Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer

The Executive Director/CEO is the Chief Administrative Officer and policy advisor for the Westport Regional Business League and two closely related Community Improvement Districts within the historic Westport District of Kansas City, Missouri. The Executive Director/CEO is responsible for the efficient administration and management of the following departments: Public Safety, Public Space Maintenance and Beautification, Finance, Parking Management, Special Events, and Marketing. In addition, the Executive Director/CEO must provide leadership and direct involvement in the areas of Human Resources, Risk Management, Asset Protection, Planning, and Business Development as well as recommend policies and priorities for the Board of Directors and oversee implementation of policies as established by the Board of Directors.

The ideal candidate should be a visionary, energetic, and strategic thinker skilled at developing and managing budgets ($3M annual operating and $1.1M capital improvements) as well as one that seeks innovative public-private financing partnerships for special projects or initiatives. He/she should also have demonstrative ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, city staff, community groups, police department, neighborhood associations, homeowner associations, local small businesses, the bar & restaurant association, property owners/managers, and the general public.
 
The successful candidate will have a proven record of driving change, innovation, and economic growth within a historic mixed-use environment. Exceptional analytical and communication skills plus a broad knowledge of downtown management techniques and organizational development expertise are required to be successful in the position. A solid understanding of how to successfully guide strategic direction of programs, organizations, and the overall Westport District in collaboration with multiple stakeholders (both public and private) is a must.

Candidates should have at least eight (8) years of experience in managing and leading a complex public entity, quasi-public organization, or non-profit economic development organization. A bachelor's degree from an accredited university in a relevant field of study is required with an advanced degree strongly preferred.

About Westport: Westport was founded as an independent town in 1833. After a merger with the newer City of Kansas City at the very end of the 19th Century, Westport quickly established itself as the most historic neighborhood and the original entertainment district in Kanas City Today, Westport is a major dining destination for the region and home to trendy boutiques, nightlife hotspots, offices, studios for creative professionals, and indulgent personal service businesses. Westport is also home to more than1500 residents and remains the densest and most walkable area of Kansas City Not surprisingly, Westport contains the largest concentration of locally owned businesses in the region and collectively attracts over two million patrons and/or visitors each year.
 
Resumes and expressions of interest should be forwarded to jobs@wrbl.org.