Economic Development Specialist

Under the general direction of the Economic Development Director, performs various duties, including tasks related to the organizations administrative functions. The role will support the operations and board of directors of the Forney EDC.

## Examples of Duties

The following dutiesARE NOTintended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

– Coordinate the implementation of special projects; assist the Director with active prospects.
– Coordinate business development initiatives; research target industries; prepare site search and consultant response submittals; implement marketing strategies for trade shows; plan business attraction events, including site tours, industry roundtables, and related programs.
– Support the Director with Business Retention and Expansion efforts; implement strategies in support of local employers; plan business retention events for major employers; provide support to existing small businesses as needed; assist with organizational development programs; assist the Director with business expansion projects; evaluates workforce needs; plans related events.
– Assist in implementing economic development strategies based on goals and initiatives outlined in the City of Forney Comprehensive Plan and determined by City leadership.
– Provide marketing management to the department, including advertising in publications, digital platforms, website maintenance, and social media.
– Monitor progress and implementation of the Forney EDC Strategic Plan.
– Manage downtown incentive programs and monitor incentive agreement compliance; administer the hotel occupancy tax program, including training applicants, reviewing applications, and recommending staff.
– Assist the Director, Administrative Assistant and City Attorney with legal contracts and performance agreements.
– Speak to local/regional groups on economic development initiatives; attend area governmental meetings when needed; meet with prospects and vendors.
– Prepare economic impact reports and prospect application components.
– Support the Director with various projects as assigned; follow up with business prospects and data dissemination.
– Coordinate intergovernmental relations and public affairs efforts on behalf of the department.
– Create and maintain positive relationships with commercial realtors, developers, major employers, elected officials, state/regional organizations, among others.
– Assist with EDC-owned property management and downtown redevelopment initiatives.
– Research labor data and use related software programs to obtain pertinent information.
– Copy, scan, fax, and file documents; enter data into electronic databases.
– Prepare and distribute correspondence and memoranda.
– Provide administrative support in the absence of the Administrative Assistant.
– Perform related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:No direct supervision exercised.

## Minimum Qualifications

– Possess a valid drivers license.
– Associate degree or two years of college with a focus in Economic Development, Business, Marketing, Public Administration, or related area
– Two (2) years experience of professional experience in economic development, planning, marketing, or a field closely related to economic development is required.
– A combination of education, training, and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.