Description
SUMMARY:
The Assistant to the Director of Economic Development provides high-level professional, analytical, and program management support to the Director in advancing the City’s economic development initiatives. This position plays a key role in coordinating complex projects, supporting Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Board activities, and assisting in the administration of economic development programs, incentives, and redevelopment efforts.
This position serves as a central coordinator for departmental initiatives, ensuring alignment between strategic priorities and operational execution. Responsibilities include financial analysis, report preparation, project oversight, and interdepartmental coordination to support business development, redevelopment, and investment activities.
The role requires strong collaboration with City departments, developers, business leaders, and regional partners to facilitate development activity and promote the City as a premier destination for investment and growth.
The ideal candidate will embody our core values of service, humility, innovation, neighborly, and excellence (SHINE).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Professional Support: Provides advanced professional support to the Director, including assisting with departmental planning, budget development, performance tracking, and strategic initiatives.
EDC Board Coordination & Governance: Serves as primary staff support for the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Board, including preparation of agendas, staff reports, financial analyses, and meeting materials. Ensures compliance with statutory requirements, maintains official records, and coordinates follow-up actions on Board directives.
Report Preparation & Financial Analysis: Prepares detailed reports, correspondence, and presentations related to economic development programs, incentive agreements, and redevelopment projects. Assists in evaluating financial feasibility, return on investment, and policy implications of proposed initiatives.
Project & Program Oversight: Coordinates and monitors economic development projects and programs, ensuring timelines, deliverables, and objectives are met. Provides oversight and guidance on program implementation while supporting staff responsible for day-to-day execution.
Incentives & Contract Administration: Assists in the development, tracking, and administration of economic development agreements, including incentives, performance measures, and compliance requirements. Coordinates with legal, finance, and other departments as needed.
Interdepartmental Coordination: Works closely with Planning, Engineering, Finance, Communications, and other departments to facilitate development activity, resolve issues, and ensure alignment with City priorities.
Business & Development Support (Strategic Level): Supports business retention, expansion, and recruitment efforts through high-level coordination, data analysis, and project facilitation. May participate in meetings with key stakeholders, developers, and businesses, focusing on complex or strategic projects.
Marketing & Communications Oversight: Assists in guiding economic development marketing initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and City branding. Provides input on messaging, materials, and campaigns rather than leading day-to-day content execution.
Policy & Procedure Development: Assists in developing and implementing policies, procedures, and program guidelines related to economic development activities. Identifies opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies.
Meeting & Event Attendance: Attends EDC Board meetings, City Council meetings, and other assigned meetings to support the Director and present information as needed. Assists with coordination of workshops, stakeholder meetings, and special events.
Public Relations & Issue Resolution: Responds to complex or sensitive inquiries from stakeholders, businesses, and the public. Assists in resolving issues requiring coordination across departments or involving economic development programs.
Additional Duties: Performs other related duties as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Economic Development & Public Administration Knowledge: Strong understanding of economic development principles, including business recruitment, retention, redevelopment, and public-private partnerships, as well as municipal operations.
Financial & Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze financial data, evaluate incentive agreements, and assess return on investment for economic development projects. Strong research and problem-solving capabilities.
Project Management & Coordination: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects, coordinate stakeholders, and ensure successful implementation of programs and initiatives.
Knowledge of Laws, Codes, and Regulations: Familiarity with federal, state, and local laws and programs related to economic development, municipal governance, and public finance.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare and present reports to boards, elected officials, and stakeholders.
Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn specialized economic development and project management software.
Organizational & Leadership Support Skills: Ability to operate with a high level of professionalism, discretion, and independent judgment while supporting executive-level leadership.
Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, political science, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in public administration or a related field is strongly preferred.
Experience: At least two (2) years of experience in a public administration, local government, or a related field. Prior experience in program management, supervision, or a similar role is highly desirable.
At least one (1) year of experience supervising or leading staff, preferably in a municipal or facilities-related environment, is preferred.
An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provide the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
