Date Posted:         1/22/2025
Position/Title:                          Director, Business Recruitment
Organization:                          Missouri Partnership
Location:    Missouri (preference for Kansas City region)
Summary:

The purpose of the Director, Business Recruitment position is to lead and support successful business attraction projects across the state of Missouri. In doing so, the Director, Business Recruitment will be the day-to-day contact representing Missouri for companies, site location consultants, state and local economic development partners, and other various influencers involved in new out-of-state investment decisions considering Missouri.

Application to: careers@missouripartnership.com

Company Information:

Missouri Partnership is a public-private, non-profit organization with the principal mission of recruiting new business investment to the state. Through collaborative efforts with state and local partners, Missouri Partnership works to attract new companies by marketing the state’s business advantages.

________________________________________________________________________________________

Date Posted:         12/04/2024
Position/Title:                          President and CEO
Organization:                          Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA)
Location:    Madison, WI
Summary:

The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) is a statewide organization comprising a diverse membership, including professionals from various sectors of economic development. Our members include local and regional economic developers, city, county, town, and tribal officials, community planners, state and federal agency staff, university and technical college representatives, utility company staff, workforce development professionals, bankers, chamber of commerce staff, construction companies, economic development consultants, engineering companies, and residential, commercial, and retail developers. Our primary objective is to enhance the effectiveness of individuals involved in economic development and serve as the industry’s voice by promoting education, advocating for robust economic development policies, creating membership development programs, and advancing the profession throughout the state.

The President & CEO leads and oversees the Wisconsin Economic Development Association, acting as the public representative and supporting the organization in achieving its mission. This self-directed role requires economic development experience, project management, fundraising, communication (both internal and external), and relationship-building skills.

The President & CEO position reports to the Board President and Board of Directors, and will have a direct employment relationship with WEDA’s contracted Association Management Firm.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties are core to this position. These are not exhaustive and other duties may be required and assigned.

General Management & Supervision

Lead daily operations of the Association, including communication with officers, board members, and general membership.
Implement policies, by-laws, programs, and procedures.
Oversee staff team at Association Management Firm and other vendors responsible for membership management, communications, events, governance, advocacy, and finance.
Assist the Board of Directors in forming and delivering the organization’s fiscal budget, annual nominations process, and executing board activities.

Represent the Organization

Represent WEDA at public forums related to WEDA-sponsored studies and public policy matters.
Promote a positive image of the Association and avoid conflicts of interest.
Serve as a spokesperson for the Association to members, other trade organizations, and the general public.

Long-Range Planning

Lead the Board of Directors in developing and implementing a long-range strategic plan.
Recommend and implement new value-added initiatives.
Evaluate and recommend possible programs to better serve the membership and/or grow revenue for the Association.

Maintain Effective Public Relations

Develop and cultivate public/private partnerships.
Prepare and deliver public presentations, including testimony to the state legislature.
Provide information to media representatives, business and industry representatives, civic groups, service organizations, and government officials.
Develop and implement a comprehensive plan to maintain and enhance WEDA’s brand.

Develop and Lead Educational, Service, and Program Offerings

Research top trends, topics, and needs for WEDA members and develop corresponding opportunities or assign them to approved contracted staff.
Manage programs and relationships connected to the WEDA Academy, Wisconsin Economic Development Institute, Wisconsin Basic Economic Development Course, CRA Network, Partner MOU management, and Community and Economic Development Awards.

Membership Retention & Recruitment

Lead the Association and its Membership Committee in planning and implementing membership and corporate sponsor recruitment efforts.
Prepare and review annual membership and corporate sponsor recruitment and marketing materials.
Explore membership growth in various industry sectors related to economic development.

Fundraising

Secure corporate sponsorships and ensure the budget is met for all conferences, events, and meetings.
Fundraise for special projects and other organizational needs.
Ensure fundraising plans achieve the long term financial success of the organization and routinely explore other revenue strategies to develop long-range funding plans for WEDA.

Meetings and Events

Attend corporate and networking events as a representative of the Association.
Attend Association Board and Executive Committee meetings.
Prepare and present pertinent reports and information to the assn. and executive board during its regular meetings
Work with the Board and Association Committees to plan, coordinate, and implement the Association’s annual conferences and meetings.
Oversee all conferences and meetings, including the Governor’s Conference on Economic Development and the Fall Best Practices Conference.

Legislative Advocacy

Advocate for the Association’s Legislative Agenda and other issues valuable to the profession and membership, in collaboration with the Legislative Affairs Director.

Other

Sub-contracting for services requires prior approval from the Executive Committee before retaining any additional representatives for the Association.

