The Director of Downtown Springfield Incorporated plans to leave the job by the end of the year.
Victoria Clemons Ringer said in a news release "a good leader knows when it is time to step aside."
There is no word on her future plan or a replacement. Ringer plans to stay on until a successor is named.
DSI says membership is up since Ringer took over the role in 2004. The group promotes the downtown area and businesses.
The news release issued Tuesday:
While Downtown Springfield Inc. membership is at an all-time high and revenues are stable, Victoria Clemons Ringer has announced her plan to leave the post as Executive Director before the year’s end. “A good leader knows when it’s time to step aside,” Ms. Ringer said. “Whether you’re the CEO of a major manufacturer or the owner of a small business like many of our DSI members, succession planning is just that...planning for success. I want nothing more than to see DSI build on my successes and those of my predecessors.”
Under Ms. Ringer’s leadership, DSI has increased its membership by 125 percent, increased revenue more than 86 percent from 2004 to present and has boosted its profile and credibility within the community. DSI is involved in initiating policy in several areas such as panhandling, increasing downtown housing, beautification, developing small business incentives and the continued promotion of the downtown central business district.
Most importantly, Ms. Ringer said, she and DSI have given its members a voice both in city and state government. Downtown Springfield, Inc. has experienced increased exposure in our community and has obtained a “seat at the table” being recognized as an economic driver and protector of our historic downtown.
“The thing I’m most proud of is I have been able to use my contacts and expertise in the business community and government entities to advance downtown businesses,” she said. “Downtown Springfield is dear to me. It is what I have lived and breathed for over a decade. This was not an easy decision.”
Ms. Ringer will stay on until a new Executive Director can be named and through a sufficient transition period at the Board’s request. “I look very forward to sharing with the new DSI leader our many successes along with the challenges that come along with leading a not-for-profit organization. This is going to be an exciting transition and an even more exciting future for the businesses and community of Downtown Springfield.” Board President, Karen Conn, said, “Ms. Ringer has made significant contributions to DSI and the community by greatly expanding membership numbers, services provided and advocacy for downtown property and business owners. She has invested her heart and soul into this organization.
Additionally, Ms. Ringer’s willingness to stay on to assist with a smooth transition demonstrates her true dedication to DSI’s future and its success.” Ms. Ringer says she is proud to be leaving her position on a high note. She will be exploring future opportunities and looks forward to continuing her lifelong service to Springfield and the State of Illinois
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Karen Conn, President DSI Board of Directors
