What are the responsibilities and job description for the Executive Director: Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA) position at Staunton Downtown Development Association?
Exectutive Director: Staunton Downtown Development Association (SDDA)
NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT APPLY ON THE CITY OF STAUNTON'S EMPLOYMENT WEBSITE. PLEASE SEND COVER, RESUME TO: applysdda@gmail.com.
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.
? What You’ll Lead
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
?? Who Thrives Here
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
Ideal education and experience of candidates:
- 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
?? Why SDDA?
Your work will:
- 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.
?? How to Apply
?? Include your résumé and a brief cover letter sharing why you’re excited to live, work and play in historic Downtown Staunton.
Send to: applysdda@gmail.com
Application review begins on 1.19.2026.
About SDDA
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.