* Applicants MUST submit a cover letter with resume to be considered.

*This position will require in-office presence. Hybrid work schedules may be possible based on specific job duties and consistent with ESD policy.

*Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Please contact Human Resources if you require an accommodation.

BASIC FUNCTION:

In a nationally competitive market for expanding and reshoring manufacturing, this position will proactively drive site development across New York State by working with local, regional, and state-level stakeholders. Deep knowledge of permitting, utility interconnection, and site planning will be critical to successfully advancing New York’s inventory of shovel ready sites. This position will work with Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs) and Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) to identify and develop high value sites for attraction of key industries and be a resource as they develop the vision, resources, and execution plan to carry out the development. The Director will also serve as the internal expert on interconnection of power and other utilities and permitting relating to economic development projects. Prepare presentations, reports and briefings for senior leadership as needed.

WORK PERFORMED:

• Work with Industrial Development Agencies (IDAs) and Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) to identify and develop high value sites for attraction of key industries including manufacturing of semiconductors, clean tech, agribusiness and more.
• Provide guidance to ESD industry directors and regional directors with projects experiencing permitting, utility interconnection and other site development issues.
• Maintain an inventory of the best sites (both existing buildings and build to suit options) for key industry attraction.
• Host training sessions & consultations with IDAs and EDOs to develop the vision, resources, and execution plan for site readiness.
• Remain current on trends in site readiness including programs in competing states & provinces, best practices, and sources of funding for site development. Make this information available to stakeholders as appropriate.
• Work closely with the director of the FAST NY shovel ready grant program to seek out new sites & applications.
• Assist with the review of FAST NY grant submissions with a particular focus on utility plans and permitting status.
• Act as the primary liaison with the NY Department of Public Service, NYISO, and utilities to advocate the need for sufficient power for economic development. Engage with utilities on behalf of ESD in public proceedings as needed.
• Serve as the internal expert on interconnection and permitting relating to economic development projects and prepare presentations, reports and briefings for senior leadership as needed.
• Work with the marketing department to promote news and success stories involving site development within New York to build positive awareness of New York’s site development focus.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders including private industry, trade organizations, regional economic development organizations, property owners, and more.
• Develop policy and prepare recommendations for legislative action.
• Maintain complete and accurate data and files on the State’s most attractive sites.
• Prepare various documents, including project tracking, reports, presentations, briefings, spreadsheets, marketing materials and other items as needed.
• Regular travel is needed to support site development and business marketing initiatives.
• Assist in other various projects as directed by the department SVP.
• Position expected to work onsite and/or remote consistent with NYS and ESD guidelines and needs.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education: bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, urban planning, civil engineering, environmental science, architecture, or related fields.

Experience: 6 years’ leading the development of an industrial park or industrial sites including or in addition to, two years of public facing experience in economic development or real estate development, design and construction, or a similar function.

Knowledge Preferred: An understanding of the typical site needs of key industry clusters, including renewable energy, agribusiness, semiconductor supply chain and other advanced manufacturing. Enthusiasm for making a difference in communities across the state by creating family sustaining jobs in these high growth industries. Excellent written, oral and presentation skills essential. Proficiency in computer programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, necessary.

ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNAL CANDIDATES : A minimum of five years of satisfactory service in another (relevant) position with Empire State Development. Up to two years of accredited post-secondary education, or service in the U.S. Military may be substituted for service at ESD.