Downtown Association executive director resigns

After two years as executive director of the Downtown Association, Salvatore Marchese has resigned.

Marchese came to the Sault from Toronto after a full year of recruiting by the business improvement area's board.

He will continue to live in Sault Ste. Marie, association members were advised late Friday afternoon.

"I have been honoured to be a part of the Downtown Association and the businesses that make it up," Marchese told SooToday.

"I leave grateful for the time I have been there and wish the association the best path forward. Sault Ste. Marie has welcomed me with open arms and I will continue to call it home. I can't wait for this next chapter."

"It is with mixed emotions that the Downtown Association board of directors has accepted the resignation of our executive director Salvatore Marchese," the association said in a statement to its membership.

"The board of directors and our community has had the tremendous benefit of his leadership and expertise since he took on the role of executive director in January of 2021.

"With Salvatore’s educational background in urban planning and economic development and previous work experience with the MarkeTO Business Improvement Area, the Downtown Association has been very fortunate to have him to lead and guide the association in its mandate.

"He has further strengthened the ties to many community partners including the City of Sault Ste. Marie and helped to bring many successful events to downtown, while continuing to help grow Downtown Associative initiatives already in place."

Marchese was hired on Dec. 10, 2020, with an announcement made at the association's annual meeting later that day.

His last day at the Downtown Association will be March 3, less than a week before this year's annual meeting on March 9 at Mane St. Café, 626 Queen St. E.

Recruiting to fill Marchese's vacancy has already started.