This is advanced professional and administrative, planning, organizing, and coordinating work of the Economic Development Department and related authorities. Work includes direct administrative support to the Department Director, direct engagement with potential investors, policy development, development of strategy, retention, management, and supervision of the daily operations of the department office, budget coordination and development, contract management, and preparation of various documents, presentations, and reports, as assigned. Work involves coordinating the efforts of diverse groups, from within and outside of City Government. Work is performed with considerable latitude for independent decision-making under the managerial direction of the Economic Development Director and is reviewed through conferences, reports, and an analysis of results obtained.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Duties

Operational effectiveness of the department by planning, organizing and prioritizing activities in alignment with departmental and City-wide strategies.
Oversight and efficient implementation of state enabled incentive programs including training, guiding, reporting and mentoring staff responsible for project and program management.
Consultant contracts associated with projects, planning, and policy studies, including drafting and administering requests for proposals, negotiation, and conformance with inter-agency agreements.

Responsibilities

Operational:
- Ensures successful implementation of the programs and compliance with all city policies, laws, rules, and regulations for all Boards the department manages.
  - Smartzone, Brownfield, Land Bank, Corridor Improvement Authorities, and Economic Development Corporation
- Directs efficient implementation of Grand Rapids-specific policies (i.e. Inclusion Plan, E, etc.) including training, guiding, reporting, and mentoring staff responsible for project and program management.
- Evaluates opportunities and identifies resources to pursue grants or partnerships that support strategic project outcomes.
Administrative:
- Guides staff in various budget preparation and approval tasks
- Approves invoices weekly or more often as necessary, ensuring compliance with laws and policies (i.e. is the expense legitimate, legal and approved, as necessary)
- Approves payroll
- Approves personnel forms, including sick use, training, travel authorization.
- Oversees budgetary administration
- Leads and manages internship program

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Required Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in public management, public administration, or a closely related field

--AND--

Five (5) years of experience in a field related to economic development, community development, planning, or related management experience, including two (2) years of supervisory experience

--OR--

Any equivalent combination of training and experience.

Required Licenses or Certifications

Possession of a valid Michigan driver's license.

Preferred Education

Master’s degree in public management, public administration, or a closely related field

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES
Knowledge of:

The following software programs:
- MinuteTraq
- Salesforce
- Assessing.net
- A360

The following laws, policies, and procedures:
- Act 381 of 1996
- Act 451 of 1994
- Act 146 of 2000
- Act 147 of 1997
- Act 328 of 1998
- Act 255 of 1978
- Act 198 of 1978
- Act 57 of 2018
- BRA LBRF Policy
- City Commission Policy 900-44
- City Commission Policy 900-63

Skill in:

Microsoft Office Suite

We Offer:

Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
Twelve Paid Holidays
Paid Vacation and Sick Time
Paid parking (if applicable)
Employee Home Ownership Incentive
Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
Paid Parental Leave
Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
Employee Discounts and Perks

Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

City of Grand Rapids

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Assistant Economic Development Director

Assistant Economic Development Director