Discover Burien was founded in 2002 by a group of dedicated business leaders in Burien who wanted to have an organized and unified voice that could participate in the exceptional and exciting opportunities our city was undertaking. Since 2002 the organization’s membership has grown considerably with a continued focus on providing exceptional programs, events, and resources to the Burien business community, and working with city government to promote community development, destination marketing, and service.

“Economic Development is more than simply providing resources and benefits for the business community,” offered Andrea Reay, the organization’s outgoing Executive Director. “The most important and often underutilized tool in any economic development strategy is the community itself. What is successful now? How can that activity be supported or encouraged at a higher level? Is the community actively supporting their local businesses and vice versa? Our organization has always tried to tackle those questions with our programs and initiatives. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the organization as the Executive Director since December of 2013, and I am looking forward to continuing to serve as a member, volunteer and to help with the leadership transition.”

Ms. Reay will step down from the role as Executive Director over the coming months, allowing for a seamless transition of leadership. The Discover Burien board has named Denise Ferguson as the Acting Executive Director, while they conduct an open search. Denise is the current Administrative Assistant for Discover Burien, and a long time business owner in Olde Burien. She has been a member, volunteer, and supporter of Discover Burien since its inception. “I am committed to supporting the vision and mission of the organization, and look forward to making contributions towards its continued growth and vitality,” says Denise Ferguson.

Noel Gibb, President of the Discover Burien board, stated, “We wish Andrea success as she moves on to another leadership position working with Seattle Opera, and are thrilled that Denise has agreed to assume the role of Acting Executive Director. Denise has an extraordinary and comprehensive understanding of the Burien business climate, because she has experienced it herself. We look forward to supporting Denise, while the search committee reviews and interviews candidates.”

“I’m very happy and proud of everything that the organization has accomplished, and look forward to helping the organization through this transition, and for many years to come, both as a business member and active community member,” said Andrea Reay. “The best is yet to come; please join us in our mission to create and sustain a vibrant economy and dynamic community through promotion and education.”

The Executive Director works in partnership with the Board of Directors and staff to provide strategic organizational leadership, vision and direction for the organization. The Executive Director implements the plans, policies and budgets approved by the Board of Directors while overseeing the general management of Discover Burien programs; also representing it in the community. Areas of coverage include but are not limited to: Board of Directors/committee meeting organization and support, membership marketing and member benefit analysis and service, maintaining and implementing policies and procedures of the organization, managing marketing campaigns and press, budgeting/forecasting, general bookkeeping and tax reporting.

Qualified candidates will have practical experience working within the nonprofit environment, demonstrated knowledge of best business practices, and an enthusiasm to support and contribute to the Burien community.

Interested and qualified candidates can submit their resume along with their cover letter and salary requirements by emailing them to DiscoverBurienSearch@gmail.com or by mailing them to: Attention-Search Committee, Discover Burien 427 SW 152nd St Burien, WA 98166. All materials must be received by February 29, 2016 to be considered. Interviews will take place early April and candidates must be available to start early May. Starting salary will be $50,000 and compensation does include benefits. Interested parties can receive a full job description by emailing areay@discoverburien.org.

ABOUT DISCOVER BURIEN
The Discover Burien Association is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation working on economic development, business recruitment and retention, education, promotion, and marketing of the Burien community. We are a membership based organization, but do not limit our services to only members; we include the entire Burien business community. Discover Burien works with Burien businesses to find solutions to their problems, and to help educate or direct businesses to resources that are available. We also work as a liaison between businesses and city hall to help streamline issues.