We are currently looking for a new Executive Director to lead our organization. Interested applicants may submit their cover letter and resume to board member Kelli Schaunaman at kelli@productionmonkeys.com.

Executive Director

Our organization is seeking an experienced leader to champion our ongoing downtown revitalization. The ideal candidate will be capable of supervising a small team, planning outdoor events, managing a variety of relationships, supporting economic development and leading our organization in a highly energetic and professional manner. Aberdeen, South Dakota is a growing community of nearly 30K people and a centrally located hub of cultural, retail and employment opportunities. In recent years downtown Aberdeen has benefited from significant investment in both historic properties and new projects.

Responsibilities

  • Membership Development and Fundraising – Oversee sponsor package development, outreach to cultivate and nurture positive relationships, submit grant proposals and funding requests as well as administer fundraising records and documentation.
  • Community and Public Relations – Assure the organization, its mission, and community impact are consistently presented in a strong, positive image to relevant stakeholders. Engage leaders at all levels of government and community.
  • Event Planning – Work in conjunction with downtown property owners, businesses, non-profit organizations and volunteers to effectively budget and plan a variety of events that support Aberdeen’s downtown district. The Summer Concert Series and Sizzlin’ Summer Nights are core annual events drawing 1000+ people each. Other annual favorites include a Wine Walk, Trick or Treat on Main and Downtown Days.
  • Financial Governance – Develop and recommend an annual budget for Board approval and manage monthly income and expenses through QuickBooks. Work with the Finance Committee to execute annual audit or review.
  • Board Administration – Engage with the Board President and board committees to execute organizational goals and recruit new members. Provide reports for meetings and facilitate strategic discussions of the organization’s future. Work with board committees as necessary to execute identified action items.
  • People Management – Lead a non-profit organization, including volunteers, board and staff. Hire and supervise staff and volunteers as organization resources allow in consultation with appropriate Board members and committees. Conduct staff reviews, provide supervision and feedback as needed.

Qualifications/Experience

• Four-year degree in business, public administration, or similar field or equivalent experience
• Previous experience in nonprofit management, public administration, event planning or related field is helpful
• Previous experience managing a team of staff or volunteers
• Self-starter who takes initiative
• Effective collaborator, strong leadership, creative and independent thinking
• Excellence in problem-solving and organizational skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking
• Working understanding of business management, budget development and finances

Additional Requirements

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Workspace and QuickBooks
• Occasional lifting of 50+ pounds

Accountability

This role reports to the Board of Directors of the Aberdeen Downtown Association. This is a full-time, salaried position where the typical week is 40 hours, however, events will require work on nights and some weekends.

About Us

The Aberdeen Downtown Association is a 501(c6) nonprofit in Aberdeen, South Dakota devoted to creating a vital and inviting downtown district. We serve as a mechanism to implement district-wide marketing, programs, events and projects for the benefit of all the businesses within the heart of Aberdeen. The organization is supported by a board of downtown stakeholders.

Close date: November 15, 2022