Brandon Hesson has been named the new executive director of Cambridge Main Street. He starts his duties on July 1.

CAMBRIDGE — As Cambridge Main Street prepares for its Annual Taste of Cambridge Crab Cook-off and Festival on July 12, the Board of Directors appointed Brandon Hesson of Cambridge as its new executive director last evening. Mr. Hesson brings a diverse set of skills to the position, including a decade of nonprofit leadership and a track record of successful business development.

“The Executive Director position with Cambridge Main Street requires a unique skillset. We have been fortunate to have three great past directors since the inception of Cambridge Main Street. Brandon stood out during our search process from the beginning. We were delighted to have many wonderful candidates who wanted to be a part of the excitement that is occurring in Cambridge. In the end, we believe we have selected an ideal executive director who will continue the momentum of growth that is occurring in downtown Cambridge,” stated Tom Hutchinson, president of the Board of Directors.

Prior to joining Cambridge Main Street, Mr. Hesson worked in procurement at Sotera Defense Solutions and held management roles at both Eastern Shore Vacation Rentals and Chesapeake Publishing. However, his nonprofit experience as co-founder and executive board member of the community production companies Cricket Theatre and ArtHouse Live Productions in Easton will play a vital role in expanding on the success of Main Street. Mr. Hesson is also deeply committed to Cambridge Little League, where he serves as a board member and team manager.

“In a way, it’s a dream job, and will include some aspects from all of my past professional experiences. After being a sports editor for the Star Democrat, I was fortunate to be a part of two exciting and unique business experiences. We had to break the mold at Eastern Shore Vacation Rentals and often find creative solutions to complex issues, and Sotera taught me the importance of proven processes in a more structured organization,” said Mr. Hesson, who has lived in Cambridge for more than 12 years along with his wife Renee. “I grew up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and I am raising my family in this wonderful town. I am invested in Cambridge. The 10 years I spent directing nonprofits, working with volunteers and creating an exciting environment around community events will also play a huge role in how we move forward.”

Mr. Hesson will begin his role on July 1. Current Main Street executive director, Mari Stanley, has graciously agreed to remain onboard as co-director during the month of July to ensure both a fabulous Taste of Cambridge and a successful transition to Hesson.

For more detailed information on Cambridge, Main Street, including events, please visit www.cambridgemainstreet.com or www.facebook.com/CambridgeMainStreet.