Economic Development Specialist

Works under the direction of the Economic Development Director. This position is responsible for advancing economic initiatives by providing essential administrative support to the department and managing marketing initiatives that promote the County’s economic assets. This position will also be responsible for marketing and tourism campaigns highlighting County events, businesses, and attractions.

• Provides administrative support to the Deputy County Administrator and to the Director of Economic Development by assisting with calendar management and other administrative tasks.
• Assists with economic development activities such as business retention and expansion (BRE), small business assistance, and tourism initiatives.
• Assists with planning and execution of events for Economic Development.
• Collects, organizes, and analyzes data in accordance with the implementation of the county’s Economic Development Plan.
• Receives and coordinates responses to business requests and inquiries.

• Responsible for tracking real estate changes in Costar and update IVS system.
• Assists in supporting the Economic Development Authority through various administrative tasks, including assisting with agenda and minutes creation.
• Assists in planning and promoting small business and entrepreneurship development programs through partnerships with Goochland Chamber of Commerce, Small Business Development Center, and other partner organizations.
• Manages marketing efforts including updating departmental websites, social media channels, hard-copy materials, and media outlets. 
• Collaborates with the Director to develop materials that attract new business and programs to retain existing businesses.
• Updates and maintains the department’s CRM database of existing Goochland County businesses.
• Assists in curating and publishing content for Goochland Economic Development and Tourism Newsletter.
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

• Knowledge in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe, and a willingness to learn other programs.  
• Knowledge of standard office procedures and practices. 
• Skill in the use of computers and software applications related to the essential functions of the job.
• Preferred but not required - basic knowledge of economic development processes and practices in the areas of marketing, tourism, business retention, or local government experience working in Economic or Community Development.
• Preferred by not required - General knowledge of marketing and marketing material development to include visual aids, brochures, reports and multi-media presentations.
• Skill in effective communication, both verbally and in writing.
• Skill in providing customer service.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to think creatively and innovatively.
• Ability to manage time effectively to achieve specific project objectives in a deadline-driven environment. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects in various stages. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other personnel and the public.

• High School Diploma.
• Two (2) years of related experience in administrative assistance, marketing, economic development, tourism, building development process, real estate, community planning, or a related field or equivalent training, education, and/or experience.  
• Valid State of Virginia Driver’s License with a driving record that meets HR Policy requirements.
• Criminal background check and drug screen required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Work is light work, which requires exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects. Tasks may require the ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods of time. Additionally, the following physical abilities may be required: bending, reaching, handling, and grasping.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed in a relatively safe, and secure work environment.

Salary : $45,000 - $75,000