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PARKERSBURG - Downtown PKB on Monday announced Claire Berlin as its new executive director.
Berlin brings more than 18 years in strategic marketing, communications and organizational development to her role as head of the nonprofit organization dedicated to growth and revitalization in the city's central business district, according to a release announcing her hiring.
"Claire's experience, energy, and leadership qualities make her an excellent fit for Downtown PKB," Marvin Edwards, president of the Downtown PKB Board of Directors, says in the release. "We were looking for someone who could not only lead the organization, but also build relationships, promote our downtown businesses, and bring fresh ideas to the table. Claire brings all of those qualities, and we are excited about what she will bring to Downtown PKB."
Berlin serves as the director of academic marketing strategy at Ohio University, a position she has held for the past three years. Joining during the department's beginning stages, she worked under its leadership to help build foundational processes and strategy, the release says.
Berlin's professional experience also includes working within established budgets, strategic planning, grant writing and developing initiatives, the release says.
"As a native West Virginian and Mid-Ohio Valley resident, I couldn’t be more honored and excited to step into the role of executive director for Downtown PKB," Berlin says in the release. "Parkersburg's downtown has incredible momentum right now, and I’m looking forward to working alongside our dedicated Board, small business owners, city leadership, and community partners. Together, we will continue building a vibrant, welcoming, and economically thriving district where people love to shop, dine, work, and invest.”
In addition to her professional experience, Berlin is pursuing her certified business adviser certification, the release says.
Berlin will take over as executive director on Oct. 27. In that role, she will oversee the organization's Main Street programming, business and property owner engagement, downtown events and marketing, economic development initiatives, fundraising, historic preservation efforts, and partnerships in the community, the release says.
Berlin follows Amanda Stevens, who stepped down in August after five years in the role.