Director Economic Development

Job Title: Director of Economic Development Reports To: Mayor or Chief of Staff

Position Overview:

The Director of Economic Development will be a key leader within the City of Gary, responsible for driving economic growth and fostering relationships between the city and local, businesses, organizations, and government agencies. This position will serve as the main liaison between the city and private sector businesses, advocating for new development projects, and expanding the city's economic base. The Director will also work closely with various city departments, external stakeholders, and the Mayor's Office to implement economic strategies aligned with the city's long-term vision.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Business Liaison
   • Serve as the primary point of contact between the city and local, and national, businesses, and investors.
   • Lead and oversee all business retention & expansion visits.
   • Promote Gary as a competitive location for business investment and expansion, showcasing available resources, incentives, and city support.
   • Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including corporate executives, small business owners, and industry leaders.

1. Project Development and Facilitation
   • Collaborate with other city departments to streamline permitting, zoning, infrastructure, and financing processes.
   • Identify potential development sites, negotiate deals, and work to resolve any barriers to successful project implementation.
2. Economic Strategy and Planning:
   • Develop and implement comprehensive economic development strategies aimed at job creation, tax base expansion, and sustainable growth.
   • Analyze market trends, demographics, and economic data to inform the city's development priorities.
   • Create and execute a forward-thinking strategic plan that aligns with the long-term goals of Gary and its stakeholders.
     • Lead efforts to secure state and federal funding for economic development initiatives, including grant writing and management of public-private partnerships.
     • Manage the Economic Development Commission when, and if, created.
       • Establish and maintain strong relationships with elected officials and integral leaders within the City and beyond.

1. Incentive Program Management:
   • Oversee the development, administration, and promotion of incentive programs such as tax abatements, Opportunity Zones, and other economic development tools.
   • Educate businesses and developers on available city, state, and federal incentives to attract and retain investments.

1. Marketing and Outreach:
   • Promote the city’s economic opportunities through marketing campaigns, attending conferences, and representing Gary in key regional and national economic forums.
   • Collaborate with the communications team to develop and distribute materials that highlight the city’s development-friendly environment.
     • Act as a spokesperson for the city's economic development initiatives and programs.
     • Represent Gary on travel junkets.
       • Identify and pursue new economic development opportunities, including business retention, expansion, and attraction.
       • Collaborate with local educational institutions, workforce agencies, and business leaders to align workforce development programs with the needs of the community.
       • Oversight and direction of lead activity, site visits, and incentive negotiations
       • Provide leadership in workforce development through programs.
       • Collaborate with local educational institutions, workforce agencies, and business leaders to align workforce development programs with the needs of the community, with particular focus on the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC).

Community Engagement:

• Engage with local community groups, businesses, and residents to understand their needs and ensure that development projects benefit the broader community.
• Participate in public meetings and hearings to present and explain economic development projects and strategies.

1. Budget and Fiscal Responsibility:
   • Manage the Economic Development Department's budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and successful return on investment for economic initiatives.
   • Provide regular reports to the Mayor and City Council on project progress, financial impacts, and future opportunities.

Qualifications:

• Must be outgoing, self-motivated, and charismatic.
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Affairs, Economic Development, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• At least 7-10 years of experience in economic development, urban planning, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of economic development strategies, and government incentive programs.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with public officials, developers, and community groups.
    • Proven experience managing development projects from inception through completion.
    • Knowledge of local, state, and federal economic development funding sources.
      • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic economic plans that deliver measurable results.