Economic Development Director

4 weeks ago

Kalamazoo, United States Southwest Michigan First Full time

Southwest Michigan First is seeking a highly motivated Economic Development Director to serve as a key leader on our Economic Development Team that focuses primarily on our business retention, expansion, and attraction programs and services. The ideal candidate will be dedicated to enhancing business vitality, creating jobs, and encouraging investment. Key responsibilities include managing business relationships, facilitating expansion initiatives, and executing strategies that bolster the region.


The primary responsibilities of this job:


  • Lead and manage business retention and expansion efforts by identifying and addressing the needs of existing businesses.
  • Lead and manage company growth projects, ensuring effective management and successful implementation.
  • Collaborate with the Economic Development Team to develop and execute economic development strategies and plans for the region.
  • Manage and coordinate business incentives, grants, and other business assistance programs.
  • Assist companies and developers in navigating state and local government processes and structures.
  • Attend public meetings, deliver presentations, and represent businesses and developers effectively.
  • Aid in leveraging state and federal funding for economic development, including researching and preparing grant applications.
  • Coordinate local community stakeholders (elected officials, city/township officials, local partners and representatives, college officials) to address opportunities identified by a project and local economic opportunities.
  • Maintain familiarity with state and federal resources available to support business growth and expansion.
  • Monitor and maintain current information on available commercial, business, and residential properties within the community, including both public and private sites.
  • Attend and actively participate in board, committee, and community meetings as assigned.
  • Oversee and coordinate new projects initiated by Southwest Michigan First, ensuring successful planning, execution, and completion.
  • Collaborate with businesses to provide insights and responses regarding data and trends related to the regional economy.
  • Respond to Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Requests for Information (RFIs), and other inquiries as needed.
  • Perform other duties as required to support the Economic Development Team and further regional economic development goals.


Qualifications and Skills:


  • Bachelor's degree in economic development, construction management, urban planning, public or business administration, or a related field also is required.
  • Have at least three to five years of related business retention and economic development experience.
  • Possess knowledge of tax increment financing, brownfield redevelopment and community development tools.
  • Knowledge of the development process including Zoning Ordinances, Building Codes, and City Codes related to development and have the ability to interpret planning and zoning programs to the general public.
  • Knowledge of workforce development and related resources.
  • Highly developed skills in communications and customer relations; negotiating and facilitating; public speaking and community involvement.
  • Knowledge of newly emerging perspectives and trends related to the environmental and economic impact of urban planning.
  • Ability to identify, coordinate, and resolve a wide variety of interests in the development of land use policy.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, citizens, and elected officials.
  • Ability to handle sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy.
  • Ability to work independently and demonstrate sounds judgement with a track record of project management.
  • Take direction and redirection in a positive manner.
  • Proficient in CRM systems and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Able to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
  • Reliable transportation is a must.
  • Commit to putting excellence into all work.


Why Southwest Michigan First?


  • Competitive Insurance Benefits Package: Our comprehensive insurance package ensures you and your family are covered with health and dental plans that meet your needs.
  • Employer-Paid Life Insurance: We prioritize your well-being by providing life insurance coverage at no cost to you, offering peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
  • Employer-Paid HSA (Health Savings Account): Take advantage of our HSA to save on medical expenses with pre-tax dollars, enhancing your financial wellness.
  • Employer Contribution Retirement Plan (100% Vested Immediately): Plan for your future with confidence. Our retirement plan includes employer contributions that are fully vested from day one, ensuring your long-term financial security.
  • Wellness Reimbursement: We support your commitment to well-being with a reimbursement program for wellness-related expenses, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
  • 17 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a generous holiday schedule, allowing you to celebrate and recharge throughout the year.
  • Half Day Fridays (Memorial Day to Labor Day): Embrace work-life balance with half-day Fridays during the summer months, giving you extra time to relax and enjoy personal pursuits.
  • Stocked Kitchen: Fuel your day with our stocked kitchen, providing snacks and beverages to keep you refreshed and productive.


Interested? Apply now All applications require:


  • Cover Letter
  • Resume


About Southwest Michigan First

Southwest Michigan First is an organization of privately funded economic development advisors who act as the catalyst for economic success in Southwest Michigan. Founded in 1999 on the principle that the greatest force for change is a job, the organization works across all industries throughout the seven counties making up the Southwest Michigan region.

Southwest Michigan First provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Southwest Michigan First complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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