Director of Economic Development

JOB OBJECTIVES:

Under the general supervision of the City Manager, the Director will oversee and direct the daily operations of CADC, including Economic Development Programs, Marketing, Special Projects, and the Chamber of Commerce. The Director will ensure the overall success of programs and services, working strategically to expand opportunities for local businesses and attract new investment to the region. This position will take a leadership role in the planning, development, and execution of key economic development initiatives, ensuring the efficient operation and growth of both the CADC and the Chamber of Commerce.

The Director will have primary responsibility for strategic planning, securing funding sources, overseeing financial reporting, and managing major business expansion projects. This role will provide expert leadership in grant writing, funding acquisition, business assistance, and event coordination. This position will work closely with business leaders, community stakeholders, and public agencies to strengthen the local economy.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead and direct public relations activities to enhance the reputation and visibility of the CADC and Chamber of Commerce.
• Oversee the reporting of all funding sources, including federal and state grants, ensuring proper tracking and compliance.
• Spearhead the writing and submission of federal and state grants to secure necessary funding for economic development initiatives.

4. Manage and provide oversight for the Chamber of Commerce, ensuring its strategic growth and engagement with the business community

5. Represent the City on the Rio South Texas Economic Council’s Board of Directors.

• Lead the Economic Development Corporation in the identification and execution of strategic initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth.
• Produce and present monthly expenditure and revenue reports, ensuring the efficient use of funds and the financial health of assigned programs and events.
• Guide and support the business community in expanding operations, creating jobs, and fostering economic development opportunities.
• Lead efforts to help businesses obtain funding and grants for expansion and job creation, collaborating with key stakeholders and agencies.
• Oversee programming and event coordination for the Chamber of Commerce, ensuring events align with strategic goals and provide value to local businesses.
• Oversee programming and event coordination for CADC, ensuring events and initiatives support economic development objectives.

12. Develop a business retention plan for the City.

• Prepare and maintain information, which will assist in responding to inquires about local economic development activities and opportunities in the City. This may include information regarding utilities, taxes, zoning, transportation, community services, and financing tools.
• Provide strategic guidance to business owners on compliance issues and work with local government agencies to ensure businesses remain compliant with all regulations.
• Establish and maintain key partnerships with local government, business owners, and community organizations to facilitate economic growth and development.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Proven ability to lead economic development initiatives, manage high-level programs, and secure funding through grants and other financial sources.
• Extensive experience in grant writing, program management, and public relations.
• Strong verbal, writing, and presentation skills ( English/Spanish highly preferred).
• Experience in financial oversight, including budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with financial policies and regulations.
• Expertise in planning, organizing, and executing large-scale events and programs.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with government, business leaders, and community partners.

JOB STANDARDS:

• B.A., B.S., or B.B.A., M.B.A., M.A., M.Ed., or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Additional applicable work experience may be substituted for the required degree or certificates on a year-to-year basis.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in economic development, community program management, or a related field, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $70,000 - $80,000