Economic Development Executive Director

Job Description

Summary: The City of Williston is seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to fill the role of Executive Director of Economic Development. As a key leader, the Executive Director will play a crucial role in shaping and implementing economic development strategies that contribute to the overall prosperity and vitality of the community.

Supervision Received: City Administrator

Supervision Exercised: Development and Economic Vitality Coordinator, Economic Development Finance Grant and Loan Manager, and Communications and Marketing Outreach Coordinator

FLSA Status:Exempt

Essential Job Functions:

• Develop and execute comprehensive economic development plans aligned with the city's vision, focusing on job creation, business expansion, and community enhancement.

• Identify and pursue opportunities to attract new businesses to Williston while nurturing relationships with existing businesses to promote retention and expansion.

• Build partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations to create a collaborative environment that fosters economic growth.

• Develop, oversee, and implement comprehensive financial strategies, including the creation and execution of the annual budget.

• Work closely with relevant stakeholders to identify infrastructure needs and advocate for improvements that support economic development initiatives.

• Actively promote Williston as an attractive investment destination, showcasing its unique strengths, resources, and incentives to potential investors.

• Collaborate with educational institutions and workforce development agencies to ensure a skilled and adaptable workforce that meets the needs of businesses in the region.

• Advocate for policies at the local, state, and federal levels that support economic development and enhance the business climate in Williston.

• Utilize data and economic indicators to assess trends, measure the impact of economic development initiatives, and make informed decisions.

• Perform related work as required.

• Perform all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies and procedures.

Note: The functions and duties listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

• Strong interpersonal skills, as well as organizational, problem-solving, and research skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; public speaking experience.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, employees, and the public.

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal economic development programs and incentives. Familiarity with the economic landscape of North Dakota and the energy sector is advantageous.

Education: Bachelor's degree in Economic Development, Business Administration, or Public Administration, from an accredited college or university or closely related field OR any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience: Proven experience in economic development, business attraction, and strategic planning.Minimum of five(5) years of leadership and people management experience at an economic development organization or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirement: Valid North Dakota driver's license; must be bondable and insurable under the City's motor vehicle insurance policy.

Equipment Used in Job Performance: Computer; telephone or copy machine.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk; sit; talk or hear; use hands and fingers, handle, feel or operate objects, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works indoors but sometimes travels the city and state for reasons related to the job. The noise level in the work environment is moderate.

To be granted veterans preference, the required forms, letters or certificates must be submitted with the application.

The City of Williston does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.

Any materials, files, documents, electronic tools, or other items collected or created by an employee in connection with their employment remain the property of the City. Additionally, all material created, transmitted/sent, received, deleted, downloaded, or stored using electronic tools are and remain the property of the City. Employees have no expectation of privacy when using City property.

The City of Williston is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.