Fiishtown District Executive Director Search

About Fishtown Kensington Area BID

The Fishtown Kensington Area Business Improvement District (FKABID)’s mission is to keep these neighborhoods of Philadelphia cleaner, safer, and more beautiful for everyone who lives, works, and visits the district. By supporting local improvements and community pride, the FKABID creates a place where businesses can thrive, and creativity can flourish. Founded in 2020, the FKABID is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the vitality, safety, and visibility of one of Philadelphia’s most dynamic and rapidly growing districts.

Position Overview

The Fishtown Kensington Area Business Improvement District (FKABID) seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to serve as its chief executive officer. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, operational oversight, financial management, and marketing direction to enhance the vitality of the district.

This role collaborates with property owners, business leaders, city agencies, and community stakeholders to implement initiatives such as: cleaning and safety programs, marketing campaigns, economic development projects, special events, and streetscape improvements. The Executive Director serves as the primary advocate and public representative of the BID.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Operations

• Implement the BID’s mission, vision, and strategic goals in partnership with the Board of Directors
• Develop and execute strategic plans for economic development, capital projects, and marketing to enhance the district’s long-term vibrancy
• Oversee day-to-day operations, programs, and administrative functions
• Lead BID reauthorization efforts in coordination with the City of Philadelphia (2030)

Financial Management & Fiscal Stewardship

• Manage the organization’s budget and ensure sound financial practices
• Oversee assessment collections, financial reporting, and compliance with regulatory requirements
• Identify and secure funding through grants, sponsorships, partnerships and other revenue streams
• Ensure accountability and transparency in all financial operations

Grant Writing & Resource Development

• Identify, pursue, and successfully secure funding through the government and private sectors
• Prepare and submit viable grant proposals
• Establish relationships with elected officials, business and corporate leaders, and community partners to bring additional resources to the BID

Marketing, Event Management & Public Relations

• Develop and execute marketing strategies to increase corridor activity and enhance the district’s image via its website, social media platforms, improving internet SEO, and public relations
• Plan and oversee community events, festivals, and promotional campaigns to increase consumer traffic and support local businesses
• Represent the district in media interviews, stakeholder meetings and at events
• Coordinate logistics, sponsorships, permits, and vendor partnerships for events and engage with community groups, RCO’s, stakeholders, and neighbors regularly

Economic Development & Corridor Revitalization

• Promote business attraction, retention, and expansion with the district
• Oversee public space improvements, façade programs, and capital projects
• Support real estate development and collaborate on revitalization initiatives
• Manage district services, including cleaning, safety, beautification, and infrastructure improvements

Staff & Operations

• Hire, train, and manage staff and oversee external contractors for services
• Provide leadership to executive staff, district ambassadors, and partner programs such as Ready, Willing, & Able
• Ensure effective and efficient program implementation aligned with organizational goals

Board Relations & Governance

• Serve as the principal liaison to the Board of Directors
• Provide monthly reports on financial & organizational performance, programs, and initiatives
• Support and implement policies approved by the Board
• Facilitate transparent and effective governance practices
• Lead BID reauthorization efforts as required

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Minimum of three years of proven leadership experience in community planning, nonprofit management, business development, and/or economic development
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, public administration, urban planning, economic development, or a related field preferred
• Experience working with Business Improvement Districts, local government, or community organizations preferred

Key Qualities

• Communication Skills: Strong public relations, media, and interpersonal skills for working with and cultivating relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Action-Oriented: Ability to lead projects, solve problems, and manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Knowledge of Local Government: Experience working with city agencies on regulations and improvements
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, digital marketing platforms, etc.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication
• Must be able to move throughout the district for up to 8 hours, including during festivals and events
• Creative, adaptable, and solutions-focused
• Financial oversight and budget administration
• Grant writing and fundraising
• Ethical, accountable, and results-driven
• Politically astute and community-minded

Compensation & Benefits

• The FKABID is offering a starting salary range of $95,000-$110,000/year, commensurate with experience and expertise in the field. Potential for an annual bonus as agreed upon by the Board of Directors.
• Monthly health insurance stipend
• Self-managed paid time off (PTO) and professional development opportunities

This position requires a combination of office-based and fieldwork throughout the district. Evening and weekend attendance at meetings and events may be required. The Executive Director is expected to maintain a visible, reliable presence within the community.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following to info@fishtownbid.org by COB May 4, 2026 for consideration:

• Cover Letter / Personal Statement
• Resume
• Three professional references