The River District Association (RDA) is seeking a passionate, strategic, and experienced nonprofit leader to serve as its next Executive Director. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a nationally recognized downtown revitalization organization and play a key role in shaping the future of Danville’s River District—recipient of the 2023 Great American Main Street Award.

As Executive Director, you will:

• Serve as the face of RDA, building strong relationships with business and property owners, civic leaders, investors, and community stakeholders
• Lead a talented staff team (3–4 professionals) and collaborate with an engaged Board of Directors
• Drive innovative strategies in economic vitality, business retention, promotions, placemaking, and community engagement
• Manage resources and pursue diverse funding streams through fundraising, donor cultivation, and grants
• Partner with the City of Danville and regional organizations to advance economic growth and quality of life

Qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
• Proven leadership in nonprofit, downtown revitalization, economic development, or community engagement
• Strong financial, fundraising, and grant management experience
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills
• Visionary leadership with the ability to inspire staff, volunteers, and community partners

Compensation starts at $90,000+, commensurate with experience, with a full benefits package including health insurance, retirement match, vacation, holidays, and professional development.

The River District Association (RDA) is an independent 501(c)(3) corporation established in 1999 to promote the businesses, attractions, and history of Danville’s downtown community, which is now enthusiastically called the River District. RDA believes that a thriving downtown is critical to enhancing the
quality of life and the economic well-being of Danville and the surrounding region.

To support this work, RDA works closely with the City of Danville and other key stakeholders to maintain accreditation with Virginia Main Street and Main Street America. RDA is committed to the Main Street Four-Point Approach™ of organization, promotion, design, and economic vitality – the methodology that
is recognized nationally as the most successful formula for downtown revitalization – to develop transformation strategies that contribute to River District revitalization and increase demand for River District products and services. Most recently, RDA has expanded its footprint and applied the Four-
Point Approachâ„¢ to a neighboring commercial district, the North Main Business District.

RDA’s staff, Board of Directors, and key partners work together to make Danville’s River District a model for excellence in downtown revitalization. Since 2010, the River District has leveraged $52 million in public investment to attract $310 million in private investment, which facilitated the creation of more than 150 businesses and the addition of over 1,200 residential spaces. In 2023, these efforts were rewarded with the Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA). To learn more about Danville’s GAMSA recognition, click here. However, the work is not done as planning for the River District Phase II has
just started!

The River District Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.