Rural Economic Development Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state's leading economic development organization with a streamlined mission to grow and strengthen Arizona's economy.

The ACA uses a three-pronged approach to advance the overall economy : recruit, grow, create – recruit out-of-state companies to expand their operations in Arizona; work with existing companies to grow their business in Arizona and beyond; and partner with entrepreneurs and companies large and small to create new jobs and businesses in targeted industries.

ABOUT THE ROLE :

As part of the Rural Economic Development Team, the Specialist will develop and maintain a deep knowledge of the rural communities throughout Arizona, as well as ACA's business plan, projects and programs. Primarily focus areas include community outreach, rural employer relationship management, real estate site identification in rural areas, coordination with the Business Development Team on business expansion and attraction projects, and program administration. Program administration will include assistance with the Economic Strengths Program grant, the Rural Business Development Advisory Council (RBDAC), and other rural initiatives. This individual will serve as a primary contact for internal and external stakeholders who are searching for rural locations and resources.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Serve as project or program manager for key rural economic development initiatives.
• Represent the ACA throughout Arizona ensuring access to the ACA suite of resources and services.
• Develop and maintain relationships with community leaders, economic development partners, employers and other key stakeholders.
• Develop and deliver presentations to senior level leaders, elected officials and decision makers.
• Effectively administer the annual Economic Strengths Grant Program.
• Maintain and update account files and contacts within the CRM (Salesforce).
• Identify and research real estate opportunities suitable for business attraction or expansion opportunities
• Prepare both oral and written status updates that effectively communicate progress about specific programs and issues or opportunities in the rural communities that affect rural growth and development.
• Represent ACA at key events, council meetings, and other key stakeholder meetings.

COMPETENCY, EDUCATIONAL, & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS :

HIGHLY PREFERRED SKILLS, ABILITIES & QUALIFICATIONS :