Executive Director

The Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership (DFP) is seeking an experienced, dynamic leader to serve as Executive Director of one of Fond du Lac’s most impactful community organizations. This high‑profile role supports more than 280 downtown businesses – 76% of which are small, locally owned – and plays a central role in downtown revitalization, economic development, and placemaking. As the voice of downtown, the Executive Director leads redevelopment and business recruitment efforts while bringing beloved community events like the Saturday Farmers Market and Fondue Fest to life.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community where you live and work.

The Executive Director is the primary leader and point of contact for all DFP initiatives. This role is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs aligned with Board‑approved strategies and goals. The position is highly visible and requires strong collaboration with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, public partners, and the business community. With a small team, the Executive Director balances hands‑on execution with effective delegation and leadership, fostering collaboration and momentum across downtown initiatives.

• Downtown Economic Development: Business recruitment, retention, expansion, redevelopment, and incentive programs.
• Events & Marketing: Oversight of special events, downtown promotions, brand management, and economic impact reporting.
• Design, Safety & Placemaking: Streetscape initiatives, public art, safety partnerships, and design guideline oversight.
• Organizational Leadership: Day‑to‑day operations, strategic implementation, fundraising, financial stewardship, and accreditation.
• Governance & Partnerships: Board support, community advocacy, public relations, and collaboration with City and regional partners.
• Team & Volunteer Leadership: Staff management, volunteer coordination, and organizational culture building.

• Highly organized, creative, and solutions‑oriented
• Self‑motivated with strong project management skills
• Collaborative leader with excellent communication abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (public administration, business, economic development, urban planning, marketing, or communications)
• 3–5 years of downtown management or related experience, 5–7 years of organizational leadership experience
• BID, chamber, CVB, downtown organization, festival, or venue management experience preferred
• Fundraising, grant writing, and nonprofit financial management experience preferred

• Salaried position; compensation commensurate with experience
• Flexible schedule with evenings and weekends required for events
• Benefits include life and disability insurance, health insurance stipend, IRA match, PTO, sick time, and holidays

Submit a letter of interest and resume by February 15, 2026 to  This position was posted January 23, 2026, and will remain open until filled. A complete job description can be found at