Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Downtown Springfield, Incorporated needs a new executive director.

A news release Tuesday morning said the DSI board and Carlos Ortega have mutually decided Ortega will leave the organization.

“The DSI Board thanks Carlos for his leadership over the last two years,” said David Lee, DSI Board President, in a news release. “As we begin the search for our next executive director, we are focused on identifying a leader who can build strong relationships and continue advancing DSI’s mission to enrich the downtown experience for residents, businesses and visitors.”

DSI communications director Jay Shanle has been named the interim executive director.

“In addition to his current roles, Shanle previously served six years on the DSI Board of Directors and on the INB Fire Fund Committee,” said the DSI news release. He has worked with DSI’s signature events and programs including the annual awards dinner, Friend of the Market Street Dinner and Momentum on Main Street programs.

Ortega, who was executive director for two years, is credited with shepherding DSI into 501(c)3 status, from a 501(c)6.