Director of Economic Development

Position Description: Director of Economic Development

Organization: Indian River County Chamber of Commerce

Location: Vero Beach, FL

Reports to:  President of the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Summary

The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is seeking an experienced and dynamic individual to fill the role of Director of Economic Development. This role is pivotal in driving economic growth across Indian River County, overseeing business retention, expansion, and recruitment efforts, as well as entrepreneurial development and market research. The successful candidate will implement strategies aimed at attracting new businesses while supporting existing ones, contributing to job creation and an enhanced tax base. This is a full-time salaried position.

The Chamber is recognized as the official Economic Development Organization (EDO) by the Florida Department of Commerce, operating under the direction of the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Economic Planning: Lead and implement economic development strategies, focusing on business retention, expansion, and attraction, particularly in targeted industries.
• Partnership Development: Foster and maintain relationships with public and private stakeholders, including the Economic Leadership Alliance, local government, and other organizations, to drive economic development initiatives.
• Project Management: Oversee projects that support business attraction, retention, and redevelopment, ensuring alignment with the county's economic goals.
• Budgeting and Reporting: Develop and manage the annual budget for the Economic Development Division, and prepare an annual report for the county.
• Data Analysis: Collect, interpret, and analyze market and community data to identify trends and issues, aiding in the development of strategic initiatives.
• Site Selection Support: Facilitate site selection activities for businesses considering relocation or expansion into Indian River County, providing detailed proposals, site tours, and ongoing communication.
• Community Engagement: Represent the Chamber at meetings, events, and conferences to promote economic development efforts and build partnerships.
• Program Implementation: Manage key Chamber events such as the Industry Appreciation Awards and the Manufacturing Bootcamp program.

Professional Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in economic development, urban planning, public/business administration, economics, marketing, finance, or a related field strongly preferred.  A Master’s Degree and Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation are highly desirable.
• Experience: At least 5 years of experience in economic development, community development, or redevelopment, preferably within Florida or the Southeast U.S.
• Skills and Knowledge:
• Strong understanding of economic development programs, marketing analysis, contract development, and local government operations.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage projects, develop strategic plans, and work within budgetary constraints.
• Florida Driver's License required.

Additional Considerations

• Experience in fields such as community development, project management, finance, commercial real estate, or entrepreneurship may be considered on a year-for-year basis.

This position is a key leadership role within the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, contributing directly to the economic vitality of the region. The selected candidate will be a proactive, energetic leader with a commitment to fostering economic growth in Indian River County.

Salary Range: $80,000 – $95,000 plus generous benefit package

In-person presence in Indian River County is required; remote work is not practical for this position.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer and it is our policy not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee based on age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion or veteran status.