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The City of Commerce City, Colorado, is seeking its next Economic Development Director. This role provides leadership and vision to the City by developing and implementing business retention, expansion, and attraction programs that support a financially viable, sustainable, and balanced quality community. The Director strategically aligns the division with the City's vision and goals, offering guidance that ensures a cohesive and integrated approach. In addition to setting the strategic direction, the Director assumes responsibility for supervising four economic development professionals, crafting divisional budgets, approving expenditures, and establishing operational procedures.
 
Reporting to the Director of Strategic Partnerships in the Office of Economic Opportunity and Cultural Affairs, the Economic Development Director effectively leads and evaluates the economic vitality and expansion efforts of Commerce City. The Director addresses the concerns of the existing business community and develops, oversees, and participates in business retention and growth programs. This position manages the Commerce City Business Resource Center and develops unique, targeted, and effective strategies to attract prospective businesses, developers, site selectors, and brokers. The Economic Development Director leads the implementation of proactive and outbound economic development activities that influence the result or lead to new capital investment, job creation, and business attraction or retention. The Director intentionally develops and maintains relationships with state, regional, and national economic development entities, community partners, lenders, retail and commercial property owners, developers, and business owners.
 
The Economic Development Director develops and implements the Economic Development and Marketing Strategic Plans, and the economic development elements of the Comprehensive Plan and the citywide Strategic Plan. The Director provides professional leadership and high-level support to the City Manager, Deputy City Manager, Assistant City Managers, Director of Strategic Partnerships, and the Urban Renewal Authority, and effectively develops relationships with City Council members in support of economic development initiatives. The Economic Development Director maintains effective working relationships with colleagues across the organization and proactively identifies opportunities for collaboration. The Director develops and delivers presentations to City Council and others as needed and participates in professional groups and committees in support of an inclusive economy that cultivates, attracts, and retains business.
 
The Economic Development Director is a strategic, forward-thinking leader excited by the opportunity to influence the continued economic growth of Commerce City. The successful candidate understands the big picture, clearly articulates the vision, and collaborates in shaping the future while remaining grounded and realistic in what is possible. A person of exceptional character and known for their ability to execute, the Director offers confidence grounded in experience and is willing to make creative, innovative, and bold decisions that support a thriving economy.
How to ApplyCommerce City is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to our success, and we are committed to creating a supportive and welcoming work environment for all of our employees. We encourage you to apply if you are looking for an exciting opportunity to lead a team of dedicated professionals and make a difference in your community.
 
Contribute to the vibrant growth and development of Commerce City as we strive to provide exceptional services and foster a thriving community. Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position is open until filled with a first review of applications beginning March 18, 2024.Compensation and Benefits

The annual salary range for the Economic Development Director is $115,834 - $196,919, with an anticipated hiring range of $140,000 - $165,000, depending on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City offers an extensive benefits package, including an 8% 401A match and up to 2% deferred comp match. We strive to provide each employee with a work environment that encourages professional development, growth, and overall success. Learn more here. 

Qualifications 
At least six years of progressively responsible economic development experience with at least four years of leadership and management of a team is required. Prior experience with change and evolution is essential, and direct experience in a growing, diverse community is highly desired. Knowledge of zoning requirements and processes, engineering, transportation, and park requirements, impact fees, land uses, and public and private finance is required. CEcD certification is ideal but not required.
 
A bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Public Administration, or a related field is required. A Master of Economics, Business, Public Administration, or a related field is strongly preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered. The successful candidate must possess a valid driver’s license.
QuestionsFor more information or questions regarding the City of Commerce City or the Economic Development Director position, please contact Heather Gantz at hgantz@raftelis.com. We also encourage you to visit the dedicated website for the Economic Development Director Recruitment.