Executive Director

Summary:

Capitol Market seeks a dynamic new Executive Director to help create and execute a strategic vision to sustain and grow “Charleston’s Favorite Attraction.” The successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to work with the Board of Directors to help shape what this leadership position will become, including potentially reorganizing and/or increasing current staffing to maximize the market’s potential.

The Executive Director oversees the entire operation of this vibrant indoor-outdoor retail center and gathering space that is a beloved fixture in West Virginia’s charming riverfront capital city. As a 501c3 non-profit, Capitol Market supports more than a dozen growers/producers and 9 food/retail businesses open 7 days a week in a converted year-round 16,000-square-foot historic train station on the National Register of Historic Places.

Working with the board and staff, the Executive Director is responsible for executing annual strategic, operational, financial, marketing and development plans to ensure the continued viability of this nearly 30 year-old institution and its businesses. The ideal candidate needs to be a strategic thinker and collaborative leader responsible for overall administration and operations of Capitol Market. The Executive Director reports directly to the Board President and supports the efforts of the Board of Directors and its committees.

Compensation:

Capitol Market recognizes that extraordinary leadership requires extraordinary reward. The Executive Director position offers a competitive salary in the $85,000 – $110,000 range, commensurate with experience and vision. In addition to a negotiable benefits package, the board will consider performance-based incentives tied to organizational milestones – ensuring that success for the market also translates to success for its leader.

This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to shape the future of Charleston’s most beloved gathering place. For the right individual, both salary and staffing structure remain negotiable to reflect our commitment to attracting top talent and empowering bold, visionary leadership.

Experience Desired

• Demonstrated executive leadership skills
• Proven human resource management skills
• Experience in retail property management, operations and merchant relations
• Strong financial management skills
• Successful non-profit fundraising, including grant procurement and management
• Excellent communication skills
• Solid marketing, media and community relations skills
• Experience in non-profit organizational strategic planning

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience as outlined above
• Proficiency in accounting software, computers and other business technology tools

Job Duties

Operations, Management & Planning:

• Works with Board of Directors to develop and manage a long-term strategic plan
• Daily management of 1 part-time and 2 full-time staff members, including orientation to human resource policies, establishment of individual goals, annual evaluations, and disciplinary procedures
• Oversees development and maintenance of market budget, including financial analysis
• Liaison and supervision with contract employees
• Management of day-to-day relations with growers and indoor businesses, including lease renewals and recruitment of new businesses
• Orientation of new board members

Communications:

• Consistent and accurate communications with Capitol Market Board of Directors, including support for Retail Operations, Marketing, Maintenance, Planning & Development, Finance and Nomination committees
• Serve as spokesperson for the Capitol Market and nurture relationships with stakeholders and other organizations
• Represent Capitol Market at public meetings and with affinity organizations including:
  • West Virginia Department of Agriculture
  • City of Charleston
  • Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau
  • Charleston Area Alliance
  • West Virginia Department of Tourism
  • West Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association
• Oversee planning and execution of community events to maximize profitability and exposure
• Supervise marketing and communications staff on website maintenance, social promotion, paid advertising, and community engagement

Behavioral Skills:

• Demonstrates the utmost professionalism and ethical behavior
• Develops trust of clients, partners and staff by acting fairly, honestly and responsibly
• Effectively prioritizes work and responsibilities for themselves and their staff
• Ensures that market staff exceeds expectations of growers, indoor businesses and the public at large
• Provides the best quality service for both internal and external stakeholders

To Apply: Send a cover letter and resume to WVCapitolMarket@gmail.com by Oct. 10, 2025.