Economic Development Manager

Economic Development Manager

The City of Westminster is seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to serve as its next Economic Development Manager.

The ideal candidate brings strong redevelopment experience and excellent leadership skills. The incoming Economic Development Manager will have strong knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration and municipal government management, including budget development and administration, public agency contract administration, administrative practices, public relations, and evaluation techniques. Knowledge of and the ability to interpret, apply, and explain pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations as well as excellent verbal and written communication skills are required. The Economic Development Manager must have the ability to attract and bring in new businesses as well as bring economic development projects to fruition. Candidates who are familiar with the political and economic climate of Orange County are highly preferred.

As a representative of the City, the incoming Economic Development Manager must have techniques for building positive working relationships with governmental agencies as well as diverse community groups, businesses, and organizations. A good communicator who is culturally sensitive will do well in this role. The ability to analyze and evaluate projects, programs, policies, procedures, and operational needs as well as collect, evaluate, interpret, and present complex information and data is required. The Economic Development Manager must analyze complex problems, identify alternative solutions, and recommend conclusions. Participation in various complex organizational studies and analyses are essential to this role. Candidates who can "read a room" and are familiar with the principles and practices of Community Development are highly preferred. The Economic Development Manager must keep up to date with present and future economic climates and trends.

Under general direction from the City Manager, the Economic Development Manager manages all aspects of the development and implementation of Economic Development programs and activities for the City, emphasizing the stimulation of business retention, expansion, attraction and workforce development while enhancing economic base. The Economic Development Manager serves as a coordinator for major Economic Development projects as well as develops and conducts outreach efforts with a wide variety of community / regional organizations and agencies. The ability to form partnerships, develop strategic plans, and coordinate events is essential for this role. As a representative of the City, the Economic Development Manager participates in outside community groups, professional groups, and committees as well as meets and negotiates with outside agencies and the public. This position may exercise technical and project supervision over City staff in support of City Manager directives. The ability to identify and pursue development opportunities as well as coordinate and facilitate the implementation of development projects is crucial to this position. The Economic Development Manager will work closely with the Community Development Department and be heavily involved in the redevelopment of Westminster Mall. Other duties include but are not limited to :

• Facilitating the recruitment of businesses to the city.
• Interacting with developers interested in the city market and working collaboratively with businesses to ensure both parties' interests are met.
• Performing comprehensive program analysis and feasibility studies in the area of economic development including conclusions and recommendations.
• Preparing reports detailing the studies then presenting recommendations to the City Council and the community.
• Assisting new and expanding businesses in site selection, acquisition and facility construction, and through the City's planning and building processes.
• Maintaining up-to-date local and regional market data including economic, statistical, financial, population, growth, demographic and other information.
• Analyzing the effects of current and pending legislation on City programs and operations and making recommendations, developing responses and legislative proposals, and keeping City staff apprised of pending and enacted legislation.
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Qualified candidates typically possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public administration, business administration, or a closely related field, and have four (4) years of increasingly responsible public administration experience which has included significant economic development, administrative, analytical and fiscal management responsibilities. A master's degree is preferred. Possession of a valid California Driver's License is required upon hire.