Economic Development Specialist

The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) is seeking an Economic Development Specialist who is energized by relationships, curious about business growth, and motivated by helping companies thrive right here in our region. This role is equal parts connector, project manager, and problem-solver, working directly with local employers, partners, and prospects to support expansion, attraction, and job creation. You’ll be out in the community, at the table with decision-makers, and behind the scenes moving projects forward. If you enjoy building trust, juggling multiple initiatives, and doing work that has a tangible impact on the region’s economy, this role was built for you.

Economic Development Specialist

The employment policy of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce provides equal opportunity to all persons. We support a diverse and inclusive work environment where employees are respected, treated fairly, and given equal opportunities to perform to their fullest potential. We believe it is only with a diverse and inclusive workplace that the organization can perform at its best.

JOB INFORMATION

REPORTS TO:                                   Vice President of Business Expansion & Attraction

CLASSIFICATION                             Full Time

FLSA STATUS                                   Exempt

EEO CATEGORY                               Professional

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS               Regular (25%-50%)

DATE PREPARED                             1/2026

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Vice President of Business Expansion & Attraction, the Economic Development Specialist will be responsible for proactive outreach to targeted industry businesses that have significant potential to create and retain economic-based jobs and investments in the Greater Rockford area. The Economic Development Specialist will build and maintain relationships with targeted industry companies and support their unique needs with various services and local and state programs. Primary activities include business visits, program management, trade organization meetings, community meetings, phone calls, and face-to-face meetings. In addition to managing a portfolio of existing businesses, the Specialist will also be responsible for overseeing collaborative business recruitment projects and proactive outreach to decision makers, influencers, and prospective companies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

·       Assist in promoting programs and services to local, target industry businesses to identify new expansion projects.

·       Schedule, plan and conduct business check-in visits within target industries to generate job creating projects, opportunities for workforce development, and to support the growth needs of local business.

·       Work closely with our public partners to manage the financial incentives process for eligible projects.

·       Engage with economic development partners and stakeholders to maintain up-to-date inventory of eligible development sites, resources, incentives, and programs.

·       Build and maintain a target list of companies within specific industries using GrowthZone enterprise software.

·       Manage expansion and recruitment projects from concept to completion.

·       Serve as a regional subject matter expert on specific targeted industry sectors.

·       Maintain accurate contact database and project management via GrowthZone to support enterprise-wide communication and accountability and to capture organizational metrics.

·       Serve on strategic task forces and ad hoc committees, as needed.

·       Collaborate with marketing and public relations teams to build the region’s reputation and promote its assets to local businesses while also targeting industries and geographies outside of the area.

·       Collaborate with other GRCC departments to attain the organization’s performance metrics.

·       Perform other duties as assigned. 

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

·       Bachelor’s degree in business, Economics, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or related field.

·       One to three years of experience in economic development, business development, public-sector support, commercial real estate, or related field.

·       Basic understanding of economic development practices.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS and SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

·       None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made.

• Light physical effort; exertion of up to 10 lbs. of force occasionally.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Regular travel to GRCC events, member companies, and development sites.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

·       Strong presence and interpersonal relationship skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders.

·       Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an ability to express ideas clearly, concisely, and effectively in small group and large presentation settings.

·       Exemplary meeting management and facilitation skills.

·       Experience developing and making sales presentations, providing prospect client services, and simultaneously managing multiple projects.

·       Ability to work under pressure and within tight deadlines.

·       Excellent organizational skills, analytical, self-starter, team player.

·       Strong servant leadership and customer service focus.

·       Proficiency in computer and technical skills including Microsoft Office Suite, CRM/enterprise software (preferably GrowthZone), and web-based applications.

·       Proficiency and diligence in data entry and metrics tracking.

·       Valid driver’s license, current insurance, and clean driving record.

·       Ability to interpret and adhere to policies and procedures in accordance with company practices.

·       Regular attendance.

·       Personal values that align with GRCC’s values: We work as a team. We are connectors, convenors, and collaborators. We make business personal. We are forward thinking. We strive for operational excellence. We are energized by good work, good laughter, and good coffee.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Salary range $55,000-$62,000, commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement match, short & long term disability, corporate giving stipend, copious amounts of PTO, a really good ice machine)
• Hybrid work environment
• Professional development opportunities
• A supportive, team-based culture driven by excellence and energized by laughter and coffee

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed, and job responsibilities may change at any time due to business needs. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and skills required for the position. Please discuss requests for reasonable accommodations with the hiring manager.

Apply today to join a forward-thinking team shaping the future of the Rockford Region. Send your resume and cover letter to cpusateri@rockfordchamber.com or apply directly on LinkedIn.