Executive Director - Invest DSM, IA

Company: National Community Development Association (NCDA)
Location: Des Moines
Posted on: June 1, 2025

Job Description:

Des Moines, Iowa (population 214,200) - Through a strategic partnership between the City of Des Moines and Polk County, Invest DSM was launched in 2019. It is a first-of-its kind nonprofit and community development organization that combines public and private funding to nurture vibrant, healthy, thriving neighborhoods. The Invest DSM Board of Directors is searching for a talented, energetic, resourceful, and visionary leader to become its next Executive Director.About Invest DSMInvest DSM was formed based on national best practices, where four middle-market neighborhoods were selected as pilot areas for a long-term strategy of neighborhood investment. Through tailored direct service programs and partnerships, Invest DSM empowers residents and business owners in these Special Investment Districts to improve their properties, strengthen their social connections, and create a community that works for them. This program has generated long-term sustainability and new investments in the Special Investment Districts by allowing the neighborhood to grow in value, refurbish homes, build new homes, and create vibrant neighborhoods where residents live, work, play, and shop.In its first six years, Invest DSM has completed nearly 50 single-family housing rehabilitation projects in six selected neighborhoods in Des Moines. The organization is preparing to certify additional neighborhoods for participation in its various neighborhood improvement programs.As the strategy proves successful over time, Invest DSM hopes to expand the boundaries of the Special Investment Districts and make more neighborhoods eligible for funding, transforming residential areas into diverse, mixed-income neighborhoods with rising home prices, a variety of housing options, and thriving local business districts.The OrganizationInvest DSM is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organization that is principally funded by the City of Des Moines and Polk County. The organization employs eight full-time staff, including the Executive Director. It is governed by an eleven (11) member Board of Directors consisting of six (6) elected officials from the City of Des Moines and Polk County, and five (5) representatives from the local business community.The Executive DirectorThe Executive Director serves as the CEO of the organization and reports directly to the Board of Directors. The Executive Director oversees all operations and programs of Invest DSM. The Executive Director is responsible for making professional recommendations on all policy matters that come before the Board of Directors. The current Executive Director has served in that position since the inception of the organization and is leaving voluntarily to pursue a new professional opportunity. This is considered a high-profile position in the community with a high degree of visibility.Candidates for the position shall have, at a minimum, a bachelor's degree in urban planning, finance, accounting, business administration, public administration, real estate, or some other relevant degree. A master's degree is preferred but not required. Candidates should also possess at least ten (10) years of progressively responsible managerial and/or administrative experience, preferably with a public sector or not-for-profit organization(s). Targeted experience in organizational management, development, and/ or planning/urban design will be beneficial.The ideal candidate for the position will possess the following technical skills, leadership traits, personal attributes, and professional experience:

• Experience working on matters or issues pertaining to community development, housing, and/or neighborhood development.
• Understands the basic principles involved in real estate acquisition and development, macroeconomics, and finance.
• Has a strong business acumen with the ability to assimilate and analyze complex issues and problems and has a solid understanding of financing practices and procedures.
• An excellent communicator who can effectively convey the mission of the organization to a variety of audiences.
• Is self-aware, has high emotional intelligence, and possesses excellent political instincts.
• Has a successful track record in dealing with media, both print and broadcast.
• Is a strong collaborative leader who can create a team-oriented culture within the organization and will inspire and motivate members of the staff while establishing clear performance expectations.
• Is a strong relationship builder who can establish and maintain excellent working relationships with all of the stakeholders of Invest DSM.
• Has proven budgeting and financial management skills to ensure that the organization's funds are used appropriately, with transparency and accountability.
• Accepts responsibility for the actions and performance of the organization and will accept criticism with maturity and objectivity.
• Is a visionary leader who can assist the Board of Directors in charting a future course for Invest DSM.Compensation and How to ApplyThe starting annual salary for the position is $175,000 to $200,000 DOQ/E. The Executive Director will also receive a competitive and comprehensive package of fringe benefits. Relocation assistance will be negotiated with the successful candidate. Apply online at with a resume, cover letter, and contact information for five (5) work-related references by June 23, 2025. Confidential inquiries about the position should be directed to Mark Peterson, MGT Approved Independent Executive Recruiter, at (309) 825-5091.Invest DSM is an equal opportunity employer.
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Keywords: National Community Development Association (NCDA), Waterloo , Executive Director - Invest DSM, IA, Executive , Des Moines, Iowa