Economic Development Strategist

About the role

The Economic Development Strategist plays a crucial role in developing and implementing economic development strategies aimed at attracting and retaining businesses, promoting commercial and industrial growth, and enhancing the city's economy.

Responsibilities

• Plans and develops comprehensive economic development strategies and advises the management team on implementing chosen initiatives.
• Ensures the City stays updated with the latest economic development practices and supports the Department's mission.
• Maintains the City's Economic Development Strategy and Work Plan, balancing economic development with permitting processes and City standards.
• Supports the Department management in economic development activities, including managing a database of vacant and undeveloped properties.
• Analyzes population and land use data to inform economic development plans and prepares reports and recommendations.
• Manages the economic development portion of the budget and assists with budget management.
• Researches and analyzes economic and market trends, evaluates property development potential, and develops position papers and marketing materials.
• Develops and maintains relationships with the business community, advisory groups, and other stakeholders to promote economic development.
• Secures development opportunities through state resources, manages enterprise activities, and coordinates consultant services.
• Tracks grant compliance and project performance, and prepares and presents information to various groups and elected officials.

Qualifications

• Eight (8) years of combined education and work experience in commercial/industrial real estate or brokerage, economic development, or related fields.
• OR an Associates degree in economics, marketing, community development, business, or public administration, plus six (6) years of experience.
• OR a Bachelor's degree in economics, marketing, community development, business, or public administration, plus four (4) years of experience.
• Preferred qualifications include certification as a Certified Economic Developer and formal economic development training.

Skills

• Project management.
• Grant writing, management, and administration.
• Effective communication and representation of the City.
• Interpretation and application of complex laws and regulations.
• Analysis and evaluation of economic development programs and policies.
• Use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for research, analysis, and communication.