Economic Development Manager

The Economic Development Manager plays a key leadership role in creating a one-stop, top of class economic development recruitment and retention division for the city while driving economic growth within the region. The position and department works to actively recruit and retain business through aggressive and creative outreach that positions the City of Bloomington nationwide as a premier destination for private investment while developing incentives and other programs that foster necessary growth. The Economic Development Manager works closely with government officials, business leaders, community stakeholders, and private-sector partners to create a conducive environment for economic development.

This list may not include all tasks and/or knowledge which may be expected of the employee, nor does it cover all specific duties which may be required. Other duties may be assigned.

• Works with the Department Director and Economic Development Advocate to create a one stop, white glove service for entities wanting to develop, expand or grow in the City of Bloomington.
• Serves as the single point of contact for any catalytic projects that involve City incentives from concept to approval to completion.
• Leads the financial analysis of development and incentive proposals from the private sector to assure community growth while protecting municipal interests.
• Establishes and maintains a creative and thorough yet expeditious incentive request review process.
• Develops and executes active business, retail, and industrial recruitment and retention programs.
• Actively recruits new businesses through the creation of innovative recruitment tools, attendance at conference and other events and regular meetings with site selectors, brokers and retail/commercial entities.
• Develops a marketing strategy and maintains the City’s website to assure it functions easily and effectively.
• Prepares developer real estate packages including RFP’s that provide site information, demographics, surveys, photos, environmental information and more to use in attracting developers.
• Establishes City economic development programs and practices that lead to private sector projects resulting in capital investment, job creation, expanded tax base, creative and niche development, recreation and entertainment venues and other quality developments.
• Acts as a City economic development strategist in partnership with the Director and develops short and long-term economic and community development plans as well as gathers information and preparation of studies, reports and recommendations to achieve such goals.
• Prepares an annual action plan identifying resources and prepares draft budget for the division.
• Prepares all documents for the annual Joint Review Board and Illinois State Comptroller for the City’s various TIF districts.
• Monitors and analyzes economic trends and identifies opportunities for growth in key sectors (e.g., manufacturing, technology, tourism, retail, etc.).
• Provides oversight for TIF districts and development agreements, including the tracking and distribution of incentive payments.
• Provides information to, including making presentations to City Council, boards, commissions, civic groups, businesses and individuals regarding economic development issues, programs, services and plans.

Education/Experience:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Urban Planning/Real Estate, Public Administration, Business Administration, Finance, or a closely related field.
• At least 5 years of progressively responsible, related experience.
• Master’s degree in related field or professional certification in any of the preferred qualifications list may each be substituted for one (1) year of professional experience.
• Direct experience developing close working relationships with governmental groups at the local, state and federal level, and constituents/stakeholders which might include elected officials, board of directors, and other business and community support organizations.

Certificates and Licenses:

Required:

• Driver’s License

Preferred:

Certifications (any of the following):

• DFCP from CDFA
• CECD from IEDA
• EDFP from NDC