaking natural beauty. Traverse City's downtown area serves as the region's cultural hub, pulsating with energy and creativity. The Traverse City DDA plays a pivotal role in shaping the city's future, ensuring that downtown Traverse City remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come. Rooted in a rich history of economic evolution and community collaboration, the DDA is committed to promoting economic growth and vitality, historic preservation, and sustainable development principles to create a world-class downtown that is active, thriving, and inclusive.

The DDA’s vision is guided by its principles of supporting job growth, preserving small businesses, and advancing sustainability. The DDA remains dedicated to ensuring downtown Traverse City remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.

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Position Summary: As the Executive Director at the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority, you will serve as the catalyst, advocate, and keeper of the downtown vision set by the DDA Board of Directors. Key responsibilities of this role include spearheading strategic endeavors, engaging with stakeholders, supervising DDA personnel, managing financial operations, and nurturing partnerships with community organizations.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate outstanding interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence, be adept in conflict resolution, and have a collaborative mindset. The preferred applicant will showcase their proficiency in cultivating connections, executing open and clear communication, managing relationships, and inspiring individuals to work together towards a common goal. Leadership marked by empathy and a commitment to team and community development is essential for this position.

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The starting salary for this position will begin at $125,000+ depending on qualifications. This position is an in-person role. To view the full job description, click here.

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Minimum Qualifications: While the below qualifications are preferred, they are not the only indicators of success in this role. The Traverse City DDA is open to considering candidates who meet most of the requirements, providing the necessary support to help them excel in the position and develop their professional skills. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job.

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• A bachelor’s degree with major course work in business or public administration, non-profit management, urban and regional planning, historic preservation, tourism, marketing, or a closely related field.

• Five to seven years of administrative experience in the same or related field with strong foundations in communications, marketing, strategic planning, economic development, grant writing, community planning and public relations. Experience working with a board of directors preferred, but not required. An equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible experience may be considered.

• Exhibited strength in leading and adapting to change, organizational development, team building, the capacity to balance short-term needs versus long-term strategy/vision, and the ability to delegate to and empower employees, volunteers, and board members culminating in a mission driven and outcomes motivated environment.

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of downtown development principles, community engagement, collaborative partnerships, professional management, and outreach.

• Strong communication, relationship development, emotional intelligence, and political acumen.

 

Top Benefits and Perks: As a member of the Traverse City Downtown Development Authority (DDA) team, you'll enjoy-

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• Employer Retirement Contribution: 10% employer contribution to a 457-retirement plan.

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid time off and short-term leave.

• Opportunity for Relocation Package: For exemplary candidates relocating from outside the Greater Traverse City Region.

 

Location: The position is located in picturesque Traverse City, Michigan, where you will have a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities, a thriving arts and culture scene, top-rated schools, and a healthy lifestyle supported by locally sourced food and recreational opportunities. Traverse City's downtown area, where the DDA office resides, serves as the heart of the city and region, making it an ideal location to live, work, and raise a family.

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