Executive Mgr. of Business/Economic Development

The following statements describe the principal functions of the job and its scope of responsibility but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work requirements.  Individuals may perform other duties as assigned.

• Promotes economic development for the County.
• Assembles and oversee the annual budget.
• Identifies and solicits interest of targeted businesses best suited to locate or expand a facility in Highlands County.
• Assists in marketing and leveraging Highlands County assets to entice prospective businesses to locate in Highlands County.
• Conducts economic development project management; determines and analyzes location criteria for business prospects; responds to information requests; partners with local and regional economic development organizations; prepares formal presentations for business prospects; plans, coordinates, and guides company representatives on site and community tours.
• Solves complex issues in a creative and collaborative manner, effectively leverages interdepartmental and external partners to serve prospects, consultants, and previously satisfied clients.
• Research business climate issues and conducts analysis for project proposals affecting the targeted industries.
• Develops and maintains relevant relationships with local and regional economic development agencies, workforce and labor, stakeholders, and other key government agencies.
• Maintains and develops data on sector specific businesses, growth and opportunities, while directing long and short-term planning and other studies and reports. Performs contract and grant management. 
• Analyzes economic information such as reviewing financial statements, marketing studies, economic studies, plans and specifications.
• Assists in the recruitment of new businesses.
• Works with local existing businesses to develop innovative ideas that will assist in business retention and expansion.
• Research, identifies, and implements grant opportunities that support economic and business development initiative.
• Responds to requests for information for economic and business development opportunities.
• Works with County staff to produce and provide all necessary data and maps needed to support economic and business development initiatives within the County.
• Assists in preparing the quarterly newsletter outlining the on-going economic development and business activities, successes, and future plans and goals of the organization.
• Completes employee performance evaluations, disciplinary, administrative, and personnel documentation as needed.
• Follows consistently the Boards policies and procedures.
• Maintains a professional and safe unit and work area adhering to established safety policies and the image desire for the organization.
• Responds productively to change and performs all other tasks as directed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Disaster Essential. 

THE HIGHLANDS COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Does not Discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, religious belief, color, national origin, disability/handicap, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics or any other legally protected group/class. We are proud to be a drug free workplace. Screening tests for illegal drug use may be required as a condition of employment