Executive Director

MOUNT VERNON DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION

Executive Director Job Description

The following information provides an overview of the skills, qualities, and qualifications needed for this role.

MVDA Mission Statement

The Mount Vernon Downtown Association strengthens the economic vitality of our historic downtown, the heart of Mount Vernon, by supporting small businesses, attracting investment, and creating experiences that bring our community together.

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.

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 

Starting salary at $83,000 DOE. 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 

We're excited to announce that the Mount Vernon Downtown Association is accepting applications for our next Executive Director through October 21, 2026. This is an exceptional opportunity for someone who loves community, thrives in collaborative environments, and wants to help shape the next chapter of Downtown Mount Vernon.

If this role speaks to you, or you know someone who might be the perfect fit, please use the link below to submit an application. xhyhwjd

Have questions? Reach out to MVDA Board President Sheena at