President/Executive Director

Job Posting/Advertisement Statement:

The Lee's Summit Economic Development Council (“LSEDC”) seeks an innovative and strategic executive professional to serve as the President of the organization. This individual will lead the organization through a transformative phase of revitalization and growth. The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader, capable of building strong relationships within the community and fostering a collaborative environment to drive economic development initiatives. This role requires a hands-on approach to rebuilding the organization’s structure, enhancing stakeholder engagement, fostering a positive and synergistic relationship with the City of Lee’s Summit and its elected and appointed officials, and promoting Lee's Summit as a prime destination for business investment.

Position Overview:

The President of the LSEDC is the principal staff person for the organization, responsible for the management and administration of the strategic plan and objectives as identified from time to time by the Board of Directors. The President reports to the Board of Directors, and performs complex, professional work related to enhancement and growth of economic development in the community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advancement of Economic Ecosystem through Attraction and Retention: Engage in active approaches to promoting Lee’s Summit and cultivating interest in developing businesses, with particular focus on recruitment and retention of quality businesses in keeping with the City of Lee’s Summit’s strategic plan for Economic Development; foster public-private partnerships to enhance economic development activities.
• Strategic Leadership: In close collaboration with the Board of Directors, develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan that aligns with the goals of the LSEDC and the broader community, focusing on economic growth, business retention and attraction, with concentration dedicated to the eight common success factors of highly functioning EDO’s (see “Best Practices for Economic Development Organizations” study, Thomas P. Miller and Associates, May 2023.)
• Organizational Development and Oversight: Oversee the reorganization of the LSEDC, establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and operational processes to create and sustain a high-functioning team dedicated to economic development; hire, compensate and terminate employees; establish job descriptions, duties and responsibilities of staff as deemed necessary and approved through budgetary process.
• Community Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with local government, businesses, and community organizations to foster collaboration and drive collective economic initiatives; oversee activities and events dedicated to furthering organization’s strategic objectives (including, but not limited to investor events;) participate in local, regional, state and national organizations relevant to the development of economic development.
• Stakeholder Communication and Advocacy: Serve as the primary spokesperson for the LSEDC, effectively communicating the organization’s vision, goals, and successes to stakeholders, the media, and the public; engage with stakeholders to identify areas of need and support which can be provided through the organization; proactively identify potential opportunities to assist businesses grow and prosper in the community, including site location identification, navigation of local government approvals, identification of available incentives, and other related assistance; provide efficient and timely support, response, and follow-up to economic development prospects, proposals and requests for assistance.
• Program Development: Identify, design, and implement programs and services that support local businesses, attract new investments, and enhance workforce development; organize and maintain data and information relevant to business prospects; establish effective marketing and communication strategies to advance the organization’s strategic objectives.
• Financial Management: In cooperation with the Board of Directors, the Treasurer and the Finance Committee, oversee the organization’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability through effective resource allocation, public and private investment, and identification of other opportunities for financial support (i.e. grant writing, collaborative support, etc.); work in conjunction with Treasurer and Finance Committee in preparation of annual budget to be presented to the Board of Directors for approval.
• Performance Metrics: Establish and monitor key performance indicators to assess the impact of economic development activities, ensuring accurate and relevant information is retained and readily available; regularly report progress to the Board and community stakeholders.
• Advocacy: Represent the interests of the LSEDC in local, regional, and state economic development discussions, advocating for policies that support business growth and community prosperity.
• Accountability: Provide oversight and support to the organization and Board of Directors to ensure compliance with applicable contractual and legal obligations; serve as primary staff liaison to Board of Directors; coordinate meetings and events of the Board of Directors, including preparation of meeting materials, keeping of records, books, documents, communications, and meetings; maintain thorough knowledge of industry, regulatory and legislative developments affecting local economic development initiatives, services, functions and programs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economic Development, Public Administration, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in economic development, community engagement, or a related field, with a proven track record of leadership.
• Strong understanding of economic development principles, practices, and strategies.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, public relations and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and mobilize diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in organizational restructuring and team building is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage budgets and financial resources effectively.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal economic development policies and programs.

Compensation:

The President will receive a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, including health and dental insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings opportunities.

The Lee's Summit Economic Development Council is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from diverse candidates. Join us in making a significant impact on the economic landscape of Lee's Summit!

The above job description is intended to serve as a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities, and is not a comprehensive inventory of all duties and responsibilities assigned or required of the individual serving in the stated position.