Feb. 4, 2025

Brandon Hanson has been named the new CEO of Downtown Sioux Falls Inc.

Hanson has served as interim CEO of the downtown membership-based organization since December when president Joe Batcheller resigned. Hanson joined DTSF as vice president in June 2024.

He was selected for the full-time CEO role following a national search guided by the DTSF board of directors with the support of an independent consultant.

“With ongoing discussions about the next generation of leadership in Sioux Falls, we are confident that DTSF is well positioned to embrace this new era of innovation and progress,” board chair Greg Koch said in a statement.

“Brandon has demonstrated exceptional ability in building relationships with key stakeholders and brings a compelling vision for the future of Downtown Sioux Falls. His dedication to serving the mission and membership of DTSF is truly inspiring, and we are excited for the continued growth and positive impact he will lead.”

Hanson was born in Iowa, graduated high school in South Sioux City and came to Sioux Falls to earn his undergraduate degree at the University of Sioux Falls, graduating in 2012. After pursuing an acting career on both coasts, he returned to Sioux Falls driven by his love for the city, he said.

Before joining the DTSF team, Hanson’s career included management roles in retail, five years at the Washington Pavilion where he ultimately served as director of museums and executive director of SculptureWalk, as well as leadership roles at EmBe and Embrace Church. He also earned his MBA from USF in 2021.

“DTSF exists to help move downtown forward by bringing people together and making downtown accessible for both the community and visitors in order to drive business activity that benefits everyone,” Hanson said.

“The ‘rising tide lifts all boats’ mentality of this organization is what excites me about leading it.”

Expect him to be a visible leader who enjoys building relationships with those throughout the downtown ecosystem, he said.

“Knowing our members by name is important to me, which is why I make it a priority to be out in the community — whether it’s serving beverages at Riverfest or engaging with businesses downtown,” Hanson said.

“In addition, we manage the downtown Business Improvement District, or BID, so if you’re within the downtown boundary, you’re likely part of the BID, and I want to know how we can support you.”

While he has performed on stage at the Orpheum Theater Center, Hanson said you’re now more likely to find him with his wife, Brittany, in the audience for shows of all sizes or discovering the kid-friendly side of downtown with their 2-year-old daughter.

“At DTSF, we’re here to serve the needs of the community, and that’s exciting. It’s energizing,” Hanson said.

“We’re a small team, but we’re really starting to align our focus on what members need. We want to be a proactive part of advancing conversations and initiatives that help make downtown even better.”