Economic Development Manager

International Downtown Association • Seattle, WA

315d • $89,000 - $103,000

About The Position

The U District Partnership (UDP) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant, diverse, and healthy neighborhood for everyone who works and lives in or visits Seattle's University District. The U District itself is home to nearly 40,000 residents, 50,000 students, and 28,000 UW faculty and staff. UDP serves as both a voice and a steward for the community, delivering services across a range of program areas: economic development, placemaking and urban planning, cleaning, public safety, homeless outreach, marketing, and events. In addition to grants and sponsorships, we are partially funded by the U District Business Improvement Area (UDBIA) fund, which was reestablished by City ordinance in 2020. As the Economic Development Manager, you will join an organization with over a century of service to Seattle's University District. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, you will collaborate with a skilled team of managers across diverse lines of business. We are seeking an outgoing candidate who brings a unique blend of subject matter expertise, curiosity, and a passion for local economic development. You thrive on building meaningful relationships with people and have a solid understanding of the economic pressure and dynamics facing small businesses, property owners, and developers. You have a proven ability to work effectively with public and private stakeholders and an ability to navigate established systems related to economic development. You will excel in this role because you are organized, self-directed, and energized by other people and variety, and thrive in a team environment.

Requirements

• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in real estate development, community-based development, brokerage services, real estate finance, planning, or a related field.
• A graduate degree in real estate, urban planning, public/business administration, or a related field is preferred, though additional experience may substitute for the degree.
• A deep understanding of the roles business improvement areas and economic development corporations play in assisting local businesses and property owners.
• Strong grasp of the Seattle development process including understanding of the permitting, deal structuring, financing mechanisms, and construction processes.
• Significant industry contacts throughout Seattle including developers, small business owners, brokers, and senior city agency employees.
• Exceptional interpersonal, verbal, and written communication capability.
• Exceptional project management skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proven experience developing and managing excellent customer and constituent relations.
• A proven track-record of successfully building partnerships and ability to work with a wide range of people of diverse backgrounds.
• Strong problem-solving skills with an ability to think creatively.
• Demonstrated ability to organize, lead, and inspire stakeholders to affect change.
• Adept at managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to use Google Workspace and Microsoft Office; proficiency with CoStar, Esri, Placer.ai, and Adobe Creative Suite is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Small Business Outreach and Advocacy - Seek regular input and feedback to better understand community needs and perspectives of small businesses, elevate their issues to those who need to hear them, organize community members to elevate awareness of economic issues, and attend externally convened meetings to represent UDP and/or the U District community.
• Commercial Attraction, Research and Special Projects - Collaborate with the Executive Director and community to develop and execute a commercial attraction strategy, track occupancy and economic trends, produce reports showcasing the neighborhood's growth, and lead special projects that enhance the economic vitality of the district.
• Planning and Development Policy - Advance inclusive economic development policy initiatives and programs, serve as the primary liaison to public agencies, and manage relationships with small businesses, real estate developers, the University of Washington, and other community stakeholders.
• Board and Stakeholder Engagement - Build strong relationships with stakeholders, lead the coordination and execution of regular UDP Economic Development Committee meetings, and support the UDP Executive Director in sourcing and engaging with prospective Committee and Board members.

Benefits

• Salary range: $89,000 - $103,000 (depending on experience)
• Employer-paid medical and dental
• Paid time-off
• Employer-paid ORCA card
• Retirement plan with 3% employer match
• Life and disability insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: Master's degree