Job Posting: Director of Economic Development

Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance (DAEDA)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Director of Economic Development carries out the organization’s program involvement strategies, serves as the lead staff for associated programs, and conducts retention visits with area businesses to assess current opportunities and challenges and inform them of applicable DAEDA business services.

PRIMARY POSITION OBJECTIVES:

• Develop strategic plans, including an operating budget, based on the economic needs of the area surrounding Dickinson County
• Create bylaws/governance committee to establish principles for operation
• Establish working committees to meet strategic goals for Workforce Development, Infrastructure Improvement, Marketing and Branding
• Design and manage the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance website to attract talent, potential developers, and showcase offerings of the Dickinson County area
• Collaborate with local employers, schools, social organizations and local government agency partners to support economic development needs
• Provides business assistance to area companies
• Conducts research and analyzes relevant data in support of the DAEDA involvement in business and economic development efforts

SPECIFIC WORK RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct business retention visits and associated follow up efforts with existing companies in support of their program, incentive and financial needs
• Respect confidential client, business, and project information
• Understand and monitor local, state and federal legislation and regulations relating to business and economic development
• Represent DAEDA at a variety of events
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with a variety of public and private sector individuals, businesses and organizations

SKILLS:

• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, innovatively, and creatively using sound business judgment and quantitative skills
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment while prioritizing and managing multiple responsibilities
• Proven analytical and problem solving skills
• An understanding of the Northern Michigan economic, cultural, and political environment
• Understanding of business development and business regulations
• Understanding of business finance and budgeting
• High degree of personal accountability and a determined drive for results
• Adept at working with diverse groups and organizations
• Excellent written and oral communication skills including experience making presentations in public forums