Master’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Marketing, Economics or a related program and six (6) years management/leadership experience; or higher-level education and experience equivalent to 12 years in fields using their knowledge, skills and abilities, including five (5) years of higher-level program management or administrator experience. The preferred candidate will have diverse experience and knowledge of economic development focused on capital investments, workforce development/job creation, incentives, entrepreneurial and business startups, business accelerators, public- private partnerships, business administration and economics. This position is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the City Manager and is not considered part of the merit service as defined in City Code, section 2-75.
Are you a visionary leader passionate about driving economic growth and development?
We are seeking a Director of Economic Development to spearhead our City’s strategic economic initiatives. In this pivotal role, you’ll lead a dynamic team and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including City agencies, private developers, and industry leaders, to shape and implement transformative economic strategies. You’ll have the chance to influence local business growth, support entrepreneurial ventures, and foster strong community partnerships. If you’re ready to make a significant impact and help guide our City’s future, we invite you to apply for this exciting leadership opportunity.
The Director of Economic Development responsibilities include:
- Develop economic development strategies, plans and programs to support growth of the local economy
- Facilitate a results driven culture aligning established priorities with performance measures
- Facilitate business startups and entrepreneurs by assisting with the identification of appropriate resources
- Negotiate with industry stakeholders to encourage business attraction and retention in the City
- Monitor legislation, regulations, and opportunities
- Represent City’s position to various state, federal and local agencies to establish collaborative partnerships promulgating the interests of the City
- Identify economic opportunities and provide oversight of associated grant proposals and applications, contracts and other necessary documents
- Oversee department budget, monitor the expenditures and forecast projections
- Actively foster continual engagement and seek consensus with community partners
- Constructs and maintains collaborative relationships with stakeholders to establish short and long term goals for community and economic development
The City offers a generous benefits package, which includes health, dental and life insurance, retirement and savings plans, holidays and Paid Time Off.
The City of Virginia Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer.