Economic Development Manager

Organization: City of Flagstaff

City: Flagstaff

Location: Arizona

Date Posted: May 19, 2026

Country: United States of America

Primary Category: Economic Development

Type of Position: Full Time

Description & Details

Job Description Summary

The City of Flagstaff is seeking a strategic and collaborative professional to lead and support Economic Development initiatives that advance community and business growth. This position is responsible for implementing economic development strategies, overseeing business attraction and retention efforts, supporting workforce development initiatives, and building strong partnerships with local, regional, and state stakeholders.

The role provides leadership for Economic Development programs, staff, budgeting, and strategic planning while working closely with City leadership, businesses, and community partners to support Council priorities and promote Flagstaff’s long-term economic vitality.

Position Responsibilities

• Provides excellent customer service to both internal and external customers.
• Responsible for understanding the varied elements of the City’s Economic Development programs, including principles and implementation of business attraction strategies, retention and expansion tools and efforts, workforce development resources and programs.
• Establishes priorities of work within the Economic Development program.
• Develops, implements, and manages the Economic Development budget, strategic planning, and policies and procedures.
• Coordinates efforts with surrounding jurisdictions related to economic development.
• Establishes measures to improve methods, use of equipment and software, changes in operations, working conditions, quality of work, and any necessary expansion to increase the efficiency of the program.
• Has overall supervisory responsibility for the Economic Development staff and recommends employee hires, promotions, transfers, discharges, and disciplinary measures to the Community Investment Director.
• Ensures that all Federal, State, and Local laws/regulations are being met within assigned area of responsibility.
• Keeps the Community Investment Director advised of Economic Development matters through written and oral reports.
• Attends conferences, conventions, and other professional meetings to remain current on Economic Development matters. Speaks before civic and professional groups on Economic Development matters.
• Meets with lawmakers at the state level as necessary to influence policy development.
• Oversees the business attraction and business retention work programs, targeting identified sectors.
• Coordinates tradeshow and conference attendance, updated website coordination, pursues lead generation/business prospects for new and expanding companies through client meetings, site selector visits, and more while communicating information and providing progress to the Community Investment Director, City Management, Mayor and Council.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

To review the full job description for this position, please click here.

Qualifications

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in business management, economic development/redevelopment, master planning, architecture, or a related field.
• Five years of experience directly related to municipal policies concerning economic development, redevelopment, business retention and expansion, business attraction, workforce development and planning.
• Two years of supervisory experience.
• Valid driver’s license
• Or any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the above Minimum Requirements.
  
  

Desired Experience And Training

• Master’s degree in business management, economic development/redevelopment, master planning, architecture, fine arts, or a related field.
• Relevant economic development certifications
• Five years of supervisory experience or more.
  
  

Other Requirements

• Must have or consistently work towards obtaining IEDC Certified Economic Developers (CEcD) certification until achieved.
• Must possess, or obtain upon employment, a valid Arizona driver’s license (Class D).
• Evening and weekend work, as needed.
• Some travel is required.
• Regular attendance is an essential function of this job to ensure continuity.
  
  

Supplemental Information

Current Compensation And Benefits

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and positive work environment. We offer competitive pay, outstanding benefits, and the chance to work with a committed team making a difference in our community. Located in the beautiful mountain town of Flagstaff, AZ, you’ll enjoy a unique quality of life with outdoor recreation, stunning scenery and a welcoming community.

Our total compensation package includes best-in-class benefits and an annual salary based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience. Plus:

• Arizona State Retirement System with 100% Match
• Employees are members of Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) with a mandatory contribution rate of 12%
• 457 Deferred Compensation Options
• Up to 4% Annual Pay for Performance Increase
• Group Insurance including Health, Dental and Vision coverage
• Flexible & Health Savings Accounts
• 13 Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Personal Leave, Paid Parental Leave, Bereavement, Jury Duty
• Life Insurance, AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability and Voluntary Life Insurance
• First-Time Homebuyer Assistance
• Qualified Public Student Loan Forgiveness Employer
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Clinic, Telehealth, Wellness Program & Incentives
• Tobacco Cessation Program
• Employer Assistance Program
• Recognition including Workiversary, Wonderful Outstanding Worker (WOW), On-the-Spot, 7k Award, and City Manager’s Excellence Awards
• Employee Discounts: Mountain Line Bus Eco Pass, Aquaplex, and Recreation Centers
  
  

Please note that Compensation and Benefits are subject to change based on future policy change, budgetary impact, and Council changes.

The City of Flagstaff is looking for team members who are passionate about community, innovation, and quality of life. Come be a part of this cool community and see why the City of Flagstaff is a great place to work!

How to Apply / Contact

Apply for the Economic Development Manager position