Economic Development Director

Economic Development Director

City of Wilmer, Texas

Department: Administration

Status: Full-Time | Exempt

Position Summary

The Economic Development Director plans, directs, manages, and coordinates the City of Wilmer’s economic development initiatives to attract, retain, and expand business and investment within the community. The position works closely with the City Administrator, City Council, the Wilmer Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), and regional partners to implement strategic initiatives that promote economic growth, strengthen the tax base, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The Director serves as the primary liaison between the City, developers, businesses, investors, and economic development partners while guiding development prospects through City processes and facilitating commercial and industrial development opportunities.

Organizational Relationships

• Reports directly to the City Administrator

• Works closely with the Wilmer Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Board and City Council

• Collaborates with internal departments, including planning, public works, and finance

• Serves as liaison to regional and state economic development organizations, real estate professionals, and business leaders

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Leadership

• Develop, implement, and manage the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan.

• Identify and pursue opportunities for commercial, industrial, retail, logistics, and mixed-use development that align with the City’s long-term vision.

• Provide economic analysis and professional recommendations to the City Administrator, City Council, and WEDC Board.

• Assist with long-range planning initiatives, including updates to the City’s Comprehensive Plan and development strategies.

Business Recruitment, Retention & Expansion

• Lead proactive efforts to recruit new businesses and industries to Wilmer.

• Develop and implement Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) programs to support existing local businesses.

• Market and promote Wilmer as a competitive location for business development.

• Develop marketing materials, prospect packages, and presentations for use with developers and site selectors.

Development Facilitation & Project Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for developers, brokers, site selectors, and business prospects.

• Guide development projects through City processes including zoning, permitting, and development review.

• Evaluate proposed projects for economic impact, feasibility, and alignment with City goals.

• Coordinate with City departments to ensure efficient review and implementation of development projects.

Incentives, Agreements & Policy Administration

• Develop and negotiate economic development agreements, incentive packages, and public-private partnerships.

• Conduct economic impact analyses and cost-benefit evaluations.

• Ensure compliance with applicable Texas economic development laws and local policies.

• Monitor performance agreements and report outcomes to City leadership.

Economic Development Corporation Administration

• Coordinate activities and provide administrative support to the Wilmer Economic Development Corporation (WEDC).

• Prepare agendas, reports, and presentations for WEDC Board meetings.

• Assist in the preparation and administration of the WEDC budget and economic development programs.

• Monitor economic development expenditures and ensure compliance with approved budgets.

Community and Regional Engagement

• Serve as the City’s representative to regional economic development organizations and partnerships.

• Maintain strong relationships with property owners, developers, employers, and community stakeholders.

• Represent the City of Wilmer at conferences, regional meetings, and industry events.

• Foster partnerships with educational institutions and workforce development organizations.

Research, Reporting & Data Management

• Maintain current data on demographics, market trends, workforce, available sites, and economic indicators.

• Prepare reports, briefing materials, and presentations for City Council, boards, and stakeholders.

• Oversee economic development marketing platforms, including websites and development opportunity listings.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of municipal economic development programs and Texas incentive tools.

• Understanding of commercial and industrial real estate development.

• Ability to negotiate complex development agreements and public-private partnerships.

• Ability to analyze development proposals, pro formas, and economic impacts.

• Strong project management and organizational skills.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities.

• Ability to build strategic partnerships with elected officials, developers, and business leaders.

• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-growing community environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, Marketing, or a related field.

• Minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience in economic development, municipal government, planning, or development services.

• Experience coordinating economic development programs and development projects.

• Valid Texas driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• CEcD (Certified Economic Developer) or PCED (Professional Community and Economic Developer) certification.

• Experience working with an Economic Development Corporation.

• Experience with commercial or industrial development and incentive negotiations.

• Supervisory or administrative leadership experience.

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in a professional office environment with occasional travel for meetings, conferences, and site visits. The position may require attendance at evening meetings, City Council meetings, and community events.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The City of Wilmer is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status.