ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

City of Toronto•Toronto, ON

6d•CA$93,734 - CA$123,449•Onsite

About The Position

Working within the Economic Development & Culture division, the Economic Development Officer will participate in the implementation and delivery of business retention and expansion programs and services to enhance the local competitiveness of the City's business community. As a member of the Business Retention and Expansion unit, the Economic Development Officer will provide outstanding service to Toronto's businesses, commit to being a self-starter and leader in the organization and promote and exemplify behaviour consistent with the Toronto Public Service Values.

Requirements

Post-secondary education in a professional discipline pertinent to the job function combined with relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Extensive experience in economic development directly related to the position.
Action oriented, innovative and dynamic individual with a demonstrated commitment to and experience in teamwork and customer service.
Ability to contribute as a member of the Business Retention and Expansion team.
Proficiency in various competencies that include highly developed human relation skills, with the ability to communicate, negotiate and develop solid internal and external relationships, analytical and conflict resolution skills.
Proficient with the Use of Salesforce and/or other Customer Relationship Management tools and reporting
Thorough technical knowledge of relevant legislation affecting economic growth and competition in Toronto and proficiency in business administration, research, marketing, customer service and policy development.
Sound executive judgement and ability in handling matters of a confidential and/or sensitive nature as it relates to senior business executives, Council and other senior staff.
Must possess a valid Ontario Class "G" Driver's License and access to a vehicle for field work.
Familiarity with government legislation in Occupational Health and Safety.

Nice To Haves

Certified Economic Developer (Ec.D.) or CEc D will be considered an asset.
Registered Professional Planners (RPPs) and Planning Background will be considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Assists with developing partnerships with internal and external stakeholders that will enhance the economic prosperity of the City.
Liaises with City divisions, government agencies, developers, utilities and other agencies to facilitate and expedite development and business expansion in Toronto including the delivery of the Gold Star Program for Business
Performs reviews of specific services and competitive factors to ensure that the services are effective and properly targeted to support the Collaboration for Competitiveness Strategy for Accelerating Economic Growth and Job Creation
Assists existing companies with expansion and redevelopment proposals including special projects involving land development negotiations and properly acquisition.
Gathers company intelligence, business issues and opportunities to inform the implementation of new programs and services to enhance the business climate.
Fosters an entrepreneurial climate whereby new and innovative partnerships are developed to leverage and support the creation of a positive environment for business growth.
Participates in the development of a city-wide business outreach program to support the retention and expansion of existing business.
Participates in the development and implementation of reporting and tracking system for client and business development activities and outcomes.
Communicates field trends, business impediments/concerns and opportunities to the Manager, Business Retention and Expansion
Prepares and supports Presentations, Briefing Notes, Specialized Reports and Staff Reports for City Council and its various committees for BR&E related activities.
Prepares and presents proposals to senior business executives on site selection and expansion opportunities.
Develops a business sector partnership program which will focus on adding value to the growth potential of specific industry sectors and geographic areas through business development and new business as well as the delivery of the available incentive programs.
Represents the City at international, national, and local trade shows and business development activities.
Facilitates and initiates the development of partnerships to support both existing and geographically based organizations/advisory boards.
Initiates policy related strategies that impact the competitiveness and viability of businesses, business sectors and geographic areas
Provides support to community councils on local economic development issues and input to planning applications from field offices.
Fosters and promotes strong communication channels within the field office and to the central office.
Reports monthly on client activity and completed investment projects.