The Board of Directors of the Montclair Center Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to announce the appointment of Abhishake Shah as its new Executive Director. Shah, who previously served as Assistant Director under Jason Gleason, was appointed interim Executive Director while the board conducted a search for potential candidates. His exemplary leadership during this interim period solidified his selection as the right person to lead the BID into the future.
“Abhishake’s time as Assistant Director has given him unique insight into the needs of our business and property owners, as well as the interests of our visitors. The Board is excited to continue working with him as he takes on this important role, and we are confident in his ability to ensure Montclair Center thrives for years to come,” said Jarmilla Packard, Board President of Montclair Center BID.
Ernst Goldman, Vice President of the BID Board, added, “Abhi’s leadership has already had a significant impact on the district, particularly through his efforts to secure funding and improve public spaces. We look forward to seeing how he will continue to shape the future of downtown Montclair, bringing new ideas, partnerships, and initiatives that will benefit our businesses and residents alike.”
Abhishake Shah, known to many as Abhi, will oversee all BID projects and initiatives for 2025, including signature events such as the Montclair Art Walk in April, Summer Sunday in June, and the highly anticipated Winter Wonderland on Small Business Saturday in November.
As the first person of color and the youngest individual to ever hold the position of Executive Director at the Montclair Center BID, Shah’s appointment marks a historic moment for the organization. Under Shah’s leadership, the BID will continue to focus on placemaking, public art initiatives, and enhancing Montclair Center’s reputation as a premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Shah was named Assistant Director of the BID in 2023, bringing with him an extensive background in community building and nonprofit management and operations. From becoming the youngest person elected to the Board of Education in his hometown of Carlstadt, NJ, to his work in child advocacy in Essex County, his dedication to community service has permeated his career. With his “Love All, Serve All” ethos; Shah brings a passion for connection-building that makes him a natural fit for the leadership role.
As Assistant Director, he played a critical role in securing record-breaking grant funds for the BID, surpassing all previous efforts with the exception of the extraordinary circumstances of 2020. He also spearheaded the Arts Connect Project, which brought a striking new mural to the façade of Pilgrim Medical Center, revitalizing a key area in downtown Montclair.
“I am truly honored to step into this role and lead such a vibrant and dynamic organization,” said Shah. “Montclair Center is a place of incredible energy, creativity, and opportunity, and I am committed to working with the community to further enhance its appeal as a destination for residents and visitors alike.”
Abhi is thrilled to enter this role as the BID prepares for the much-anticipated Winter Wonderland event on November 30th. “This event is a great opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate a time of connection and festivity. The best thing about shopping small is meeting the people who make the magic happen and seeing how dedicated they are to making something beautiful for their community. I can’t think of a better way to kick off this new chapter of my and the BID’s story.”
For more information on Winter Wonderland and other upcoming events and BID initiatives, visit www.montclaircenter.com.