Economic Development and Development Services Director
The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a visionary and results-driven leader to serve as its next Economic Development and Development Service Director. This executive-level position plays a critical role in shaping the City's growth, guiding strategic development initiatives, and fostering partnerships that enhance economic vitality and community well-being.The Director serves as a key advisor to the City Manager and City Council and collaborates with internal departments, external stakeholders, developers, and community partners to drive impactful development outcomes. We welcome all who meet the requirements of this position and are eager to help shape the future growth and development of our thriving community.About our OrganizationAt the City of Cedar Rapids, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect the diverse backgrounds of our community. This position plays a critical role in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving city. We value the breadth of experience candidates bring beyond the technical requirements of the role. Candidates whose experience aligns with the qualifications outlined are encouraged to apply. A combination of of experience, skills, and a commitment to our core values is essential to building a stronger community, now and for the next generation.About our CommunityNestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!About the PositionProvides executive-level leadership for the City's Economic Development, Development Services, and strategic partnership initiatives. Leads efforts to advance business growth, redevelopment, and investment aligned with City Council priorities. Oversees Development Services and Building services functions ensuring coordination between land use, infrastructure, and economic development strategies. Serves as a key advisor to the City Manager on economic development policy, strategy, and major development opportunities.The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesLeads development and implementation of the City's economic development strategy aligned with City Council prioritiesLeads business attraction, retention, expansion, and redevelopment initiativesAdvises the City Manager and executive leadership on economic trends, development opportunities, and related policyServes as lead negotiator for development agreements, incentives, and public-private partnershipsCultivates and maintains relationships with private sector, regional, and governmental partners and represents the City in external initiativesCoordinates with internal departments to facilitate development projects and resolve barriers to investmentProvides executive oversight of planning, zoning, permitting, and development review functions and ensures alignment with economic development strategyLeads continuous improvement of development services processes to enhance efficiency and customer serviceOversees evaluation of development proposals, incentive strategies, and funding opportunities to maximize community return on investmentProvides executive oversight of assigned departments, including performance management, budgeting, and long-range planningCoordinates cross-departmental initiatives related to development and infrastructure prioritiesAdvises the City Manager and City Council on economic development strategy and represents the City locally, regionally, and nationallyPerforms related work as requiredRequired Education and ExperienceBachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Economic Development, Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning or related field and nine years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, community development, public administration, or a related field, including at leave five years in a senior leadership or executive role OR,An equivalent combination of education and experience (i.e. one year of relevant full-time experience may substitute for one year of education)Extensive organizational leadership and staff management experienceStrong, verbal, and interpersonal communication skillsProficiency with Microsoft OfficeAbility to work collaboratively with diverse populationsRequired Licenses or Certifications* NoneDesired QualificationsMaster's degree in public administration, Political Science, or related fieldCertified Economic Developer certification or equivalent executive certification preferredExperience in municipal or public sector developmentExperience negotiating complex development agreements and public-private partnershipsWork Schedule* Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm