Economic Development Specialist

Under direction of the Economic Development Director, the purpose of the position is to promote Kingsport as a viable option for the location of business/industry and to aid existing businesses to maintain and expand in Kingsport. The position is part of the Economic Development Department.

• Plans strategies to attract new businesses and encourage expansion and retention of existing business to promote a stronger economic base;

• Identifies and targets businesses and industries to the City;

• Promotes Kingsport as a viable option for the location of business/industry by contacting regional, national and international businesses;

• Works closely the Kingsport Economic Development Board;

• Encourages and assists existing businesses to maintain operation and expand within the City;

• Represents the City at meetings, presentations, and  through  development  of proposals and promotional materials;

• Assists in the maintenance of and materials for web page(s) related to economic development and the economic development activities within the City;

• Works  with  City  officials  and  management  to  ensure  coordinated  economic  development activities;

• Coordinates city economic development activities with, NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership, the Chamber of Commerce, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, other city departments, other governmental agencies, private enterprise, civic groups and the general public;

•  May coordinate activities with other local agencies addressing workforce and training issues;

•  Assists in the development of policies and procedures; and evaluates program effectiveness; 

•  Performs related duties as needed or assigned.

• Thorough knowledge of effective principles, practices, methods, and techniques of economic development;

• Thorough knowledge of business concerns, needs, practices, and markets and relocation needs and initiatives;

• Knowledge of the techniques and principals of public relations, external community image building, and marketing;

• Knowledge of local government practices, specifically planning, zoning, and the permitting process;

• Knowledge of State and federal agencies and their respective roles in economic development;

• Knowledge of private sector financing and incentive strategies;

• Ability to travel, meet with company representatives and discuss knowledgeably issues and business needs related to their relocation or expansion of operations;

• Knowledge and proficiency in the use of computers, Microsoft Office Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint;

• Ability to prepare and present oral and written reports and recommendations following necessary research and investigation;

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City and State officials and private sector executives and business representatives , 

• Ability to stand in for Economic Development Director as needed; and

• Excellent work history and attendance record.

Bachelor's degree, preferably with advanced degree, in Business, Public Administration, Planning, or closely related area and three years of relevant experience; experience with a local government is preferred; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which would provide the following knowledge, skills, and abilities.