Position Summary

The Executive Director is the senior staff leader of the Mount Vernon Downtown Association

(MVDA), hired by and accountable to the Board of Directors, and reports to the Board through

the President. Under MVDA's bylaws, the Board manages the affairs of the Association,

formulates its policy, and is responsible for its finances. Within the policies, annual work plan,

and budget adopted by the Board, the Executive Director is responsible for the day-to-day

operation of the organization, implementation of Board-adopted strategy, and supervision of

staff, contractors, and volunteers.

This role oversees downtown revitalization efforts using the Main Street Approach®,

strengthens partnerships with businesses and community stakeholders, and ensures MVDA's

mission is carried out with professionalism, transparency, and measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategic Direction

● Recommend strategic priorities and long-term goals to the Board, and implement the

strategic plan, annual work plan, and policies the Board adopts.

● Implement the Main Street Approach® across the Four Points: Economic Vitality, Design,

Promotion, and Organization.

● Develop annual work plans, budgets, and performance measures in collaboration with the

Board of Directors.

● Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for MVDA.

Board Relations & Governance

● Support the Board of Directors by providing timely information, recommendations, and

strategic guidance.

● Ensure compliance with bylaws, nonprofit regulations, and Washington State reporting

requirements.

● Submit annual goals aligned to the mission for Board approval at the start of each fiscal

year, and report progress against them throughout the year. The Executive Director is

reviewed annually by the Board against those goals.

Community & Business Engagement

● Build strong relationships with downtown businesses, property owners, civic partners, City

of Mount Vernon staff, and regional organizations.

● Conduct regular outreach to understand business needs, emerging issues, and

opportunities for collaboration.

● Represent MVDA at community meetings, public hearings, and regional Main Street

events.

Membership & Association Administration

● Maintain the official membership roll, process membership applications and resignations,

and administer annual dues as set by the Board.

● Ensure members receive all notices required by the bylaws within the required

timeframes, including notice of the annual meeting no fewer than 30 days in advance.

● Administer the annual meeting of the membership and the election of Directors in

accordance with the bylaws, including ballot preparation and mailing, receipt and secure

handling of returned ballots, tallying with the nominating committee, and meeting logistics

and notice.

Economic Vitality & Program Management

● Lead initiatives that strengthen downtown's economic health, including business retention,

recruitment, and support programs.

● Manage façade improvement programs, small-business assistance, and downtown data

collection.

● Oversee placemaking projects, beautification efforts, and infrastructure partnerships.

● Evaluate each event and program annually against mission fit and financial contribution,

and recommend to the Board what to continue, change, or retire.

Marketing, Events & Promotion

● Oversee MVDA's marketing strategy, brand identity, and communication channels.

● Plan and execute downtown events that drive foot traffic, community pride, and economic

activity.

● Manage media relations, newsletters, social media, and public messaging.

Fundraising & Financial Management

● Develop and manage the annual budget for Board approval; ensure responsible financial

stewardship.

● Lead fundraising efforts including sponsorships, grants, donor cultivation, and

membership programs.

● Provide monthly budget-to-actual reporting to the Board and the Treasurer, and maintain

the underlying financial records

Administration & Operations

● Oversee daily operations, staff supervision, contractors, and volunteers.

● Maintain organizational records, policies, and reporting systems.

● Ensure compliance with state and federal nonprofit regulations.

Qualifications

Required

● Demonstrated leadership experience in nonprofit management, community development,

economic development, or related fields.

● Event management, marketing, or public relations experience.

● Strong communication, relationship-building, and public-speaking skills.

● Experience managing budgets, grants, and fundraising initiatives.

● Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and solve problems creatively.

Preferred

● Familiarity with the Main Street Approach® and Washington State Main Street Program.

● Experience working with small businesses, local government, or community

organizations.

● Knowledge of downtown revitalization, urban planning, or economic development

principles.

● Grant writing experience.

Working Conditions

● Full‑time salaried, exempt position.

● Some evening and weekend work required for events and meetings.

● Occasional outdoor work for events, beautification projects, and site visits.

Compensation

Compensation is determined by the Board of Directors and may include salary, benefits, and

professional development support. The final package will reflect experience, organizational

budget, and regional nonprofit standards.

How to Apply

Candidates should submit a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references to

board@mountvernondowntown.org.

Applications will be reviewed until October 31st, 2026