Executive Director: Staunton Development Association; SDDA

Executive Director:
Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA)

NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT APPLY ON THE CITY OF STAUNTON'S EMPLOYMENT WEBSITE. PLEASE SEND COVER, RESUME TO:

Executive Director — Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA)

Staunton, VA (On-site) | Full-Time | Executive Leadership

Help drive the future of one of Virginia’s most charming and historic downtowns.

The Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA) is seeking a dynamic and passionate Executive Director to champion small business success, historic preservation, community engagement, and Main Street vitality within Historic Downtown Staunton, VA.

As Executive Director, you will:

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the SDDA and advocate for city stakeholders
• Manage day-to-day operations including budgeting, reports, and staff supervision
• Oversee the SDDA’s Virginia Main Street and Main Street America accreditation
• Research and prepare grant applications supporting SDDA programs and capital projects
• Cultivate sponsor, donor, and partner relations to generate financial and in-kind support
• Maintain relationships with partner organizations and city departments
• Act as a liaison to Virginia Main Street and other Main Street America communities
• Promote Staunton through marketing, storytelling, and media engagement
• Maintain SDDA digital platforms, including website & social media posts
• Track key economic data and program progress to demonstrate local impact

• Manage PR and increase public understanding of SDDA goals and accomplishments

• Advance strategies aligned with the Main Street America Program’s Four Points:
  Organization, Promotion, Design & Economic Vitality

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Entrepreneurial, energetic, and community-focused
• Highly organized and able to manage many moving parts
• A strong communicator, collaborator, and relationship-builder

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 2+ years nonprofit or community-development management
• Experience with compliance or accreditation processes (Virginia Main Street, Main Street America, or similar standards are a strong plus)
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Grant writing and grant award management
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, donor relations, and sponsorship development
• Ability to build relationships with city officials, stakeholders and partners
• Practical experience in website maintenance, social media, and general digital outreach

• Help shape Staunton’s future as a thriving local economy and cultural destination
• Improve Downtown Staunton for local property and business owners
• Enhance the Downtown Staunton experience for residents & visitors

If you love building partnerships, supporting entrepreneurs, and creating a welcoming, vibrant place — this role is a perfect fit.

Include your résumé and a brief cover letter sharing why you’re excited to live, work and play in historic Downtown Staunton.
Send to:
Application review begins on 1.19.2026.

The Staunton Downtown Development Association is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit dedicated to downtown vibrancy and economic vitality through collaboration, community programming, and Main Street transformation strategies.