AMHERST — The Amherst Business Improvement District has named John Page its new executive director.
“I’m excited to be leading the BID in its next chapter, so I can’t wait to get to work,” Page said.
Page, a lifelong Amherst area resident with experience in economic development, business advocacy and event management, had his appointment announced to start this month and has a first day in the role set for Oct. 16.
“We are delighted to have John join the BID as our new executive director,” said BID Board President Barry Roberts. “We were drawn to his knowledge and experience in the community, and his can-do spirit. John is unafraid to roll up his sleeves and work hard, and he is well-known and respected locally for his dedication to Amherst, especially its downtown.”
Page will be departing from his current role as assistant director for university events at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he was instrumental in planning and executing major events such as commencement. He also is credited for playing a key role in reimagining the 2024 UMass Founders Day celebration, expanding it to include over 35 events across campus and opening it to the broader community.
“I am deeply honored to step into the role of the BID’s new executive director and to champion Amherst’s bright future,” Page said. “I look forward to building on the solid foundation laid by my predecessors, advocating for our downtown and amplifying our status as a premier destination that is welcoming to all.”
Prior to his role at UMass, Page worked for the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, leading marketing and events for the organization and focusing on economic development issues, grant writing and tourism initiatives. He worked collaboratively with local businesses, the BID, the town of Amherst, state delegation and other stakeholders on support for small business, beautification and placemaking efforts and housing policy.
Page has already been able to work with the BID under different capacities and most recently he worked on a contract basis for the BID and spearheaded its 2024 Summer Concert Series and annual Block Party in September. As he prepares for the new role, Page added he hopes to extend an introduction to any property or business owners, and residents in the downtown and focus on continuing the BID’s growth.
“Meeting all the new people and connecting with them, and listening to them is really important first and foremost,” said Page. “And then one thing we want to explore very early on is brining back Amherst Arts Night that happened in the past on a monthly basis in different iterations, and we’d love to explore brining that back to downtown Amherst.”
Page added bringing back the arts nights allows for businesses downtown to allow artists to showcase work within the business, promoting local talents and the downtown businesses of Amherst.
A proud Amherst-Pelham Regional High School and UMass Amherst alum, Page holds leadership roles on many community boards and committees, including as chair of the Pelham Cultural Council, the Amherst Education Foundation and an organizer of Amherst LGBTQ+ Pride events. He was a candidate for the inaugural Amherst Town Council in 2018 and has been active in local political campaigns and causes.
Growing up in the area has made the new position exciting for Page, as through his role he will be supporting the downtown he grew up around and is so familiar with.
“I grew up in town, walking into town after class in middle school,” said Page. “I lived downtown through college. I’ve worked at the chamber and promoted local businesses. I understand and cherish downtown Amherst for the special and unique place it is. I cannot wait to get to work.”
