Downtown Development Authority Director

Ada Township is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Downtown Development Authority Director.

Ada Township, population 14,391, is a world-class community located just 12 miles to the east of Grand Rapids. Ada residents are very proud of their unparalleled amenities. From Legacy Park to the 1867 Covered Bridge, Ada is the type of community that attracts all walks of life. With quaint neighborhoods, award-winning schools, a regional trail system and easy access to the big city, Ada is one of Michigan’s premier communities. The Ada Village area is nearing completion of a major physical transformation that will retain the traditional small-town character of the historic Village core, while replacing its 1970’s-era shopping center with a walkable, mixed-use environment with traditional urban form.

Essential Position Functions

• Develop, implement, and administer plans, programs, and special events organized by the DDA to promote the economic vitality of the DDA district.
• Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, with DDA and Township officials, current and prospective property and business owners in the DDA district, non-profit organizations, the public, and other stakeholders regarding matters relating to DDA plans, projects, and programs.
• Analyze budgetary matters and develop a recommended annual operating budget for presentation to the DDA Board for approval.
• Organize and carry out the DDA’s communications program with important community stakeholders, including other Township boards and commissions, the business community, the non-profit community, residents within the DDA district, the public, and broadcast and print media, including the use of social media and website content.
• Interact effectively with the planning and zoning department in developing and implementing appropriate strategies for meeting current and future parking needs in the Ada Village area, including developing and managing public parking and efficiently using privately owned parking.
• Oversee the operation of the Ada Farmers Market, including vendor recruitment, marketing, communication, and event day operations. 
• Manage and administer DDA contracts for goods and services.
• Coordinate with the Buildings, Facilities, & Grounds Department on downtown infrastructure needs.
• Responsible for identifying, overseeing, and providing training to support staff, ensuring they are effectively integrated into the team and supported in their professional development. 
• Review and evaluate requests for DDA financial support of non-profit community events and programs.
• Act as liaison between the DDA and the Ada Business Association, Discover Ada, and other community stakeholder groups.
• Prepare and disseminate monthly DDA Board meeting agendas and meeting materials.
• Attend all meetings of the DDA Board and DDA Citizens Council and attend meetings of the Township Board on an as-needed basis.
• Review, edit, and correct DDA Board and Citizens Council meeting draft minutes before presentation for approval.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business or public administration, urban & regional planning, non-profit management, marketing, or a closely related field.
• Three years or more of experience in one or more of the following areas: community planning, urban design, economic development, business, marketing, finance, grant writing, public relations, and project management.
• Basic downtown development planning, municipal infrastructure, and public finance knowledge.
• Ability to meet numerous deadlines, concentrate, scrutinize project or work details, organize, prioritize, schedule work independently, and produce quality work in a timely and efficient manner.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, officials, applicants, community groups, residents, professionals, and representatives of the public and other agencies.
• Proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software.
• A valid State of Michigan driver’s license, satisfactory driving record, and the ability to maintain one throughout employment.

A brochure with additional information regarding the position can be found at http://adamichigan.org/township/government/job-postings.

To apply, please send your cover letter, resume, and five professional references to Julius Suchy, Township Manager, at jsuchy@adatownshipmi.com.

Ada Township is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are proud to be anequal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (includingpregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information,veteran status, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are made based onqualifications, merit, and business needs.