Economic Development Director
Summary
Performs a variety of administrative, technical and professional work in preparation and implementation of economic and community development plans, programs, and services. This full- time position is responsible for working closely with the Economic Development Committee, City Manager, and other City staff in promoting the business and economic development interests within the community. The Director will work with all noted departments in providing guidance to individuals and companies to establish, relocate, or expand their businesses within the community. The Director will provide assistance in the planning and coordination of community development projects, assisting business applicants with local and State permitting processes, and providing research for City sponsored projects. This position is a direct report of the City Manager.
Essential Functions
Works with both the Community and Economic Development Committee and Economic Development Advisory Board to create goals and objectives for the Economic Development Plan.
Provides assistance in the development of short and long term economic and community development plans, as well as the gathering of information and preparation of studies, reports, and recommendations to achieve such goals. This will involve the preparation and maintenance of information on utilities, taxes, zoning, transportation, community services, financial tools and incentives, in order to respond to requests for information for economic development purposes, and the coordination with other departments and agencies as needed.
Provides professional economic development advice, assist in the application and permitting process, and serve as an advocate for economic development in line with the Comprehensive Plan, zoning ordinances, and goals as established by the City.
Becomes familiar with the existing inventory of available buildings, business and residential development sites within the community. This will include public as well as private buildings and land areas.
Assists with negotiation and the management of professional service contracts, property sales or acquisition, and economic development-oriented negotiations, as assigned.
Serves as a member of economic development groups or task force that promote economic and community development at the State or Federal level as deemed necessary or appropriate. Monitors legislation and regulations relating to economic development, and report findings to the appropriate impacted parties, i.e. City Manager, Community and Economic Development Committee, City Council, etc.
Maintains strong working relationships with area businesses, clients and media. Serves as a member of various staff committees, as assigned.
Competencies
- Technical Capacity
- Thoroughness
- Collaboration Skills
- Communication Proficiency
- Critical Thinking
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Work Environment
This is primarily an office position.
Physical Demands
This position will require walking and other physical exertion as needed to show properties to a prospective business.
Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Normal days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, consistent with the current City Hall/Annex hours. This position may require nonstandard working hours to meet deadlines and to attend evening meetings.
Travel
Travel is expected for this position.
Required Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in an economic development or related field or equivalent experience to perform the essential functions of the job.
- Five years’ municipal or related experience.
Preferred Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in economic development related field.
- Eight years proven economic development experience in a municipality.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.