Economic Development Project Manager – Small Business and Entrepreneurship

There are currently two (2) vacancies in the Economic Development Department. One position will support the emerging field of Creative Economy & Industry Development, while the other will support Small Business and Entrepreneurship. This recruitment will also establish a Citywide eligible list for potential future vacancies.

Description & Duties

An Economic Development Project Manager plans, organizes, monitors, manages, and evaluates economic development project activities. Responsibilities include coordinating, directing, and implementing programs and projects that support:

• Commercial, office, and industrial development
• Business development
• Workforce development
• Attraction of and assistance to domestic and international businesses
• Development of public facilities and infrastructure
• Small business development initiatives
• Other economic development, redevelopment, or capital improvement programs or projects

Work requires considerable independent judgment and initiative in combining professional planning and economic development knowledge with analytical skills to solve complex, technical problems. Employees may be required to work evenings and/or weekends for special events or programming coverage. This role may functionally supervise Economic Development Specialist(s) and/or office support staff.

Responsibilities

• Overall management of economic development project activities
• Support entrepreneurs and small businesses through resource connections, technical assistance, strategic partnerships, and programs that encourage business formation, growth, and long-term success (Small Business and Entrepreneurship assignment)

Requirements

All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City’s shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.

• Any combination of training, education, and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Economic Development, Public or Business Administration, Commercial Real Estate, Urban Planning, Marketing, Arts Management, Creative Industries, or a related field
• Extensive (5+ years) progressively responsible work experience in economic development, redevelopment, marketing, commercial real estate development, business assistance, public facility, infrastructure development, or workforce development, including supervision or management of projects and programs
• Valid Class D Arizona Driver’s License by hire or promotion date

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Economic Development, Public or Business Administration, Commercial Real Estate, Urban Planning, Marketing, Arts Management, Creative Industries, or a related field
• Membership in related professional organizations
• Ability to speak a second language
• Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) or current certification in a related field
• Experience working in a downtown setting with multiple stakeholders (e.g., business improvement districts, enhanced municipal services districts, convention and visitor bureaus)
• Contract negotiation and management experience
• Grant writing experience