Economic Development Manager

Warren County•Warren County, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The County of Warren is seeking a motivated, professional, and results-oriented Economic Development Manager to support and strengthen the County's business community and economic growth initiatives. The position manages the County's Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program, assists small businesses and startups, administers economic development incentives, and supports business attraction efforts. The Manager works with local businesses, County and Town departments, state and regional partners, and community organizations to identify opportunities, address business needs, and promote economic growth throughout Warren County. The role requires independent judgment, managing multiple projects, maintaining confidential business information, and serving as the designated backup to the Economic Development Director. The position primarily operates in a standard office environment and includes regular local travel throughout Warren County for employer visits, business meetings, and site inspections. The hiring salary range is $72,879.97–$86,631.38, depending on qualifications and experience. An excellent benefits package is included. The position is open until filled.

Requirements

Education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Planning, Economics, or a related field.
Three years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, business services, a chamber of commerce, commercial lending, workforce development, or a related field.
Valid Virginia driver's license with an acceptable driving record, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
Successful completion of a background check.
Complete an IEDC-accredited Basic Economic Development Course within 18 months of hire, at County expense, unless previously completed.
Execute a confidentiality acknowledgment covering proprietary business and prospect information.
Occasional evening and weekend attendance at meetings and community events.
Regular local travel to employer facilities, industrial sites, and partner offices.
Pre-employment criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening are required.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with a Virginia locality or the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP).
Experience administering grants, business incentives, or performance agreements.
Experience managing a Business Retention and Expansion program.
Familiarity with CRM platforms, JobsEQ, and labor market analysis tools.
IEDC coursework or progress toward the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation.

Responsibilities

Develop and manage the County's Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program, including conducting employer visits and identifying business growth opportunities.
Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, employers, and community partners.
Assist businesses with permitting, licensing, zoning, workforce, utility, and other operational needs.
Support small businesses, startups, and downtown business development initiatives.
Administer the County's Technology Zone program and monitor compliance with economic development incentive agreements.
Track business performance commitments, including job creation, wages, and capital investments.
Prepare economic development reports, labor market analyses, and presentations for County leadership and the Board of Supervisors.
Coordinate with regional and state partners, including the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), workforce organizations, and educational institutions.
Support business recruitment, expansion projects, site visits, and prospect inquiries.
Maintain department records, databases, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems.
Represent the County at business meetings, community events, and economic development activities.
Serve as the designated backup to the Economic Development Director.