Director of Business Development & Real Estate

Position: Director of Business Development and Real Estate Management

Company Description:

The Tuscarawas Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to fostering economic growth in Tuscarawas County. By offering financial tools, economic development resources, and business information, the EDC supports commercial enterprises and builders within the community. As the manager of the Economic Development & Finance Alliance (EDFA) and the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) of Tuscarawas County, the EDC serves as the primary resource and contact for economic development in the region.

Summary:  

The Director of Business Development and Real Estate Management works closely with all members of the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC) team to identify, develop and implement a proactive business development program that includes business attraction activities that result in the creation and retention of jobs and increased tax base in Tuscarawas County. The position also comprehensively manages the real estate holdings and property operations of the TCEDC and the Economic Development and Finance Alliance (EDFA).

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to, developing and directing an effective program of direct outreach, communications, support services and technical problem solving to support business recruitment activities. and coordination of partner resources to bring business and economic development projects to fruition. This role requires robust project management to coordinate partner resources and seamlessly guide business and economic development projects from initial inquiry to final fruition.

Reporting:

The Director of Business Development reports to the TCEDC President / Executive Director.

Major Duties & Responsibilities:

Business Attraction & Project Management:

·       Serve as a lead project manager for key economic development initiatives, establishing timelines, managing budgets, coordinating cross-functional teams, and ensuring project deliverables are met on schedule.

·       Fill out RFP’s for project leads from Jobs Ohio and consultants. Responding to business development inquiries. Prepare and package general or specific information for clients as needed.

·       Perform direct presentation activities to companies, site selectors, real-estate professionals, industry press and other audiences. 

·       Work with partners to develop needed infrastructure for buildings and properties.

·       Leverage advanced technology skills to manage, secure, and optimize the TCEDC website and social media platforms, utilizing analytics to drive engagement.

·       Grant writing and tracking KPIs, outcomes, and outputs for multiple grants using structured data management.

Real Estate Management:

·       Manage the Job-Ohio Real Estate Inventory Management System for Tuscarawas County.

·       Manage the real estate assets of the EDFA, including lease administration, tenant relations, property management, and financial oversight of the properties.

·       Work with contractors to identify and resolve maintenance issues, ensuring all assets retain their value and appeal to prospective businesses.

·       Facilitate and manage annual compliance inspections across building, safety, security, and insurance standards.

Other Related Tasks:

·       Assist in implementing the organizational marketing strategy and preparation of a variety of marketing materials in support of business development

·       Assists in administering the TCEDC’s social media marketing and advertising, including strategy, content development, regular delivery and metrics reporting. 

·       Work with organization partners to remain knowledgeable about current development opportunities and marketing initiatives.

·       Develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with members of business and community groups, and various public and private organizations.

·       Coordinates seminars, webinars, meetings, conferences and other events as required.

·       Promote investment in the TCEDC with clients and in support of TCEDC’s fundraising efforts.  

·       Attend Board and staff meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

·       Project Management: Proven project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously, adhere to strict deadlines, and effectively allocate resources.

·       Information Technology: Above-average IT proficiency. Must possess strong capabilities in CRM administration, database management, website content management systems (CMS), and digital analytics. Capable of troubleshooting basic technical issues and seamlessly adopting new platforms. Experience utilizing AI tools for operational efficiency is highly desired.

·       Property Management: Solid understanding of property management and facility operations, including lease negotiation, vendor management, and tenant dispute resolution.

·       Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to make persuasive presentations and interact effectively with professionals at all levels.

·       Problem Solving & Analysis: Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team to analyze issues and exercise sound judgment in decision-making.

·       Professionalism & Ethics: Demonstrated commitment to excellence, integrity, ethical behavior, dependability, and maintaining a high degree of confidentiality and initiative.

·       Relationship Building: Proven ability to collaborate internally and externally, share resources, and remain receptive to feedback and continuous improvement.

·       Industry Commitment: Strong dedication to the field of economic development, including a proactive approach to continuing education and professional development.

·       Mobility & Travel: Valid driver’s license with verification of appropriate insurance coverage, reliable transportation, and the ability to travel both nationally and internationally for up to one week at a time.

·       Schedule Flexibility: Ability to work before and after standard business hours to accommodate meetings and host essential events.

Preferred Qualifications:

·       Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, urban planning, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).

·       Demonstrated experience in business or economic development.

·       Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

·       Background or training in project management.

·       Familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

Environment:

·       Often, there are a variety of other settings such as manufacturing facilities, construction sites, older retail buildings and/or other environments requiring the ability to be adaptive to changes in terrain, limited accessibility, etc. or tolerate unusual or unpleasant odors.

·       The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands:

·       Some standing, walking, sitting, stooping.

·       Some kneeling, crouching, balancing and bending/twisting.

·       Some lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling to a maximum of 25 pounds.

·       Sitting for long periods of time.

·       Fine motor skills.

·       Tolerance of noise and odors from various office machines.

·       Driving to various locations as required by meetings, appointments, etc.

Compensation:

Performance based salary and benefit package will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

The TCEDC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Process:

TCEDC will be accepting resumes until the position is filled. Resumes or questions about this position should be sent electronically Marla Akridge at makridge@tuscedc.com or by cell at 330-691-5355.