The Wausau River District is seeking candidates for the Executive Director position located in Wausau, Wisconsin. This individual will be responsible for the overall administration and management of the Wausau River District. The individual will coordinate projects, programs, and policies within a downtown revitalization program that focuses on historic preservation and downtown economic development. Areas of responsibility include fundraising, program development and execution, planning and evaluation, advocacy for policy change, personnel and fiscal management, public relations, marketing, and special event coordination. This is a hybrid role; three days in office required and two days may be remote.

The individual must be entrepreneurial-minded, energetic, imaginative, well-organized, and capable of functioning effectively in an independent environment, using excellent written and verbal communication skills with all employees and stakeholders. In addition, they will maintain the highest level of morale, personal and professional growth, motivation and performance with each staff member.

QUALIFICATIONS

Associate’s degree required. Bachelor’s degree preferred.

A minimum of 3 years’ experience in business management, organizational leadership, event planning, or related experience.

Previous experience with a main street program preferred.

Previous experience leading a team strongly preferred.

Proficient with Microsoft Office and Windows programs.

Familiarity with Quicken and/or QuickBooks preferred.

Strong communication skills, verbal and written.

Ability to communicate and work with the public and willingness to gain knowledge and understanding

needs of businesses and property owners within the River District.

Ability to effectively manage projects following appropriate timelines.

TOTAL REWARDS

The starting salary for this position is $65,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience.Health Reimbursement Account, Monthly Lifestyle Benefit, Monthly River District Benefit, Employer Roth IRA Contribution, Paid Time Off, Holidays, and Birthday off with pay will be provided.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Please e-mail cover letter, current resume, and a list of three references to Joseph Mella, President, Wausau River District Board of Directors, jmella@ruderware.com, by Noon (CST) on Friday, October 10, 2025. Applications received by this time will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until it is filled.

The mission of the Wausau River District, Inc., 501(c)(3), is to promote and facilitate the economic vitality and historic preservation of downtown Wausau for the benefit of the entire community. For the full job description and to learn more about the Wausau River District, please visit: https://www.wausauriverdistrict.org/