Executive Director

Position Summary

The Executive Director of the Grande Prairie Downtown Association (GPDTA)also serving as Manager of the Business Improvement Area (BIA) is responsible for overseeing daily operations, driving economic growth, supporting local businesses, and engaging the broader community. This individual plays a key leadership role in promoting and enhancing the vitality of downtown Grande Prairie by coordinating events, implementing strategic initiatives, advocating for member businesses, and fostering collaborative relationships with stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Administration

• Implement and support the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors.
• Develop and manage the annual budget, working with the Board and bookkeeper/accountant.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the Board; attend Board meetings.
• Ensure compliance with municipal, provincial, and federal regulations and reporting requirements.
• Develop and implement strategic plans aimed at improving business conditions, increasing foot traffic, and enhancing the downtown areas overall appeal.

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with downtown businesses, property owners, the City of Grande Prairie, community organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Advocate for the interests of the GPDTA/BIA with local, provincial, and federal government agencies.
• Respond to member inquiries and provide resources and support to help member businesses thrive.
• Organize and facilitate meetings, workshops, and events to promote engagement among business owners, residents, and stakeholders.

Marketing & Events

• Lead marketing, branding, and public relations efforts to promote downtown Grande Prairie.
• Develop and execute marketing strategies (social media, newsletters, community campaigns) that drive awareness and foot traffic.
• Plan, coordinate, and promote events such as festivals, markets, holiday activities, and seasonal sales events.
• Oversee the creation of promotional materials, social media content, and website updates.

Beautification & Safety Initiatives

• Coordinate with the City and other partners on downtown beautification, maintenance, safety, and infrastructure improvement initiatives.
• Identify and advocate for enhancements to public spaces, signage, and lighting that improve the downtown experience.

Fund Development & Sponsorship

• Seek out grant opportunities, partnerships, and sponsorships to support programming and capital improvements.
• Prepare funding applications and manage project budgets as needed.

Advocacy

• Represent the Association at relevant forums, committees, and stakeholder meetings.
• Collaborate on projects that enhance public infrastructure and public space improvements, ensuring the downtown remains vibrant, safe, and accessible.

Data & Reporting

• Monitor and assess local economic conditions, trends, and competitive positioning.
• Prepare reports on initiatives, activities, and community feedback for the Board of Directors.
• Use data and metrics to evaluate the impact of events, marketing campaigns, and business support programs.

Qualifications & Skills

• Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Urban Planning, Economic Development, Communications, Marketing, or a related field (a Bachelors degree is preferred; Masters degree an asset).
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in community development, economic development, or business management, with a focus on improving business environments.
• Proven leadership experience, preferably in a not-for-profit, association, or downtown revitalization setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong project management and event planning skills; ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
• Proficiency in social media, websites, Microsoft Office Suite, project management software, and basic budgeting/financial oversight.
• Knowledge of marketing principles and social media management.
• Familiarity with local government processes and knowledge of Grande Prairies business community are assets.

Benefits

• Health benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Dynamic and supportive work environment.

Work Conditions

• Office space located in downtown Grande Prairie, with occasional travel within the city.
• Occasional evening and weekend work required to attend events or meetings.

This is a full-time position that requires candidates to work during regular working hours as well as some irregular hours as needed. Candidates will be required to declare any possible conflicts of interest.