Chief Executive Officer
Baltimore Public Markets Corporation is a non-profit organization established in 1995, dedicated to managing and revitalizing the historic public markets of Baltimore. As the
oldest continuously operating public market system in the United States, Baltimore Public Markets Corporation oversees six vibrant markets located in diverse
neighborhoods across the city. These markets offer a unique blend of local produce, fresh seafood, artisanal goods, and diverse culinary experiences. The corporation is
committed to preserving the rich heritage of Baltimore’s public markets while fostering economic development, community engagement, and cultural diversity. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Baltimore Public Markets Corporation aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike by providing accessible, high-quality market experiences.
Of these six markets, Lexington Market is a separate legal entity and Cross Street Market is under private management. The markets have grown and now work with a
budget of approximately $8.5 million with approximately 70+ employees. In November 2024, Paul Ruppert stepped down as President & CEO. The Board of
Directors now seeks a new leader to steward the oldest public markets system in the United States through its next stage of evolution.
CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION
Baltimore Public Markets Corporation’s Board of Directors is looking to appoint a new President & CEO with strong financial expertise to lead the oldest public markets
system in the United States. The CEO will deliver on the following key aspects of the role:
Strategic Planning and Operating
• In conjunction with the Board, develop and implement a strategic and sustainable vision for BPMC aligned with the organization’s mission in Baltimore.
• Lead an inclusive strategic planning process seeking input from all of the markets’ stakeholders.
• Operationalize with the senior management team the execution of said strategic plan.
• Drive operational performance of the markets to maximize community impact and economic viability.
• Measure performance, milestones and outcomes to drive further improvement as BPMC repositions itself for growth.
Fiscal Management
• Develop and manage the organization’s annual budget and long-term financial plan, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
• In partnership with the CFO, build effective key financial performance indicators and a stronger financial planning and analysis capability.
• Monitor financial performance, providing regular updates to the Board of Directors and stakeholders.
• Identify and implement cost-saving measures while maintaining high-quality operations.
People Leadership
• Lead, mentor, recruit, develop and retain a team of senior management for BPMC.
• Manage the performance of the senior management team in alignment with BPMC’s annual objectives and overall strategic plan.
• Ensure BPMC’s organizational, role and compensation design can support the organization’s strategic goals.
• Fosters an organizational culture of transparency, clarity of communication, respect, empowerment and collaboration.
• Partner with relevant organizations in the community to seek out opportunities to build an inclusive employee population.
Fundraising and Partnerships
• Develop partnerships with philanthropic organizations, corporate partners, and community stakeholders with shared common goals.
• Lead efforts alongside the Board to secure funding from diverse sources, including grants, sponsorships, public funding, and private donors.
• Develop and execute capital campaigns for market renovations and revitalization, and new programs.
Real Estate Development
• Oversee development, renovation, and maintenance of market facilities, ensuring they are safe, modern, and reflective of community needs.
• Manage relationships with developers, contractors, and city officials to execute real estate projects efficiently and effectively.
• Identify opportunities for market expansion and redevelopment to maximize community impact.
Small Business Support
• Create an entrepreneurial environment to increase small business formation and enhance community economic development in Baltimore.
• Develop strong vendor management processes to attract, support, and retain small businesses, particularly minority-owned and local enterprises.
• Build formal and informal support systems to enhance and stabilize the quality and consistency of what vendors offer.
• Enhance customer experience & increase foot traffic/marketing initiatives.
• Enable vendors to build ecommerce and digital/online sales channels to improve profitability and sustainability.
• Provide resources, mentorship, and training opportunities for market vendors’ businesses to grow.
• Be a leader frequently visible at the market sites themselves and therefore accessible to vendor stakeholders.
Community Engagement
• Serve as ambassador for BPMC via strong relationships with community and city leaders, residents, and businesses.
• Ensure the markets reflect and serve Baltimore’s diverse communities, promoting healthy and sustainable food access.
• Create programs and partnerships that enhance the markets’ role as both community hubs and tourist destinations.
Governance and Reporting
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set organizational goals and policies.
• Provide transparent and timely reporting on financial, operational, and strategic matters.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements.
Desired Outcomes Defining Success:
• A robust vision for BPMC’s future and a well-crafted strategic plan with measurable operational goals and outcomes leading to financial and operational sustainability within 3-5 years’ time.
• An innovative operating model leveraging public and private partnerships and diverse funding resources which builds a strong foundation on which to
grow BPMC to its next phase of evolution as a community anchor in Baltimore.
• An organizational culture that values innovation, achievement of results, fiscal responsibility, inclusion and long-term sustainability.
QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, nonprofit management, public administration, or a related field.
• Progressively responsible leadership in multi-site social enterprise and non-profit organizations.
• Individuals with real estate development experience in addition to social enterprise leadership and urban planning are preferred.
• Strong financial management skills with experience in disciplined budgeting, fundraising, and fiscal oversight.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire staff, board members, and external partners.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex operational challenges and bureaucracy.
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams and foster a positive organizational culture.
• Collaborative and inclusive, fostering strong relationships across diverse communities.
• Innovative thought leader with experience developing multi-year strategic roadmaps with strong delivery and execution skills.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Adaptable and flexible, with a solutions-oriented approach to leadership.
• Passion for community engagement and supporting local businesses.
• Results-oriented, with a focus on achieving measurable impact.
COMPENSATION
The position offers a competitive salary ($190,000-220,000) and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. The board is open to adjusting salary as the financial position of the markets strengthens through development.