Position Details

Reporting and Supervision

The President & CEO position is “at will” and serves at the pleasure of the Board of Directors.
Report to the Association’s Board President for day-to-day operational issues.
This position will have a direct employment relationship with an Association Management Firm contracted by WEDA.

Minimum Training and Experience Required to Perform Essential Job Functions

Bachelor’s degree in economic development, business, urban/regional planning, public administration, finance, or a related field.
Five years of progressively responsible experience in community and economic development, program development/operation and administration, or sales, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Master’s degree desired.
CEcD and/or EDFP certifications preferred.
Valid Wisconsin driver’s license or access to transportation required.

Supportive Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

Economic Development: Proven success in project leadership, management, and execution; commitment to regionalism; ability to lead diverse economic development activities.
Political Awareness: Ability to build and maintain relationships with key business and civic leaders; navigate organizational and political realities.
Building Relationships: Experience in building strong relationships with legislators, business professionals, and other stakeholders.
Change Agent: Experience facilitating organizational change; high energy, trust, and integrity; effective in group dynamics and consensus-building.
Business Acumen: Understanding of business operations and trends; ability to apply business tactics effectively.
Fundraising: able to identify prospects, describe value and manage relationships.
Organizational Skills: Managing meeting schedule, preparing for meetings, providing information for members to make timely decisions, managing records, facilitation and project management.
Drive for Results: Consistently meet or exceed goals; motivate self and others to achieve success.

Physical and Mental Abilities Required to Perform Essential Job Functions

Strong interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.
Ability to lead and adapt to change, build consensus, and advise on policies and procedures.
Strong written and verbal communication skills for diverse audiences.
Financial acumen and basic understanding of economic development financing, non-profit management, and related compliance.
Ability to interpret descriptive statistical reports and exercise judgment in program direction and planning.
Dedication to meeting stakeholder expectations and building effective relationships marked by trust and respect.

Work Schedule Expectations

Flexible work schedule defined by position duties; early morning and evening meetings may be necessary.
Responsiveness to member/stakeholder needs in a timely fashion.

Travel Expectation

Statewide travel required for client services, professional development, corporate sponsor relations, seminars, and conferences.
Occasional out of state travel.

Compensation and Benefits

For the purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act, this position is exempt.
The expected pay range for this position is $110,000-140,000, depending upon experience
Simple IRA with match up to 3%
PTO
Health insurance
Professional development allowance

General

WEDA is an equal opportunity employer.
Limited physical requirements for the position.
A background check is conducted for all staff members.

To apply for this position, please submit a cover letter & resume to weda@badgerbay.co

________________________________________________________________________________________

Date Posted:         11/25/2024
Position/Title:                          President and CEO
Organization:                          Johnstown Area Regional Industries
Location:    Johnstown, PA
Summary:

Johnstown Area Regional Industries (JARI) has been a cornerstone of economic development in Southwestern Pennsylvania since its founding in 1974. Established in response to the decline of the steel and coal industries, JARI’s mission is to diversify the regional economy by attracting new businesses, supporting small enterprises, and providing workforce development to meet evolving economic demands.

JARI delivers a comprehensive range of services, including workforce development, government contracting assistance, commercial lending, and real estate development. These programs are designed to foster business growth, create jobs, and strengthen the local economy. Serving the Greater Johnstown area, including Cambria and Somerset Counties, JARI also extends its reach through micro-lending and other business assistance programs in Bedford, Blair, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Indiana Counties.

For five decades, JARI has been instrumental in driving economic progress, recruiting international companies, supporting startups, and facilitating collaboration among local businesses and stakeholders. In 2024, JARI celebrated its 50th anniversary, reflecting its ongoing commitment to fostering economic growth and community development. The organization continues to play a critical role in connecting businesses with the resources and expertise they need to succeed.

Job Reporting Relationships
Supervised by: Board of Directors
Supervises: Executive Assistant; Chief Financial Officer; Vice President for Economic Development; Director of Workforce Development; Program Manager of APEX Accelerator

Basic Qualifications
Education/Training:
Bachelor's degree in a related field; MBA or related master's degree preferred
Thorough knowledge of economic development.

Skills:
Demonstrated proficiency in business planning and executive management
Exceptional interpersonal relations, communication, and leadership skills
Excellent public speaking abilities
Ability to manage multiple tasks
Proficient analytical and PC skills
Visual and auditory skills
Valid driver's license

Experience:
Minimum of ten (10) years of related experience

General Responsibilities
Responsible for the business planning and control of the organization's resources toward established objectives in a manner consistent with the philosophy of the Board of Directors and various regulatory requirements. Communicates and participates with the Board on all decisions affecting the organization that must be made at the Board level; implements directives of the Board; provides direction to key management personnel; provides and presents appropriate management reports.

