AMHERST — The Amherst Business Improvement District, or BID, has launched a search for a new executive director and are looking for candidates that can provide dynamic and visionary leadership for a community they are passionate about and want to see continued growth and success in development.
The search comes following the departure of interim Executive Director Liz Larson. Larson, who previously served as the BID’s Director of Operations and Finance stepped down from the position to pursue other opportunities.
The Amherst Business Improvement District is a nonprofit economic development organization comprised of local property owners dedicated to providing programs and services that supplement those of the town of Amherst.
BID Vice President Sarah Barr told Reminder Publishing the position brings a unique opportunity for employment as they are looking for someone to help create a vision for downtown Amherst and put that vision into action.
“We’re looking for someone who is a visionary leader, someone who likes downtown and is comfortable working with different types of stakeholders,” Barr said.
The BID’s executive director will be responsible for the administration, operations and financial management of the organization. They will also be looked to manage its programs and services, and responding to stakeholders issues and concerns to improve the business climate and vitality of the district.
The ideal candidate must have experience in urban planning or economic development and must have a deep commitment to the Amherst community, according to BID.
Barr added it’s an exciting time to be in Amherst and there are many exciting downtown developments along with its arts and culture scene that make the area the hub for the city it is.
“It really feels like there’s a lot of possibilities ahead for the incoming executive director, whoever that person might be,” Barr said.
President of Amherst BID Barry Roberts expressed gratitude for Larson’s contributions and shared optimism for the future.
“We are deeply grateful for the dedication and hard work of Liz Larson, who was instrumental in managing the BID through a period of transition,” Roberts said. “As we embark on the search for a new Executive Director, we are excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for our downtown community.”
Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the Amherst BID’s website at amherstdowntown.com for more information about the position and application details. Barr said the BID will continue accepting applications through late July and conduct interviews in early August with the hope to fill the position by September.
In the meantime, the BID will continue to host events throughout the summer headlined by the Amherst Summer Concert Series. The 2024 summer music series line-up has been announced for the four Fridays in July from 5-9 p.m. on the Town Common.
July 5 will feature performances by SPF-4, and Harvest and Rust, July 12 will feature Grayson Ty, and TapRoots, July 19 will be the Jazz in July show, and July 26 will feature performances by The No Nos and LeFever. More information can be found on the Amherst Downtown Instagram page.
The BID invests its resources to improve downtown Amherst’s vibrancy, sustainability and economic health through advocacy, events, beautification, marketing and special projects.
“There are lots of greats and exciting things happening in the town of Amherst,” Barr said.
