Description

OUR MISSION

St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) is the independent economic development agency serving the City of St. Louis. Missouri. It is an action-oriented organization that exists to empower, develop and transform St. Louis through a vibrant, just, and growing economy where all people can thrive.OUR VISION

SLDC is a place-based, people-centric catalyst for growth in St. Louis. Our core values guide everything we do. As implementors of a robust set of projects, programs, and policies, SLDC responsibly deploys a myriad of initiatives designed to reverse disproportionate disparities in disinvested areas, infuses capital into the community, and creatively collaborates with our neighbors, both commercial and residential.SLDC is the only economic development organization trusted to serve the best interests of all St. Louisans. 

The long-term initiatives implemented by SLDC will propel St. Louis forward for decades to come. As we evolve, redefine, and reimagine economic development for the next generation, SLDC expects to achieve significant social and financial returns. The result is expanding the tax base, improving the economic, health, and educational outcomes for every existing resident of St. Louis, and attracting new residents. 

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Development Analyst plays a pivotal role in advancing the St. Louis Development Corporation's (SLDC) mission by managing agency-assisted development projects from inception to completion. This role is integral in ensuring that all development efforts adhere to federal, state, and local regulations, thereby contributing to the city's growth and development sustainably and responsibly. This limited-term position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the sustainable development and empowerment of communities within St. Louis, requiring a dedicated professional who is keen to make a significant impact.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in project management, an ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, and a commitment to fostering community development through strategic urban planning initiatives. Responsibilities of the Development Analyst encompass a broad range of activities that require a foundational understanding of real estate law, financial underwriting analytics, and construction management practices. The candidate must possess excellent organizational and computer skills, with the capability to manage a complex and diverse workload effectively. The Development Analyst is expected to work under general supervision, enjoying a degree of autonomy in work sequences within the framework of established procedures and policies.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE

• Serve as the primary point of contact to articulate development procedures and regulations to stakeholders, utilizing various communication methods (phone, email, in-person) to ensure clarity and comprehension.
• Actively engage in the evaluation of potential development sites, conducting thorough site visits to assess conditions and address any concerns that arise, facilitating smooth progression towards development.
• Methodically review all submitted application materials, including organizational documentation, budget proposals, and evidence of community support, to ascertain the completeness and viability of development proposals.
• Critically analyze applications for agency assistance, determining eligibility and assessing project feasibility to guide decision-making and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with various City agencies in the predevelopment phase, acting as a vital link between the development team and municipal entities to streamline project advancement.
• Develop and organize comprehensive briefing packages and project summaries for evaluation by Selection Committees and oversight Boards, highlighting key project facets and recommendations.
• Liaise with the Legal Department to obtain and review necessary project legal documents, ensuring accuracy and consistency across project materials.
• Facilitate the closing process for SLDC loans, working in tandem with the LRA, title companies, and lenders to ensure seamless transaction completions.
• Oversee and approve payment requests and change orders, coordinating with relevant City agencies to reconcile any discrepancies in contract amendments.
• Provide timely and accurate project updates to all stakeholders, including developers, contractors, and community groups, maintaining transparent and effective communication channels.
• Maintain meticulous records of SLDC project files, drafting updates, and summary reports as needed to support project transparency and accountability.
• Conduct comprehensive project closeouts, reconciling financial expenditures and preparing documentation for audit and monitoring purposes, ensuring project completion aligns with SLDC standards and fiscal accountability.
• Participate in ongoing education and training opportunities to stay abreast of industry trends, regulations, and best practices, enhancing professional competence and project outcomes.
• Lead pre-construction meetings, ensuring all project participants are aligned and informed on development objectives, timelines, and expectations.

OTHER DUTIES

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of duties or responsibilities that are required for this job. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice, or as assigned.

Qualifications

WHAT QUALIFIES YOU 

This role is suited for a detail-oriented, proactive professional who is keen on making a tangible impact in the realm of development and city planning. This role demands a professional capable of navigating the complexities of development projects, from legal documentation to financial assessments and site evaluations. The successful candidate will exhibit a blend of technical knowledge, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills to advance the SLDC's mission of sustainable and inclusive development.

• Knowledge and Experience: Basic understanding of real estate law and related documentation, alongside proficiency in financial underwriting and construction management. Experience in these areas enables the incumbent to effectively oversee development projects from conception to completion.
• Analytical Skills: The candidate should be able to perform mid-level data analysis, including auditing, deducing, assessing, concluding, and appraising. They should also be adept at using data to inform decisions, develop alternatives, and evaluate project feasibility.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to communicate clearly and persuasively with a range of stakeholders. The role requires the capacity to explain complex procedures, summarize regulations, and present project updates in a manner that is accessible and engaging.
• Leadership and Coordination: Demonstrated ability to lead, influence, and coordinate a diverse workload under general supervision. The candidate must possess the initiative to develop work sequences within established guidelines, with a knack for problem-solving and adaptability.
• Technical Proficiency: Competence in using essential technology and tools, including computers for data analysis and project management software. The role also involves the operation of standard office and possibly field equipment.
• Mathematical and Verbal Aptitude: Strong mathematical skills for handling financial estimates, budget analysis, and other quantitative tasks. Verbal aptitude is crucial for drafting reports, interpreting technical documents, and engaging in effective dialogue with stakeholders.
• Functional and Situational Reasoning: The ability to apply principles of influence, such as managing and directing, alongside the exercise of independent judgment in developing approaches to problem resolution. The candidate should excel in situations that require evaluation of information against both measurable and subjective criteria.
• Commitment to Continuous Learning: Willingness to attend continuing education to stay current with industry trends, regulations, and best practices, ensuring the highest standards of professional competence

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field; MBA or Advanced degree preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in residential or commercial development

POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

This a full-time, exempt position with health benefits and paid time off. While our traditional work hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, SLDC follows a standard work schedule of 40 hours per week for full-time employees. Evening and weekend work is required as job duties demand.

SLDC is committed to building a team with a wide range of experiences and perspectives. SLDC strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ candidates, and does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, or any statuses protected by law.