AMHERST — A Pelham resident with experience in economic development, event management and advocating for businesses in roles at both the University of Massachusetts and the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce becomes the Amherst Business Improvement District’s executive director starting Oct. 16.

John Page, a lifelong Amherst area resident and assistant director for University Events at UMass, was named to the position Tuesday.

Page said in a statement that he is ready to champion the town’s “bright future.”

“I look forward to building on the solid foundation laid by my predecessors, advocating for our downtown and amplifying our status as a premier destination that is welcoming to all,” Page said.

Page, the fourth permanent executive director for the organization created in 2011, succeeds Gabrielle Gould, who left the position in February after more than four years overseeing the BID.

The selection of Page was made by the BID’s board of directors.

“We were drawn to his knowledge and experience in the community, and his can-do spirit,” said Barry Roberts, the BID board president. “John is unafraid to roll up his sleeves and work hard, and he is well-known and respected locally for his dedication to Amherst, especially its downtown.”

After leading marketing and events for the chamber and focusing on economic development issues, grant writing and tourism initiatives while there, Page moved to UMass, but over the past few months has been involved, on a contract basis, with the Amherst BID, including being a main organizer of the recent Block Party and spearheading the summer concert series.

In recent years, Page’s role at UMass has included planning and executing major events, including the commencement ceremony, and reimagining the 2024 UMass Founders Day celebration, featuring 35 events across campus, many of which were open to the broader community.

A graduate of both Amherst Regional and UMass, Page holds leadership roles on several community boards and committees, including the Pelham Cultural Council and the Amherst Education Foundation, and has been an organizer of Amherst LGBTQ+ Pride events. He was a candidate for the inaugural Amherst Town Council in 2018, and has been active in local political campaigns and causes.

Page’s family has lived in the area for seven generations. He brings familiarity with Amherst from his upbringing.

“I grew up in town, walking into town after class in middle school,” Page said. “I lived downtown through college. I’ve worked at the chamber and promoted local businesses. I understand and cherish downtown Amherst for the special and unique place it is. I cannot wait to get to work.”

The Amherst BID is a nonprofit economic development organization created through a special assessment paid by property owners within the district. Money collected covers the costs of providing programs and services, hiring staff, creating events and doing marketing and beautifying the streetscape.

Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.