Steuben County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Job Description

As Executive Director, he/she plans and supervises all activities of the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation under the policy direction of the Board of Directors. The Executive Director is responsible for leading active efforts to attract, expand, enhance and retain business and commerce in Steuben County and oversees the work of Steuben County Economic Development Corporation, with an emphasis on maintaining close relationships with the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, private and public stakeholders, existing and potential businesses. In addition, the Executive Director assists the Board in establishing organizational goals and objectives, oversees financial responsibilities and formulates plans, policies, and programs to attain those goals and objectives. Responsibilities  Directs the activities of all staff including delegating authority, assigning and reviewing work, providing guidance, direction, and assistance, evaluating performance and making hiring and terminating decisions on staff.  Responsible for staff adherence to published policies and procedures.  Develops employee job capabilities and encourages employee advancement in the organization through continuing education and job expansion.  Informs and engages public and private stakeholders of economic development activities and successes through effective, consistent, and frequent dialogue.  Encourages public and private stakeholder engagement when considering tactical approaches to executing organizational objectives.  Coordinates programs and personnel activities with external stakeholders, and with local community, state and federal agencies.  Maintains the image in the community by representing Steuben County Economic Development Corporation in written and oral presentations including primary responsibility for all media contacts.  Represents the Steuben County EDC on community, regional, state, and national associations and organizations on issues of mutual concern. Coordinates with various agencies to assure Steuben County’s best interest is being served.  Executes the Board of Directors mission, goals and strategies as well as special projects as appropriate.  Develops new plans and programs to increase the organization’s ability to enhance job creation and retention in Steuben County EDC.  Coordinates annual business expansion, retention and recruitment efforts and responds to opportunities and is accountable for associated metrics.  Analyze the feasibility of proposed projects including financial and economic impact analysis. Research and compile demographic and economic data in response to inquiries from prospective businesses  Prepare development proposals to private development companies and businesses.  Coordinate with various businesses, agencies, community organizations, and incorporated communities and County departments to conduct presentations and site tours for the purposes of identifying, attracting and promoting the County to new businesses and industries.  Work closely with regional economic development organizations, workforce providers, educational institutions, and the business community in promoting the incorporated communities and County.  Directs the Steuben County EDC finance programs, including writing and or participating in the development of grant applications.  Works with the Executive Board in preparing and recommending the annual budget, analyzing future needs, estimating resource requirements and making determinations as to appropriate allocation of resources for consideration and approval of the Board of Directors.  Prepares or approves all reports, applications, proposals and any other significant written presentations.  Develops sources of revenue and controls costs consistent with resources and organizational goals and objectives.  Facilitates the activities of the Board of Directors by recommending meeting agenda items, prepares and/or reviews all staff recommendations presented and advises and assists in setting and evaluating overall organizational goals.  Other special assignments designated by the board of directors.

Qualifications  Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required; degree in economic development, urban planning, economics, marketing, business, or a related discipline preferred.  Five years experience in economic development, job and investment attraction or substantial experience within business and industry or as a marketing professional.  Certification as an economic development professional (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council is highly preferred.  Proficient knowledge in business planning and promotion, market analysis, relevant municipal legislation and financial management.  Understanding of the changing dynamics of business and what is required to attract business investments to a community.  Ability to gather large amounts of data, analyze, evaluate and disseminate in a succinct and effective manner. Demonstrated reporting, data analysis and research skills.  Strong written and verbal communication skills; the ability to build and sustain relationships with targeted industry executives, site selectors, and industrial real estate professionals.  Ability to present accurate work with a strong attention to detail in a high pressure, fast-paced environment while being held accountable for overall results.  Creative and strategic-thinking abilities.  Strong organizational skills and the ability to coordinate multiple projects.  Professional attitude and the ability to maintain confidentiality.  Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member. Additional Duties Additional duties and responsibilities may be added to this job description at any time. The job description does not state or imply that these are the only activities to be performed by the employee(s) holding this position. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related responsibilities as requested by their supervisor.