Director of Downtown Revitalization
Jamestown Renaissance Corporation
Jamestown, New York
Primary Job Purpose:
The Director must be a bold, strategic and hands-on visionary leader ready to lead transformative urban revitalization efforts in Jamestown, NY.
As JRC’s urban core lead, the successful candidate will have the latitude to drive high-impact initiatives—from housing development and storefront activation to placemaking and policy advocacy—while collaborating with a committed Board and community partners. The successful candidate will be an ambassador to downtown coordinating with the business owners and communicating with the Board about opportunities for development and creating an entrepreneurial culture. This is a rare opportunity to lead with purpose, creativity, and autonomy in a city poised for renewal.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Lead Downtown Revitalization Projects
- Execute JRC’s Downtown Revitalization Strategy with a focus on housing, building reuse, and public space improvements.
- Manage all phases of project development—from concept to completion.
Shape Strategic Direction
- Develop and evolve JRC’s annual work plan based on data, opportunity, and community input.
- Maintain alignment with city planning efforts while exercising judgment in project selection.
Oversee Operations & Administration
- Complete and update an inventory of downtown businesses and properties.
- Manage contracts, leases, land records, and organizational documentation.
- Coordinate Board and Urban Core Committee meetings and ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
Drive Grant Strategy & Financial Oversight
- Write or manage grant applications to secure funding for operations and projects.
- Develop and manage the annual budget in partnership with the Board Treasurer and City Fiscal Manager.
Amplify Communications & Engagement
- Serve as a point of contact in navigating for business development and relocation in the Urban Core—strongly articulating the downtown vision, goals, and program priorities.
- Promote downtown living, investment, and pride through strategic communications, vision casting, and storytelling.
- Demonstrate cross-sector collaboration cultivating relationships with funders, officials, and community stakeholders and representing JRC at public events.
Advocate for Policy & Inclusive Growth
- Advance policy recommendations that support equitable development.
- Engage with residents and business owners to shape initiatives that reflect community needs.
Education, Knowledge & Skills:
- A bachelor’s degree in business, non-profit management or a related field.
- A strategic thinker with a track record of executing complex projects and driving measurable impact.
- Skilled in grant writing or experienced in managing grant development processes.
- Self-directed and resourceful, with strong organizational and communication skills.
- Comfortable working independently while coordinating external support and contractors while communicating effectively with stakeholders.
- Passionate about urban revitalization, community development, and inclusive growth.
- Experience in nonprofit leadership, urban planning, or economic development is a plus.
- Experience in working with and reporting to a Board of Directors.
More Information:
- Based in Jamestown, NY
- Occasional evening and weekend commitments for community events and meetings.
How to Apply:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The total compensation range for this job is $75,000 – $85,000 annually.
Qualified candidates may send a cover letter and resume to MaryEllen Carlo, Director of Search Services at Ascendant at [email protected]. Submittals without cover letters will not be considered.