What are the responsibilities and job description for the Economic Development Manager position at Forsyth County, GA?
Position Information
The purpose of this classification is to pursue economic development for the County of Forsyth, including but not limited to, business retention, expansion and attraction programs, property acquisition assistance, disposition assistance, project management, and business relocation. This position will serve as a liaison between the County of Forsyth, the Development Authority (FCDA), the Chamber of Commerce as well as between businesses located within the county’s boundaries. This position works under the County Manager developing and implementing programs within organizational policies and reports major activities as needed and required. This is an “at will” position appointed by the County Manager and is not covered under Civil Service provisions.
Job Summary
The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of certain duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Serves as the County Manager’s primary point of contact to the Forsyth County Development Authority, the Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, and the Forsyth County Board of Education and other outside public and private entities to pursue and secure economic development opportunities advantageous to the county. Coordinates the projects throughout internal life cycle processes related to permitting and inspections within County departments to aid in the smooth and timely completion of the business projects. Coordinates with related outside agencies, including the City of Cumming, the Health Department, and with the County Attorney.
Research, recommend, and assist in applying for various grants to improve County-wide infrastructure for the purpose of fostering economic development.
Manages a diverse project portfolio with small and large-scale developments while meeting the requirements of County Ordinances.
Manages the work-flow status within various County departments and divisions and outside agencies relating to the business projects. Consults with County staff up to, and including, department heads to expedite project processing through the necessary reviews and approvals, emphasizing the impact of the project process from a private business perspective. Oversees cross-departmental problem-solving associated with complex project issues, providing technical expertise and guidance to move projects to the next phase in a timely and efficient manner. Directs meetings, as necessary, between County agencies, external applicants, and others – including elected officials such as County Commissioners, as well as Chamber of Commerce and/or Development Authority representatives.
Provides information and technical assistance to clients concerning County’s zoning and development process, plan review process, code requirements, code compliance and related issues; assists business development clients in progressing through the County’s application process for plan review submittal; discusses construction plans, permit procedures, status of plan review and problem areas; discusses client’s responsibilities with project-related property owners, developers, contractors, subcontractors, engineers and architects; responds to questions or complaints, researches problems and initiates problem resolution.
Works with the Chamber Economic Development to provide timely response to requests for information from clients; provides assistance and information to residents, developers, contractors, attorneys, and County officials regarding planning/zoning issues, land use issues, code/ordinance interpretations, development policies, site plans, plan reviews, review procedures, permits, fees, documentation, zoning conditions compliance or other issues; responds to questions/complaints, researches problems, and initiates problem resolution
Fosters collaboration between businesses and the County, via business recruitment, improving public infrastructure, and providing business centric related community events, informational resources, and other services.
Garners business and corporate support of County initiatives and projects for potential public-private partnerships and programs.
Analyzes economic data and trends to identify opportunities and challenges for the County’s economic development.
Works with the Communications department to develop and maintain County marketing materials, department website, quarterly business newsletters, business related surveys, presentations, and campaigns to showcase the county’s advantages to attract businesses.
Presents for the County at conferences, trade shows, and industry events to promote development opportunities.
Cultivates good working relationships with the Georgia Department of Economic Development, county staff, educational institutions, civic groups, private citizens and business owners in Forsyth County.
Reviews documents and reports prepared by consultants and staff to ensure accuracy, completeness, and appropriateness.
Keeps abreast of legislative developments which may impact economic development programs, policies and/or procedures and implements follow-up action.
Attends meetings with other divisions/departments and County administration to plan, recommend, and/or discuss upcoming projects and policies. Meets regularly with the County Manager to provide updated progress and activity reports regarding all active business projects.
Provides information and recommendations regarding operations and assists in making decisions related to municipal government; develops and implements goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and priorities.
Assists in the development of budget and capital recommendations for the division/department and administers approved funds; submits divisional/departmental purchases and payables.
Coordinates and assists other divisions/departments as needed regarding County projects that require interdepartmental cooperation and problem-solving.
Prepares and presents presentations or proposals to Executive Leadership and/or Board of Commissioners as required.
Assists in the preparation of documents related to economic development transactions including, but not limited to, easements, conveyances, notes, deeds of trust, grant deeds, rights of entry, licenses, permits, reconveyances and agreements. Monitors contracts and agreements relating to economic development or property management activities which involve payments or financial calculations.
Analyzes economic data and prepares long-term business and financial forecasts in coordination with other County departments including Finance, Administration, Engineering, Building & Licensing, Planning & Development, and Water & Sewer.
Uses the various software tools for information gathering, report building, and other needed applications for economic development such as placer.ai, zencity, nearmap, GIS tools, etc.
Works with the Planning & Development leaders as necessary regarding business redevelopment, variances, site plans, rezoning, etc.
Responds to citizen, business, and/or other division/department inquiries concerning topics or questions related to Economic Development.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in economics, urban planning, public administration, business administration, construction management, or a related field.; supplemented by five (5) years previous experience and/or training involving economic development, urban planning or a related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.
