Christina Haley discusses how a career that started in journalism eventually led to her taking the helm as President & CEO of Wilmington Downtown, Inc. (WDI), an organization dedicated to promoting the economic growth and development of downtown Wilmington. Haley discusses the importance of perseverance, the power of networking, and her passion for strengthening the economy of downtown Wilmington.

In her capacity as President and CEO of Wilmington Downtown, Inc. (WDI), Haley leads efforts to revitalize and drive economic growth in downtown Wilmington. Since joining WDI in 2021, she has overseen economic development initiatives, business recruitment, and the Municipal Services District (MSD), which provides safety, cleaning, and outreach services. She has strengthened key programs such as the Facade Improvement and Microloan Programs and is launching a new Public Safety Grant Program. Christina also spearheaded an economic impact study on Wilmington’s hospitality sector and led efforts to expand downtown’s Holiday Lighting Program and introduce Wilmington’s first daytime pilot social district. She serves as Chair of the Downtown Parking Advisory Committee, is a member of the Wilmington Convention Center Advisory Committee, and sits on the boards of the Public Archaeology Corps and the Wilmington Area Hospitality Association. She is also an active member of the North Carolina Downtown Development Association and the North Carolina Economic Development Association.