Westfield On The Hunt For New DWC Executive Director

WESTFIELD, NJ — Following the recent resignation of Downtown Westfield Corporation's (DWC) Executive Director Bob Zuckerman, the town is still looking for a replacement.

Zuckerman, whose resignation was effective June 3, has accepted a position as Executive Director of the Red Bank River Center, as his family relocates to Asbury Park. The town is now looking for a new director of the Special Improvement District.

According to Brindle's announcement in May, Zuckerman began his job with Downtown Westfield in Match of 2020 — a time when the pandemic forced the closure of many downtown businesses for an extended period of time.

Read more: Executive Director Of Downtown Westfield Corporation Resigns

The Executive Director position involves the overall day-to-day management of the DWC, as well as ensuring the long-term vibrancy of Westfield’s historic downtown, mitigating commercial vacancies and developing and executing promotional, marketing and communication strategies to support and recruit businesses.

Specific duties include:

• Working directly with DWC Board and Committees to implement goals and initiatives of the SID and Main Street Program
• Keeping members apprised and updated on opportunities and trends in retail, development, parking, pedestrian safety, legislation, historic preservation, and other issues that could impact or improve the SID
• Conceiving, implementing, and executing all downtown promotions and initiatives
• Overseeing streetscape maintenance, improvements, signage, and economic revitalization projects
• Overseeing all DWC marketing and communication
• Identifying and applying for relevant grants; proactively liaising with all key stakeholders including the DWC Board, DWC Committees, the Westfield Mayor, Town Administrator and all Municipal Departments
• Serving as a visible presence with SID businesses, property owners, and the public
• Interacting with relevant professional organizations including Downtown NJ, Main Street, and the American Planning Association (NJ)
• Managing and updating a database of all SID properties, businesses, and owners

The role also requires a Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of five years professional experience as a leader in economic development programs, and SID, and/or Main Street Program; foundation in planning, public administration, or commercial real estate.

More information on qualifications and required skills for the role can be found on the town's website.

Applicants must email a cover letter and resume to Downtown Westfield Corporation at info@westfieldtoday.com by July 15.