JOB TITLE: Economic Development Coordinator

DEPARTMENT: Economic Development

FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT

PAY GRADE: I (Range: $59,468 to $82,403)

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

Under direction of the County Administrator, this position will collaborate with multiple program partners such as, but not limited to community and business leaders, city and county governmental officials, financial institutions, chambers of commerce, local economic development entities, state and regional partnerships to attract new industry and enhance the business climate and quality of life for workforce recruitment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Create entrepreneurship, business incubation & small business development efforts.
• Work with local school districts, universities, & community leaders to create entrepreneurship education programs & to enhance the local entrepreneurship ecosystem.
• Maintain a business climate conducive to the expansion and retention of existing companies.
• Facilitate innovative programs to strengthen the quality and quantity of the local workforce.
• Target business recruitment efforts & negotiate with potential business/industry prospects.
• Work with state and local officials.
• Grant Writing, grant administration and reporting.
• Prepare applications and supporting documentation for Kansas Business Incentive Programs (i.e., Tax Credits, Training Grants, Business Loans, Tax Exemptions, IRBs, etc.)
• Work with industries and market research & e-marketing communications tools.
• Participate on community committees and local organizational activities as appropriate and assigned.
• Maintain, upgrade, and create statistical reports and data as appropriate and necessary.
• Advocate on behalf of local business interest at the local & state level
• Encourage rural development through expansion of tourism activities and initiatives in agritourism.
• Implement quality of life initiatives and efforts to enhance community appeal.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Persuasive oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent computer skills.
• Skilled negotiator and ability to build consensus.
• Ability to formulate and execute strategic and long-range plans.
• Ability to leverage substantial resources, energy & partnerships.
• Ability to form meaningful business relationships with a variety of constituents.
• Working knowledge of local, state, and federal funding resources.
• Ability to handle conflicting priorities/work schedules to meet challenging deadlines.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, marketing research, finance, real estate, urban/regional planning, or related field. A minimum of 2 years of experience in planning, implementation and administration of economic development programs, preferably with an emphasis in entrepreneurship & small business development or an equivalent combination of education and experience, master’s degree preferred.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Full-time residency inside Cowley County within 6 months of employment is a requirement. A valid Kansas Class C driver’s license and an acceptable driving record throughout employment are required.