About the Role

The Aurora Downtown District (ADD) Board of Directors seeks a self-motivated, community-focused Executive Director to lead programs, events, and initiatives that support the businesses and property owners within Special Service Area One (SSA One). The Executive Director will work closely with the ADD Board of Directors and the City of Aurora’s Downtown Economic Development Manager to implement the organization’s strategic goals, strengthen downtown Aurora’s vitality, and ensure effective communication between stakeholders, City departments, and the community.

This is a highly visible role requiring active engagement in the downtown district; more than 50% of the Executive Director’s time will be spent in the field building relationships and supporting stakeholders. Occasional remote work may be approved in advance.

 

Primary Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership and Operations

  • Manage the day-to-day operations of the ADD.

  • Serve as the primary contact and representative for SSA One stakeholders.

  • Distribute City-provided information, updates, and resources to SSA One property owners and businesses.

  • Manage organizational expenses, contracts, and financial activities with oversight from the Board of Directors and the Downtown Economic Development Manager.

  • Prepare regular financial and activity reports for the City of Aurora and the ADD Board.

  • Coordinate and attend monthly Board and committee meetings; prepare agendas, reports, and materials.

  • Recruit, support, and manage the Board of Directors, committees, volunteers, and interns.

  • Maintain accurate records, databases, and organizational documents.

 

Community Engagement and Fundraising

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with local businesses, property owners, donors, and sponsors.

  • Develop and implement fundraising strategies to support ADA programs and community events.

  • Identify and secure sponsorships, grants, and in-kind contributions.

  • Represent the ADD at community events, business meetings, and civic functions to promote downtown Aurora’s vibrancy and mission.

 

Marketing, Events, and Promotions

  • Plan, promote, and execute events, programs, and initiatives that enhance the downtown experience and attract visitors.

  • Collaborate with the City of Aurora on event logistics, applications, and permitting.

  • Oversee marketing and communications efforts, including the website, newsletters, and social media channels.

  • Update, maintain, and improve website content to ensure information is accurate, current, and aligned with organizational standards.

  • Develop and distribute promotional materials highlighting downtown businesses, attractions, and ADA events.

  • Coordinate beautification initiatives such as the ADD Street Pole Banner Program and other downtown improvements.

 

Legislative and Stakeholder Relations

  • Serve as a liaison between downtown property owners and the City of Aurora.

  • Work closely with the Downtown Economic Development Manager to represent SSA One stakeholders during City permitting, inspection, and compliance processes.

  • Advocate on behalf of downtown property and business owners to support an efficient, business-friendly environment.

 

Financial and Administrative Oversight

  • Assist in developing and managing the annual budget in collaboration with the Board and the Downtown Economic Development Manager.

  • Ensure timely and accurate bookkeeping, billing, and reporting (QuickBooks proficiency preferred).

  • Manage contracts with vendors, including auditors, event service providers, bookkeepers, and creative professionals.

  • Provide transparent financial reporting to the Board, stakeholders, and City representatives.

 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree strongly recommended (Business, Communications, Public Administration, or related field preferred).

  • Experience in nonprofit management, community development, economic development, or downtown organizations preferred.

  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and QuickBooks (or comparable accounting software).

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Bilingual is a strong plus.

  • Experience with video and photo editing is highly preferred.

  • Hands-on experience updating and maintaining website content (e.g., CMS platforms, page edits, content refreshes) is highly preferred.

  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and thrive in a collaborative environment.

  • Required to occasionally work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, for meetings and community events.

  • Qualified candidates must submit a :60-:90 Loom video of themselves reviewing their qualifications for this position.

 

Compensation and Benefits

  • Salary: $70,000–$80,000 annually, commensurate with experience, plus potential fundraising bonus.

  • Benefits: Generous PTO, paid holidays, access to insurance benefits packages, and employer match for IRA.

THE AURORA DOWNTOWN DISTRICT IS NOW HIRING!

position: executive director

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD JOB APPLICATION.

EMAIL JOB APPLICATION, RESUME, COVER LETTER AND VIDEO TO tufanod@aurora.il.us WITH AURORA DOWNTOWN DISTRICT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR IN THE SUBJECT LINE.

Applications will be accepted until position is filled.