Assistant Director of Economic Development

Economic Development Director

Under the direction of the City Manager's Office, this position is responsible for the strategic execution and leadership to implement an existing plan for the continued development of the economic goals of the City. This position will oversee and manage the day-to-day programs supporting the City's economic development strategic plan and ensure successful implementation of the community's vision plan.

Manage the creation of web-based, print and social media marketing campaigns for both promotional and informational purposes supporting department mission and strategic plan. Manage staff in developing and executing measurable goals, reporting standards and benchmarks aligned with the department mission and objectives. Assist with oversight of various TIRZ, PID and MMD districts and Boards. Assume responsibility of project management after successful attraction or expansion efforts. Interaction with various City departments on collaboration of development projects to ensure timely permitting and commencement of construction or expansion. Represent the City at appropriate civic, cultural, charitable, business, and community activities as well as serve on boards, commissions, committees, and organizations related to critical goals and interests of the City. Assist in establishing economic development programs and practices that lead to private investment in City and result in job creation, expanded tax base, creative and niche development, recreation and entertainment venues, and other quality developments. Assist in implementing a strategic and proactive recruitment strategy for the promotion of the City to business and industry by contacting national and international businesses, site selectors, brokers, developers, and consultants and represent the City at meetings, making presentations, attending trade shows and development of proposals and promotional materials. Provide oversight and manage staff on the Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) program in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and interaction with local businesses to maintain a positive relationship and maintain open communications to resolve business needs and promote expansion opportunities in the City. Participate in the negotiations of comprehensive development agreements between the City and the private sector, evaluate fiscal impacts, communicate decisions, and present reports and agreements to City Manager and City Council. Ensure the City is successful in efforts related to developing and maintaining strong working relationships with the Chamber of Commerce, developers, corporate leaders, business owners, public school officials, other regional and state economic development agencies and citizens. Provide ongoing support to the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) to advance their mission and goals. Perform other duties as assigned. Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential function of this position, as is the ability to create and maintain professional, harmonious working relationships with others.

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, Public Administration or related field (Master's Degree preferred) and a proven leader with a minimum of five years progressively responsible experience in Economic Development along with Marketing and Real Estate, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Professional certification, such as Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), or Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) and experience in real estate preferred. Candidates possessing or working towards certifications will be given preference. Comprehensive knowledge of general management principles. Must be able to work well in an environment with multiple interruptions. Must be a self-starter requiring little direction to accomplish tasks with a high level of optimism, enthusiasm, and "can-do" attitude. Must have the ability to be creative while being a strategic problem solver who is able to develop ideas and implement them through teamwork and cooperation. Skill in working effectively with senior level management in a variety of public and private organizations; skill in dealing with elected officials, business associates and other governmental entities; comprehensive knowledge of financial analysis; long range planning; state, regional and local business incentives / finance related tools and marketing principles. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Valid driver's license required. Must have and maintain a good driving record in accordance with the driving standards established by the City of Rowlett. Must report all traffic citations to his / her departmental Director or his / her designee within two working days of receipt. 10% of time will consist of domestic travel. Mobility within an office and field environment. Significant off-site working meetings are as necessary. Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled office environment. Physical demands are sedentary in nature requiring little physical effort in working with light (up to 25 lbs.) materials.