Executive Director

About the role

Go Ottawa, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to creating vibrancy in downtown Ottawa and beyond through implementation of Ottawa’s strategic plan. The director will coordinate and oversee implementation of the Go Ottawa community plan adopted 3-13-2023, working with diverse stakeholders including residents, elected officials, property owners, local and state organizations, community groups, committees, and volunteers to carry out the Go Ottawa mission. As an Aspiring Community of Heritage Ohio (the statewide coordinating program for Main Street America), the executive director will ensure Go Ottawa meets the educational, professional development and other requirements necessary to maintain its membership.

Responsibilities

• Manage all administrative aspects of the organization, including purchasing, record keeping, budget development, accounting, preparing all reports, and maintaining data systems to track program progress.
• Participate with the Board of Directors in developing objectives and carrying out strategies to meet the goals of the Go Ottawa plan; guide the organization toward its mission.
• Develop and improve operations and create new opportunities to further the mission of Go Ottawa.
• Coordinate the activity of the Main Street program committees; ensure communication among committees is well established; assist committee volunteers with implementation of work plan items.
• Report regularly to the Board of Directors on internal and external work and activities that impact the organization.
• Serve as a spokesperson for Go Ottawa at community activities to enhance the organization’s profile; create and enhance partnerships with residents, community leaders, business owners and other entities.
• Provide meeting agenda and supporting materials to the board; assist with financial planning and management, including fundraising development and grant writing to maintain and increase funds.
• Support the Village of Ottawa with grant pursuits.
• Ensure sound bookkeeping and accounting procedures are followed and the organization complies with legislation and taxation covering nonprofits.
• Maintain membership requirements so that Go Ottawa remains in good standing with Heritage Ohio and Main Street America.
• Manage social media, website and other digital marketing materials to foster understanding of the Main Street program’s goals and objectives.
• Perform other duties as needed or assigned by the Board of Directors.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in marketing/public relations, economic development and/or related fields.
• Previous non-profit experience desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Ability

• Leadership and management skills related to managing a nonprofit organization, including general office operations, technology and computer functions, fundraising, marketing, event planning, and grant writing.
• Appreciation for and understanding of historic preservation, revitalization, and community involvement.
• Ability to evaluate community needs and interests.
• Experience managing and sustaining different revenue streams including program fees, donations and grants.
• Superior written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills and ability to develop relationships with stakeholders committed to redevelopment.
• Knowledge/experience, or willingness to learn, content creation for social media platforms and traditional media.
• Strong organizational and decision-making skills and capability of functioning in an independent environment.

Schedule

32-hour work week with flexibility, salaried and exempt from overtime provisions. Must be able to work some evening and weekend hours to accommodate fundraising events and community engagement opportunities. Occasional travel, sometimes overnight, may be required. Hybrid schedule.

Pay

$40,000 – $45,000 annually

Must maintain a valid driver’s license, have access to a personal vehicle and carry appropriate auto insurance. Pass a background check.