Director of Economic Development

$80,000 - $95,000/Yr

Indian River County Chamber Of Commerce - Vero Beach, FL

Full-time - Senior

Onsite - Vero Beach, FL

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is seeking an experienced and dynamic individual to fill the role of Director of Economic Development. This role is pivotal in driving economic growth across Indian River County, overseeing business retention, expansion, and recruitment efforts, as well as entrepreneurial development and market research. The successful candidate will implement strategies aimed at attracting new businesses while supporting existing ones, contributing to job creation and an enhanced tax base. This is a full-time salaried position. The Chamber is recognized as the official Economic Development Organization (EDO) by the Florida Department of Commerce, operating under the direction of the Indian River County Board of County Commissioners. In this position, the Director will lead and implement economic development strategies, focusing on business retention, expansion, and attraction, particularly in targeted industries. The role requires fostering and maintaining relationships with public and private stakeholders, including the Economic Leadership Alliance, local government, and other organizations, to drive economic development initiatives. The Director will oversee projects that support business attraction, retention, and redevelopment, ensuring alignment with the county's economic goals. Additionally, the Director will develop and manage the annual budget for the Economic Development Division, prepare an annual report for the county, and collect, interpret, and analyze market and community data to identify trends and issues, aiding in the development of strategic initiatives. The position also involves facilitating site selection activities for businesses considering relocation or expansion into Indian River County, providing detailed proposals, site tours, and ongoing communication. Representing the Chamber at meetings, events, and conferences to promote economic development efforts and build partnerships is also a key responsibility. The Director will manage key Chamber events such as the Industry Appreciation Awards and the Manufacturing Bootcamp program.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement economic development strategies focusing on business retention, expansion, and attraction.
• Foster and maintain relationships with public and private stakeholders to drive economic development initiatives.
• Oversee projects that support business attraction, retention, and redevelopment.
• Develop and manage the annual budget for the Economic Development Division.
• Prepare an annual report for the county.
• Collect, interpret, and analyze market and community data to identify trends and issues.
• Facilitate site selection activities for businesses considering relocation or expansion into Indian River County.
• Represent the Chamber at meetings, events, and conferences to promote economic development efforts.
• Manage key Chamber events such as the Industry Appreciation Awards and the Manufacturing Bootcamp program.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in economic development, urban planning, public/business administration, economics, marketing, finance, or a related field strongly preferred.
• A Master's Degree and Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation are highly desirable.
• At least 5 years of experience in economic development, community development, or redevelopment, preferably within Florida or the Southeast U.S.
• Strong understanding of economic development programs, marketing analysis, contract development, and local government operations.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage projects, develop strategic plans, and work within budgetary constraints.
• Florida Driver's License required.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in fields such as community development, project management, finance, commercial real estate, or entrepreneurship may be considered on a year-for-year basis.

Benefits

• Generous benefit package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.