Economic Development Director
Position Description: Economic Development Director
Organization: Indian River County Chamber of Commerce
Location: Vero Beach, FL
Reports to: President of the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce FLSA Classification: Exempt
Summary
The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is seeking an experienced and dynamic individual to fill the role of Economic Development Director. This role is pivotal in driving economic growth across Indian River County, leading business retention, expansion, and recruitment efforts, as well as entrepreneurial development and market research. This position works closely in partnership with the County’s Economic Development department. 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.
Key Responsibilities
- Business Recruitment and Attraction: Market Indian River County to outside businesses; facilitating relocation to the area. Respond to requests for information from state and industry partner leads.
- Site Selection Support: Facilitate site selection activities for businesses considering relocation or expansion into Indian River County, providing detailed proposals, site tours, and ongoing communication.
- Strategic Economic Planning: Lead and implement economic development strategies, focusing on business retention, expansion, and attraction, particularly in targeted industries.
- Partnership Development: Foster and maintain relationships with public and private stakeholders, including the Economic Leadership investment Alliance, local government, and other organizations to drive economic development initiatives. Represent the Chamber at meetings, events, and conferences.
- Budgeting and Reporting: Develop and manage the annual budget for the Economic Development Division, and prepare an annual report for the County.
- Data Analysis: Collect, interpret, and analyze market and community data to identify trends and issues, aiding in the development of strategic initiatives.
- Program Implementation: Manage key Chamber programs Industry Appreciation Awards and Manufacturing Workshop Week.
- Education: 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.
- Experience: At least 5 years of experience in economic development, community development, or redevelopment, preferably within Florida or the Southeast U.S.
- Skills and Knowledge:
- Expertise in business recruitment and attraction, and the site selection process.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills.
- Strong understanding of economic development programs, marketing analysis, contract development, and local government operations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to manage projects, develop strategic plans, and work within budgetary constraints.
- Florida Driver's License required.
This position is a key leadership role within the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, contributing directly to the economic vitality of the region. The selected candidate will be a proactive, energetic leader with a commitment to fostering economic growth in Indian River County.
Salary Range: $85,000 – $95,000 plus generous benefit package
In-person presence in Indian River County is required; remote work is not practical for this position.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer and it is our policy not to discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee based on age, color, sex, disability, national origin, race, religion or veteran status.
