Economic Development Manager
About The Position
The Town of Cornelius is seeking an innovative, strategic, and collaborative Economic Development Manager to lead initiatives that strengthen our local economy, support business growth, and bring our Downtown Master Plan to life. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced economic development professional to make a lasting impact in one of the Charlotte region's most vibrant communities. The successful candidate will work directly with Town leadership, business owners, developers, community organizations, and regional partners to implement transformative projects that enhance downtown vitality and drive sustainable economic growth.
Requirements
- Strong knowledge of downtown revitalization and economic development principles and practices.
- Experience with business recruitment, retention, redevelopment, and community partnerships.
- Knowledge of North Carolina economic development practices, planning processes, and funding opportunities; AICP certification is a plus.
- Familiarity with Main Street America principles and downtown revitalization programs.
- Understanding of grants, public financing tools, capital improvement planning, and project management.
- Excellent research, analytical, presentation, and written communication skills.
- Ability to build partnerships with elected officials, developers, business leaders, nonprofit organizations, and residents.
- Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat Professional.
- Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a closely related field.
- Five (5) to seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, downtown development, community development, or a closely related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Valid driver's license.
Nice To Haves
- Master's degree preferred.
- Main Street Program administration experience.
- Economic development certification (such as NC Certified Economic Developer) or related professional certifications.
Responsibilities
- Lead implementation of the Town's Downtown Master Plan and comprehensive economic development strategy.
- Foster relationships with business owners, developers, property owners, investors, community organizations, and government partners.
- Support business retention, expansion, recruitment, and redevelopment initiatives.
- Coordinate downtown revitalization efforts including streetscape enhancements, public art, placemaking, branding, and marketing initiatives.
- Develop, prepare, and administer grant applications to secure funding for economic development and redevelopment projects.
- Manage and support downtown marketing efforts, special events, beautification projects, and community engagement initiatives.
- Coordinate the promotion of downtown, events, and economic development activities, etc. as appropriate.
- Serve as the Town's Main Street Program Manager should Cornelius receive NC Main Street designation.
- Identify and advance (via product development, marketing, etc.) priority economic development sites and redevelopment opportunities.
- Collect, analyze, and present economic data, market trends, and development opportunities.
- Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for the Town Board, advisory boards, stakeholders, and community groups.
- Collaborate across Town departments—including Administration, Planning, Parks, and Public Works—to implement strategic initiatives.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
