Join Our Team
Executive Director
The Executive Director is the chief executive of Downtown Lynchburg Association (DLA), a nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the vitality of Downtown Lynchburg through events, beautification, business support and marketing initiatives. This role requires a dynamic, strategic leader who can build strong relationships, drive economic development and guide a small but passionate team in advancing the organization’s mission.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
LEADERSHIP & STRATEGY
Develop and execute a strategic vision that aligns with DLA’s mission and community goals.
Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for Downtown Lynchburg.
Foster strong partnerships with city officials, business owners, property owners and community leaders.
Manage a small internal team and external contractors, ensuring a collaborative and productive work culture.
Lead the discussion and stakeholder outreach around the potential development of a downtown improvement district.
FUNDRAISING & FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Lead fundraising efforts through sponsorships, donations and grant writing.
Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board Treasurer.
Oversee organizational finances and ensure transparency and accountability in spending.
PROGRAMS & EVENTS
Oversee DLA’s signature programs and events, such as Fireworks on the Riverfront, Bright Nights Block Party, Launch LYH and Downtown Movie Nights.
Lead the planning and execution of placemaking initiatives, including Bright Nights on the Bluffwalk and all public art projects.
Support and grow programs that enhance the downtown environment, increase foot traffic and support local businesses.
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Collaborate with the Director of Marketing to guide DLA’s branding, storytelling, and promotional strategies that attract residents, visitors and investment.
Provide oversight and strategic input on the creation of print and digital content, press releases, newsletters and social media campaigns.
Support public relations efforts and represent the organization in key speaking engagements and media opportunities as needed.
BOARD RELATIONS & GOVERNANCE
Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set priorities, report progress and ensure good governance.
Support board development and recruitment efforts.
Prepare reports and materials for board meetings and serve as the staff liaison to board committees.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Any combination of education and experience that qualifies an individual may be considered in lieu of the more specific criteria listed. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
Bachelor's degree and experience in economic development, public relations, planning, organizational and project management, problem solving, consensus building, and team-oriented work required. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of these specific requirements.
A successful candidate will have:
Love for Downtown Lynchburg.
Proven leadership experience, ideally in nonprofit management, economic development, marketing or community engagement.
Strong fundraising, financial and operational management skills.
Excellent communication, relationship-building and public speaking abilities.
Knowledge of downtown development, placemaking or urban revitalization preferred.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines with limited staff resources.
Residency within the City of Lynchburg limits preferred.
COMPENSATION
Compensation for the Executive Director ranges from $75,000 - $98,000, depending upon qualifications. A generous benefit package includes: participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS), paid time off, medical, dental and vision, Employee Assistance Program, education assistance and an opportunity to contribute to a 457 Deferred Compensation Plan.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit an application, including completed supplemental questions, cover letter, and resume with three (3) professional references and two (2) personal references via the City’s website at www.lynchburgva.gov to be considered for the position.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Inquiries relating to this position may be directed to: Michelle G. Jackson, SPHR Director of Human Resources City of LynchburgTelephone: (434) 455-4202 Email: michelle.jackson@lynchburgva.gov
The City of Lynchburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
