Downtown Lexington group hires a Kentucky native as new CEO after extensive search

A group dedicated to marketing and bringing more people and businesses to downtown Lexington will soon have a new leader.

Allen McDaniel, a Central Kentucky native who attended the University of Kentucky and also has a master of public administration from Morehead State University, will begin Monday, according to the Downtown Lexington Partnership.

McDaniel, who has 10 years of experience in nonprofits and fundraising, was one of more than 100 people who applied for the position of president and CEO.

McDaniel was one of three finalists interviewed for the position, said Jennifer Taylor, chairwoman of the board.

“The decision was not easy, as all finalists brought a wealth of experience and energy to the table. We are at a pivotal moment full of opportunity and feel that under Allen’s leadership we can accomplish the most,” Taylor said.

McDaniel replaces Terry Sweeney, who stepped down in July to care for ill family members. Sweeney was the first director of the Downtown Lexington Partnership, which was created in 2017. The new group was a consolidation of the Downtown Lexington Corporation, which helped oversee and organize downtown events, and the Lexington Downtown Development Authority, which was more centered on business recruitment.

Laura Farnsworth, director of development and events, has served as interim director since July.

Allen said he hopes to champion and improve Kentucky’s second-largest city’s downtown.

“I’d also like to extend my thanks to the staff and board members that had the responsibility of overseeing day-to-day operations in the interim period,” Allen said. “I feel privileged to be a part of this amazing team! I share the passion for downtown and look forward to working with all DLP stakeholders.”

The Downtown Lexington Partnership, a nonprofit, oversees and organizes downtown events including the popular Thursday Night Live concert series, sponsored by Central Bank, many of the city’s Christmas activities and the running of the Triangle Park ice rink during the holiday and winter season. It also holds events and programs for downtown businesses.