Main Street Director
: Job Details :

Position Overview

The City of Inman is seeking a visionary and dynamic Director to lead our nonprofit and Main Street revitalization efforts. This full-time position requires a passionate and innovative individual dedicated to enhancing the economic, social, and cultural vibrancy of Downtown Inman. The Director will work closely with local businesses, community organizations, and government agencies to achieve the strategic goals of the South Carolina Main Street program and the local community.

How to Apply and to see Full Job Description

Applications can be found online at www.cityofinman.org/employment.php

Responsibilities

The Director will be responsible for leading and implementing the Four-Point Approach in Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Vitality, ensuring alignment with South Carolina Main Street and National Main Street Center standards. This role requires the development and execution of strategic plans and annual work plans for preservation-based economic development, focusing on revitalizing the Main Street district and guiding the organization as its objectives evolve to meet changing community needs and economic conditions.

Community Engagement is a key component of this position.

The Director will collaborate with volunteers, local businesses, property owners, and government agencies to foster a cooperative climate for downtown revitalization. Building strong relationships with key stakeholders, including municipal and county government, local and state agencies, nonprofit associations, civic groups, schools, and residents, is essential. The Director will represent the city and community at local, state, and national levels, effectively communicating the program's goals and accomplishments.

Program Management responsibilities include coordinating the daily operations of the Main Street department and office, including budgeting, record-keeping, and reporting. The Director will manage the recruitment, evaluation, and retention of volunteers, ensuring their effective involvement in downtown-related projects. Additionally, the Director will oversee administrative tasks such as purchasing, accounting, and preparation of reports required by the coordinating Main Street program and city.

Marketing/Strategic Communications requires that the Director develop and conduct ongoing public awareness campaigns and educational programs designed to create appreciation of the downtown district and foster understanding of Main Street goals. Utilizing various media channels, including speaking engagements, press releases, media interviews, and personal appearances, the Director will promote the organization's mission and activities as well as activities and initiatives throughout the district. Internal and external communications include website design, newsletters, social media page management, and graphic design skills for print materials including posters, flyers, postcards, annual reports, and professional materials including supporting documents for grant applications and request for proposals etc.

Economic Development responsibilities include assisting and developing the capacity of downtown businesses, institutions, and organizations to undertake improvement activities, such as physical enhancements, better business practices, promotional events, and business development strategies. The Director will support individual tenants or property owners with property improvement projects by providing technical assistance including professional design consultation and support with financing options. Developing and implementing business recruitment and retention strategies, tourism campaigns, historic infrastructure rehabilitation projects, revolving loans, and grant procurement efforts are also key aspects of the role.

Event Planning is a critical part of the role that includes organizing and managing all city sponsored events and working with local businesses to support events co-sponsored by the city. These events will highlight both the downtown district showcasing everything the area has to offer, and serve as an opportunity to incubate small businesses. These events are designed to boost local business sales, foster community pride, and draw attention to Inman's unique blend of urban and natural attractions. The Director will also assist with the development and implementation of other downtown events and festivals that promote the downtown revitalization strategies and attract visitors to the area. Coordination will require vendor recruitment and management skills in compliance with the City of Inman and collaboration with local businesses and community organizations to plan and execute successful events that enhance the vibrancy of downtown Inman.

Monitoring and Evaluation are critical components of the position. The Director will develop and maintain systems to track the progress of the Main Street organization, quantifying downtown improvements through required quarterly reports, photos, property inventories, and other documentation. The Director will attend all required training, professional development activities, and planning meetings mandated by South Carolina Main Street to fulfill responsibilities under any agreements with the state organization.

Supervisory Responsibilities include managing any necessary temporary or permanent employees, interns, volunteer committees as well as professional consultants, and participating in personnel and project evaluations. Cultivating and retaining a diverse base of volunteers and partner organizations to assist the organization in fulfilling its mission is also essential.

Qualifications

• Education and/or experience in commercial district management, economics, finance, public relations, planning, business administration, public administration, retailing, volunteer or non-profit administration, architecture, historic preservation, or small business development.
• Experience in fundraising, marketing, grant writing, and event planning is preferred
• Sensitivity to design and preservation issues and an understanding of the challenges facing downtown business owners, property owners, and community organizations.
• Entrepreneurial, energetic, imaginative, and well-organized, with the ability to function effectively in an independent environment.
• Excellent computer, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Supervisory and volunteer development skills are desirable.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in a similar or complementary role.
• Basic knowledge of federal, state, and local economic and community development tools available for downtown revitalization.
• Proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, database management, QuickBooks, and Canva.
• Graphic design and social media skills are desirable. Experience with WordPress and/or WIX are preferred.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and tools such as email marketing, website maintenance, and blog writing.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Physical Requirements

The Director needs to regularly traverse the Main Street corridor to meet with business owners and other stakeholders and to coordinate or support events. Some projects will require entering blighted and/or dilapidated buildings. The Director will need to be able to move actively around the district in all four seasons, lift up to thirty pounds and set up event equipment including tents, and consistently operate office machinery.

Benefits

• Participation in the SC local government employee retirement system.
• Health, vision, and dental insurance benefits provided through the SC Public Employee Benefit Authority.
• Health insurance for employee is covered by the City
• Life insurance and short-term disability benefits.
• The city will provide professional educational opportunities.
• Eleven paid holidays over the course of a year
• Healthy Living and Childcare supplements available
• Use of car during work hours

How to Apply and to see Full Job Description

Applications can be found online at www.cityofinman.org/employment.php

This position is open until filled. The City of Inman is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a drug screen and various background investigations which may include criminal history, driving record, credit report, employment history, education verification and personal references.