What are the responsibilities and job description for the Main Street Manager position at Hillsboro TX Economic Development Corporation?
The City of Hillsboro is looking for a motivated professional to lead the Main Street Program, which supports our vibrant and welcoming downtown. This individual will, utilizing Main Street America’s Four-Point Approach, collaborate with businesses, residents, and other stakeholders in thoughtfully planning for future growth while preserving Hillsboro’s rich history and unique character.
The Main Street Manager is responsible for overseeing the operations, revitalization, and enhancement of the downtown or “Main Street District.” This includes managing a variety of activities related to economic development, marketing, community engagement, and public-private partnerships. The Main Street Manager works closely with local businesses, government officials, nonprofit organizations, and residents to create a vibrant, economically sustainable, and attractive downtown area.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Economic Vitality and Business Support:
o Develop and implement strategies for attracting new businesses to the district while supporting the growth and retention of existing businesses.
o Foster relationships with local business owners to identify challenges and opportunities.
o Assist with grant applications and seek funding opportunities for downtown improvements or business expansion. o Coordinate incentives for property owners, developers, and tenants to enhanced town vitality.
2. Promotions and Advertising:
o Plan, organize, and execute downtown events and activities to engage the community and attract visitors (e.g., street festivals, farmers markets, holiday celebrations).
o Promote Main Street and downtown events through various communication channels (social media, newsletters, press releases).
o Promote the Main Street district and its events through effective marketing and communication strategies.
o Develop promotional materials such as brochures, websites, and social media content.
o Coordinate public relations campaigns to raise the profile of the Main Street district.
3. Design, Historic Preservation & Urban Planning:
o Promote the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings in line with local zoning laws and the community’s vision for downtown.
o Collaborate with architects, planners, and developers to ensure that new projects are aligned with the district’s character and preservation goals.
o Work with local government and regulatory bodies to advocate for policies that support Main Street revitalization.
4. Organization, Community Engagement & Partnerships:
o Build and maintain strong relationships with local residents, business owners, nonprofit organizations, and governmental entities.
o Serve as the liaison between the community, local stakeholders, and the Main Street program to ensure coordination and transparency.
o Develop partnerships with local schools, universities, and other organizations to foster community involvement and promote Main Street initiatives.
o Coordinate volunteer and community participation in events and activities.
o Identify and pursue fundraising opportunities to support Main Street initiatives, including corporate sponsorships, grants, and individual donations.
o Develop annual budgets for the Main Street program and ensure fiscal accountability.
5. Program Administration:
o Oversee day-to-day operations of the Main Street program, including managing staff, volunteers, and interns. o Prepare regular reports for the Board of Directors, City Council, Texas Historic Commission (THC), or other governing bodies.
o Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs and activities, adjusting strategies as necessary. o Participate in the development of long-term strategic plans for the downtown area, including goals for economic development, sustainability, and urban planning.
o Regularly assess and update the Main Street program’s goals in collaboration with the THC, local government, and stakeholders.
Job Requirements
Qualifications:
• Knowledge of the Main Street approach and/or other downtown revitalization strategies.
• Experience in event planning, marketing, and community outreach.
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse range of stakeholders and manage multiple projects.
• Familiarity with local government processes and public-private partnerships.
• Experience with budget management and fundraising.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, social media platforms, and other relevant software.
• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Business Administration, Economic Development, Public Administration, or related field. (preferred)
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in downtown revitalization, economic development, or related fields. (preferred)
Working Conditions:
• Must be available to work evenings and weekends for events or special projects.
• Frequent walking and travel within the downtown area.
• Occasional lifting of materials and event setup.
• Office environment with some outdoor activity during events or site visits.
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to walk or stand for extended periods during events and site visits.
To apply, please submit resume and cover letter to: hr@hillsborotx.org