Description

The Director of Economic Development (DED) plays a pivotal role in strengthening the Black Cultural Zone (BCZ) Community Development Corporation (CDC). The DED is responsible for developing and leading the implementation of innovative programs that drive sustainable economic growth, attract and retain legacy and under-represented business owners and entrepreneurs, foster a thriving business environment within the BCZ, and cultivate a skilled and diverse workforce. The DED has a proven track record of success in economic development, exceptional leadership skills, and a deep commitment to advancing racial equity and supporting our community. The DED is the architect of a thriving and prosperous Black Cultural Zone where residents can succeed economically and culturally.

Position Key Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Strategic Planning & Program Development

  • Conduct a comprehensive economic analysis of the BCZ to identify industry clusters, target sectors for growth, and emerging trends, explicitly focusing on fostering opportunities for BIPOC businesses and entrepreneurs.

  • Develop a data-driven economic development strategy aligned with the BCZ CDC's long-term vision and goals, prioritizing equitable outcomes for legacy and current underrepresented residents.

  • Design and implement innovative programs to

    • Attract new and retain existing businesses owned and operated by legacy and underrepresented communities within the BCZ.

    • Expand access to capital and resources for legacy and under-represented entrepreneurs.

    • Stimulate entrepreneurship and innovation within legacy and under-represented communities.

    • Develop a skilled and diverse workforce that meets the needs of local businesses.

  • Oversee the development and management of the economic development budget, ensuring efficient resource allocation with a focus on supporting businesses owned and operated by legacy, underrepresented, and BCZ communities.

• Workforce Development & Business Development

  • Lead the development and execution of targeted workforce development programs that address the specific needs of legacy and underrepresented residents in the BCZ and prepare them for in-demand jobs.

  • Collaborate with educational institutions, community organizations, training providers, and the BCZ CDC to create pathways to employment for Black residents.

  • Develop and implement programs to provide technical assistance, mentorship, and access to capital for Black businesses within the BCZ, fostering their growth and sustainability.

  • Advocate for policies and initiatives that promote a fair and inclusive business environment for Black entrepreneurs within the BCZ.

• Community & Partnership Development

  • Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders within the BCZ, including businesses owned and operated by legacy and underrepresented communities, educational institutions, government agencies, community organizations, chambers of commerce, and workforce development boards.

  • Build and manage a network of strategic partnerships to leverage resources, expertise, and connections for economic development and workforce development initiatives that prioritize the Black community within the BCZ.

  • Advocate for policies and initiatives that promote a positive business environment within the BCZ, such as tax incentives, streamlined permitting processes, and workforce development programs that address the needs of businesses owned and operated by underrepresented communities.

  • Oversee and participate in community outreach efforts within the BCZ to promote economic development opportunities, highlight the community's unique assets, and ensure legacy and underrepresented residents are aware of available resources and programs offered by the BCZ CDC.

• Program Management & Evaluation

  • Provide effective leadership and mentorship to a team of economic and workforce development professionals within the BCZ CDC.

  • Develop and implement performance metrics to track the progress and impact of economic and workforce development programs, specifically focusing on measuring their effectiveness in promoting equity and inclusion within legacy and underrepresented communities.

  • Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of economic development and workforce development initiatives, identify areas for improvement, and implement adjustments as needed.

Qualifications

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong understanding of economic development principles, best practices, and emerging trends, focusing on inclusive economic growth strategies for BIPOC communities.

• Deep understanding of workforce development principles and best practices, particularly those focused on closing the skills gap and promoting opportunities for BIPOC communities.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights for equitable economic development within the Black Cultural Zone.

• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to connect with diverse stakeholders.

• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with business leaders, government officials, community organizations, and educational institutions.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, economic development research tools, grant writing software, and workforce development management systems.

• Experience with project management methodologies and a proven track record of delivering successful economic and workforce development projects focusing on equity and supporting Black communities.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize competing demands.

• Highly motivated and results-oriented with a strong work ethic and a willingness to go the extra mile.

• Ability to travel as needed to attend conferences, meetings, and site visits within the Black Cultural Zone and surrounding areas.

• Deep understanding of legacy and underrepresented communities' unique challenges and opportunities, particularly those relevant to the specific BCZ.

• A demonstrated commitment to racial equity and a passion for empowering legacy and underrepresented residents and businesses.

• Experience working with nonprofit organizations and a strong understanding of the nonprofit funding landscape.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economic Development, Workforce Development, Urban Planning, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in economic or workforce development, with a proven track record of success in developing and implementing programs that promote racial equity and support Black communities.

• Experience in a leadership role within the economic or workforce development field, with a demonstrated commitment to serving Black communities.

• Experience working with a Community Development Corporation (CDC) is a plus.

Physical Demands: 

Essential functions of the position require the employee to use a telephone, work at a standard computer terminal, and be able to follow reasonable ergonomic recommendations, sit for long periods, make repetitive motions, stand, reach, lift, carry 20 pounds, and bend. A valid Driver’s License and current auto insurance are required for logistics and event coordination. 

NOTE: The statements herein describe the general nature and level of work employees assigned to this classification perform. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. The Leads certify that this ROLE DESCRIPTION accurately describes the responsibilities assigned to the position.