When Scott Knies joined SJDA, it was already incorporated, Business Improvement District consultants had already been engaged, city funding had been approved, a dozen board meetings had been held and a diverse 23-member board representing the business community was hard at work.

The San Jose Downtown Association is undertaking a nationwide search to replace longtime executive director Scott Knies, who was promoted to chief executive officer last week. Knies will step down Nov. 1, 2022, after 34 years with the organization, as part of a planned succession anticipated in its August 2020 strategic plan.

Katia McClain, a managing partner at architecture firm Steinberg Hart, will helm the San Jose Downtown Association board.