Executive Director

The Coeur d’Alene Area Economic Development Corporation (CdA EDC) serves as the driving force behind economic growth in Kootenai County, Idaho—one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States. Representing Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, and surrounding communities, this nonprofit, board-led organization is focused on strengthening and diversifying the regional economy through business expansion, strategic recruitment, and strong public-private partnerships.Since 1987, CdA EDC has supported more than 125 company relocations and expansions, helped create over 7,198 jobs, and contributed to more than $722 million in capital investment. Today, the region is gaining national attention for its rapid growth and evolving economy, with strength across aerospace, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, and distribution industries. This momentum creates a unique opportunity for a relationship-driven leader to actively promote North Idaho, attract new business, and support the continued growth of existing industries.Beyond the business opportunity, North Idaho offers an exceptional quality of life—featuring four distinct seasons, abundant outdoor recreation, and a cost of living below national averages. Combined with strong regional collaboration, a business-friendly environment, and engaged community leadership, Kootenai County provides an ideal setting for a leader looking to make a meaningful and lasting impact. Executive DirectorLead the Future of Regional Economic GrowthOur organization is seeking a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead regional economic development efforts and strengthen partnerships that drive business growth, investment, and community vitality.This is an opportunity for a relationship-driven leader who is passionate about connecting business, government, and community partners to build a thriving regional economy.The Executive Director serves as the chief executive of the organization, working closely with the Board of Directors, member investors, municipal partners, and regional leaders to advance strategic initiatives that attract new employers, support existing businesses, and strengthen the region’s competitive advantage.With a small, collaborative team and strong support from an engaged Board of Directors, the Executive Director will play a critical role in shaping the region’s economic future.Key Responsibilities:Lead Regional Economic Strategy• Identify growth opportunities and supply-chain gaps to attract industries that complement existing employers. • Advance initiatives that support business recruitment, retention, and expansion. • Align regional partners around shared economic priorities.Build Powerful Partnerships• Cultivate strong relationships with business leaders, municipal partners, legislators, and educational institutions. • Leverage Board member networks and regional relationships to expand opportunities. • Establish strong communication rhythms across partners and stakeholders.Champion the Region• Serve as the primary spokesperson promoting the region’s strengths and opportunities. • Deliver compelling messaging and storytelling that inspires investment and engagement. • Lead development of a unified regional marketing strategy with municipal partners.Grow Investor Support• Attract and retain member investors who believe in the region’s economic future. • Engage business leaders and employers in meaningful collaboration.Lead and Modernize the Organization• Guide a small team and oversee daily operations. • Modernize processes to ensure responsiveness and operational efficiency. • Manage strategic initiatives while maintaining strong organizational performance.Ideal Candidate ProfileA relationship-driven leader who thrives at the intersection of business leadership, community engagement, and economic development.• Experience in business recruitment, economic development, or regional growth    initiatives • Exceptional relationship-building abilities across business, government, and community leaders • Strong communication skills and political awareness when working with public and private stakeholders • Sales and marketing capability to confidently promote regional opportunities • Strategic thinking paired with the ability to execute initiatives and deliver measurable results • A proactive and energetic leadership style with initiative and persistence • Balanced leadership capabilities, effectively managing internal operations while serving as a visible external ambassador • The ability to modernize systems and processes while maintaining organizational stabilityCompetitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.Interested candidates should submit a Resume and brief statement of interest outlining their experience to info@cdaedc.org.