East Tosa BID PT Executive Director

The East Tosa Business Improvement District (BID) is a newly established organization representing a vibrant and growing commercial corridor of North Avenue (between 60th-76th streets) in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Rooted in a spirit of collaboration, community, and local pride, the East Tosa BID exists to support local businesses, enhance the district’s identity, and create a destination where people gather, shop, dine, and connect. With strong momentum and engaged stakeholders, East Tosa BID is poised for meaningful growth and is seeking its first Executive Director to help bring that vision to life.

About the Role:

The Executive Director will serve as the driving force behind the East Tosa BID’s day-to-day operations, strategic initiatives, and community engagement efforts. This is a foundational leadership role responsible for building and managing the BID’s operations, executing strategic priorities, and serving as the primary connector between businesses, commercial property owners, the City of Wauwatosa, and the broader community.

This role requires a highly organized, proactive, and relationship-driven individual who is passionate about local business development and placemaking. The Executive Director will work closely with the Board of Directors and committees to bring ideas to life, build partnerships, and elevate East Tosa as a destination.

This is a unique opportunity for an entrepreneurial leader who thrives in relationship building, creating strategic processes and structure, and turning vision into action.

Responsibilities:

Primary responsibilities will include:

Organizational Development & Operations

• Establish and manage day-to-day operations of the BID, including administrative systems, processes, and reporting
• Report to and work with the Board of Directors to execute the BID’s strategic plan, annual priorities, and overall initiatives
• Work closely with BID committees to support goals and initiatives
• Develop and manage budgets, financial reporting, and vendor relationships
• Ensure compliance with City requirements, bylaws, and governance standards
• Plan and coordinate monthly BID board meetings and member meetings –  including meeting coordination, agenda development, and follow-up
• Organize, plan and present annual operating plan to BID board and City of Wauwatosa Common Council

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Serve as a liaison between business owners, commercial property owners, residents, and the City of Wauwatosa
• Build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, including other local BIDs, neighborhood associations, chambers of commerce, and convention & visitor bureaus, to foster collaboration and advance shared district goals
• Build and maintain strong relationships across the district to foster collaboration and alignment
• Lead clear, consistent communication through newsletters, meetings, and digital platforms

District Branding & Marketing 

• Lead the implementation and ongoing evolution of the BID’s brand identity (in partnership with the Branding Committee), ensuring a cohesive and compelling look and feel across all touchpoints
• Support the Marketing Committee in developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy and district-wide campaigns that position East Tosa as a vibrant, must-visit destination and drive foot traffic, visibility, and local business growth
• Lead and manage the BID’s digital presence, including social media, website, email newsletters, and other communication channels
• Create and curate engaging content that highlights local businesses, events, and the unique character of the district (e.g., storytelling, business spotlights, behind-the-scenes, seasonal campaigns)
• Collaborate closely with local businesses to amplify promotions, launches, and events through coordinated marketing efforts
• Build and maintain relationships with local media outlets, journalists, and influencers to support ongoing public relations efforts and secure coverage for the district, businesses, and events
• Track and analyze marketing performance (social engagement, website traffic, campaign success) and use insights to continuously improve strategy
• Identify and implement creative, grassroots, and cost-effective marketing opportunities that align with the district’s brand and goals

Events & Programming

• Collaborate with the Events Committee to bring district-wide events and activations to life, driving foot traffic, strengthening community engagement and reinforcing East Tosa as a destination
• Cultivate partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and regional agencies (e.g., Discover Wauwatosa, Visit Milwaukee, Travel Wisconsin) to co-create, host and activate meaningful, destination-driven experiences.
• Evaluate event success and continuously improve programming by identifying and measuring KPIs

Economic Development & Business Support

•  Understand business longevity trends to help retain businesses within the district
• Identify opportunities to enhance the commercial corridor and overall experience
• Advocate for business needs and represent the district in City and community conversations
• Partner with regional organizations (e.g., Discover Wauwatosa, Visit Milwaukee, Travel Wisconsin) to expand reach and elevate East Tosa’s visibility beyond the immediate community

What We’re Looking For:

• Builder mentality: creates structure where it doesn’t yet exist
• Connector: brings people within the district together and builds trust
• Networker: builds relationships beyond the district to grow visibility and partnerships
• Self-starter: works independently while collaborating effectively with others
• Organized and detail-oriented: manages projects with strong attention to detail
• Creative thinker: brings a strong sense of place and community
• Local familiarity: knowledge of the East Tosa area is a plus

Experience & Qualifications:

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in nonprofit and volunteer management, economic development, marketing, or small business support Proven ability to build systems, manage multiple priorities, and execute independently
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills
• Experience working with volunteer boards, committees, or community organizations
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically while operating tactically
• Passion for local business, community development, and placemaking

Hours & Availability:

• Work hours will vary depending on programming, events, and seasonal needs (anticipated average of 20-25 hours per week)
• Must be available to attend and support events, including mornings, evenings, and weekends

Compensation Structure:

This role is structured as an independent contractor position and does not include benefits. Compensation will be provided as a monthly retainer, commensurate with experience.

Physical Demands:

This role requires the ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and assist with event setup and operational tasks. Work may take place both indoors and outdoors in varying conditions.