Economic Development Officer

Commitment to Citizen Service

Service encompasses all aspects of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indian’s governmental operations. Every employee shares the responsibility to provide exemplary service, dignity, and respect to all Tribal Citizens, the Tribal Council, and staff members. To this end, all employees have an obligation to identify and report any service problems, issues, or concerns and through designated channels, initiate, recommend, and actively participate in solutions.

Position Summary: The Economic Development Officer (EDO) is responsible for leading strategic planning, financial management, business development, and operational oversight of tribal economic enterprises. This key role drives the expansion and diversification of the tribe’s economic base while aligning with cultural values and long-term community benefit. The EDO will work closely with the Economic Development Board, tribal administration, and local enterprise managers to execute sustainable and profitable ventures.

Essential Functions:

1. Financial Management

• Develop and maintain comprehensive financial reporting systems, including budgeting, forecasting, and audit compliance.
• Strengthen banking and lending relationships to support business operations and future investments.
• Identify, apply for, and manage business development and capital grants.
• Oversee cash flow management and payroll systems for tribal enterprises.

2. Operations Oversight

• Monitor the operational performance of tribal businesses.
• Ensure compliance with tribal, state, and federal regulations.
• Supervise vendor relations, inventory management, and facility development.
• Establish and improve internal controls, SOPs, and operational efficiencies.

3. Strategic Planning & Investment Development

• Lead the identification and evaluation of new investment and business opportunities.
• Conduct due diligence, feasibility studies, and ROI analyses for proposed ventures.
• Develop and maintain a pipeline of viable opportunities aligned with the tribe’s strategic vision.
• Present business proposals and recommendations to the Economic Development Board.

4. Marketing and Business Growth

• Collaborate with board and leadership on branding, marketing campaigns, and customer engagement strategies.
• Develop and implement growth plans for existing enterprises, including pricing, product mix, and partnerships.
• Support sales strategies, customer retention efforts, and public relations initiatives.

5. Team and Talent Development

• Support hiring, workforce development, and leadership training within tribal enterprises.
• Provide mentoring to enterprise managers and staff to improve performance and foster professional growth.
• Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and culturally respectful work environment.

6. Governance & Reporting

• Provide regular reports and strategic updates to the Economic Development Board and Tribal Council.
• Assist in drafting and enforcing business and governance policies for enterprise operations.
• Maintain transparency and accountability through strong data management and communication.

Non-Essential Functions:

• Perform other related functions as assigned.

Equipment:

• General office environment. Lighting and temperature are adequate. Work is generally performed in an office environment, with standard office equipment available.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Finance, Public Administration, Economic Development, Marketing, or a closely related field (MBA, CPA, or other advanced credentials preferred).
• Minimum of five (5) years of direct economic development experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of business management experience, including leadership, operations oversight, or enterprise management.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing business operations and growth initiatives.
• Proficiency in financial analysis and planning tools.
• Experience in tribal economic development or a demonstrated understanding of tribal sovereignty and governance is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with industries such as retail, cannabis, hospitality, or convenience store operations is desirable.

Indian Preference

• Pokagon Band Preference Code applies.

Physical Requirements:

• Work is sedentary in nature and will require sitting, however standing and walking will be necessary.
• Frequently required to use hands and fingers to operate equipment.

Work environment:

• General office environment. Lighting and temperature are adequate. Work is generally performed in an office environment, with standard office equipment available.