What are the responsibilities and job description for the Economic Development Specialist position at Midland Development Corporation?
JOB TITLE: Economic Development Specialist
REPORTS TO: MDC Executive Director
About MDC:
The Midland Development Corporation (MDC), created in January 2002, is the economic development organization for Midland, Texas. The MDC offers incentives to qualified new and existing employers that create jobs for the community. Midland voters made these incentives possible when they approved a quarter-cent increase in the local sales tax rate, with additional revenues earmarked to promote economic development and diversification. A seven-member board appointed by the Midland City Council governs the MDC.
Position Summary:
The Economic Development Specialist will work with the MDC staff to accelerate Midland's economic growth by promoting Midland, working with site selectors, community stakeholders, and corporate entities to secure new jobs and capital investment in Midland. This role requires travel and engagement to attract new investment, create jobs, and support the overall economic development strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Work with MDC staff members to manage and develop business prospects, manage logistics for trade shows and conferences, manage logistics for site selector visits and familiarization trips, and assist with marketing at trade shows and conferences.
- Represent the organization at trade shows, conferences, and industry events.
- Develop, implement, and execute a direct targeted industry recruitment program; generate projects through lead development; assist in marketing business parks and properties in Midland
- Create and execute itineraries for site selector visits, familiarization trips, and MDC events.
- Assist with submittals responding to state and national RFIs.
- Maintain a comprehensive database of existing businesses for prospect recruitment.
- Maintain a comprehensive database of active prospects and ongoing projects.
- Participate as needed in activities and events with regional and state stakeholders and organizations.
- Perform oversight tasks associated with the maintenance of MDC’s sites and facilities as needed.
- This role requires approximately 10% of time traveling to trade shows and other events to support business recruitment efforts.
- Perform other job responsibilities as assigned.
Competencies:
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills
- Demonstrated emotional intelligence and interpersonal ability in a professional setting
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
- Knowledge of Salesforce or similar CRM software
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline
Licenses:
- Current driver’s license