The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jenna Reilly as its new Executive Director. With almost 20 years of experience leading retail operations, driving strategic growth, and creating community-centered experiences, Reilly brings a combination of entrepreneurial leadership, business development expertise, and a deep commitment to fostering a vibrant, connected community.
Reilly joined the FDP as a business member in 2026 after co-founding Book a Break, a Franklin-based company that creates themed, multi-day literary retreats. Before launching Book a Break, Reilly built a long retail career with Tiffany & Co. in Massachusetts, New York and Texas. Most recently, she served as Store Director in Providence, where she was selected to help revitalize the business. Her leadership included strategic planning, team development, client engagement and events that attracted new audiences and drove record-setting results. She previously led the Chestnut Hill location, delivering sustained growth and cultivating a culture centered on service and employee engagement.
“Jenna brings an entrepreneurial mindset and business development expertise to identify new opportunities, increase the Partnership’s impact on downtown development and create even greater value for our FDP members,” said Scott Martin, President of the Franklin Downtown Partnership Board of Directors. “As we welcome Jenna, we also extend our deepest gratitude to our recently retired executive director, Lisa Piana. Throughout her remarkable 22-year tenure, Lisa was a passionate and tireless advocate for downtown Franklin. She was instrumental in growing our signature events to new heights and advancing downtown development in countless ways. The strong foundation she built will continue to shape our work for years to come.”
A Franklin resident for the past five years, Reilly lives in town with her husband and their two children. Her family has enjoyed FDP traditions including community festivals and the Ladybug Trail, giving her firsthand appreciation for the Partnership’s role in making downtown Franklin welcoming and vibrant.
“The sense of community here is something special, and it is in large part shaped by the thoughtful programming and events led by the Franklin Downtown Partnership. Experiencing events like the Strawberry Stroll and Harvest Festival has not only deepened my connection to the town, but also reinforced how impactful well-executed, community-driven initiatives can be in bringing people together and supporting local businesses. The opportunity to contribute to and grow that impact is incredibly meaningful to me,” Reilly said.
As Executive Director, Reilly will help build on FDP’s signature programming, strengthen relationships with local businesses and community partners, and identify new opportunities to support a thriving downtown. Her appointment comes during the Partnership’s 25th anniversary year, a milestone that offers an opportunity to celebrate FDP’s history while looking ahead to its next chapter.
“I’m very excited to serve the Partnership in this new capacity,” Reilly said. “This milestone year is a wonderful time to reflect on all that has been accomplished and to build thoughtfully on that strong foundation. I’m honored to help create positive impact in the years ahead.”
The Franklin Downtown Partnership is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents can join the Downtown Partnership for only $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as beautification, streetscape design, green space, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org.