Essential Duties

Plan, control, and manage the organization's resources toward established Board objectives by performing various executive management duties, including:
- Planning and controlling policies and practices of the organization and its resources to ensure compliance with Board policies and regulatory requirements;
- Communicating and participating with the Board regarding all decisions affecting the organization that must be made at the Board level, including:
- Organizing and participating in fundraising activities; securing funding contracts.
- Coordinating and supervising economic development programs.

Develop, implement, and achieve annual goals and objectives as established in the organization's annual operating plan including:
- Allocating division resources toward tasks required to achieve goals and objectives.
- Directing, through appropriate management and supervisory personnel, day-to-day activities in support of divisional objectives.
- Measuring effectiveness and performance of systems and personnel.
- Developing resources to improve efficiency and productivity.
- Assisting in the development of the annual budget and adhering to budget parameters.

Organize division management to achieve objectives.
Abide by current laws and organizational policies and procedures designed to promote an environment free of sexual harassment and other forms of illegal discriminatory behavior in the workplace.
Ensure adherence to risk management policies, regulatory compliance, and internal operational standards.
Directly supervise assigned management and support personnel, including:
- Selecting and discharging personnel as appropriate.
- Providing orientation and training for new hires.
- Reviewing employee performance on a regular basis.

Communicate and interface with management personnel throughout the organization to integrate objectives and activities.
Provide periodic reports to the Board of Directors and other stakeholders as required.
Assume responsibility for special projects as assigned by the Board of Directors.

Ancillary Duties
Perform tasks supportive in nature to the essential functions of the job, which may be altered or redesigned depending upon individual circumstances.

Additional Useful Experience

Global and Regional Experience: Possesses experience with international markets and can foster partnerships that expand JARI’s reach to international businesses, especially those interested in entering the U.S. market through Pennsylvania.
Technologically Aware: Has awareness of technology’s impact on the workforce and the business community, as this is increasingly relevant to regional economic development and workforce planning.
Fundraising and Grant Experience: Proven ability to secure funding through grants and direct appeals to government bodies at the local, state, and federal levels.

Desired Personality Traits and Characteristics

Community-Oriented Leader:Demonstrates a deep commitment to community involvement, not just as a manager but as an active participant in local events, community issues, and business advocacy.
Confidence with Humility:Exhibits confidence without arrogance; is approachable and does not present themselves as superior to others, especially in Johnstown’s close-knit community.
Hands-On and Proactive: Has a “doer” attitude with a strong sense of urgency, comfortable taking direct action, rolling up his/her sleeves and getting hands dirty as needed to achieve organizational goals, while also being a strategic thinker and project manager.
Open-Minded and Adaptable:Maintains an open-minded approach, listens actively, and is willing to entertain new ideas while showing respect for JARI’s current direction and successes.
Apolitical yet Politically Savvy: Stays neutral in political matters but understands the importance of working effectively with government and community stakeholders.
Executive presence: Polished; self-confident; has political savvy necessary to maneuver through complex situations effectively and quietly.

Leadership Style

Collaborative and Team-Oriented: Works well with diverse groups, including government officials, business leaders, and community members; a unifier who takes time to build relationships; fosters collaboration and communication across teams and departments.
Transparent and Accountable: Ensures transparency in financial and operational matters, keeping the Board and stakeholders informed of progress, especially in areas like loan collection, financial health, and grant management. Drives for results through clear benchmarking and metrics tracking.
High Visibility: Highly visible to staff, members, and business leaders; active in the region and community.
Balanced Approach to Change:Recognizes the value of continuity within JARI’s established successful practices while bringing a fresh perspective to adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities in economic development.

This position is open until filled. Please submit your application as soon as possible to ensure you are considered for this position. Upon receipt, resumes will be screened in relation to the criteria outlined in this brochure. Candidates selected for interview will be contacted by Jorgenson Pace. For consideration, please submit a cover letter résumé to Anthony Michelic at JARI@jorgensonpace.com

________________________________________________________________________________________

Date Posted:         11/21/2024
Position/Title:                          Senior Vice President, Economic Development (“SVP”)
Organization:                          Greater Oklahoma City Chamber
Location:    Oklahoma City, OK
Summary:

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce(“the Chamber”) has been the voice of business and the visionary organization in Oklahoma City for more than a century. This vibrant and forward-thinking organization serves as the primary economic development organization in the 10-county region, manages the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau (a division of the Chamber) and is one of the lead organizations driving community development in Oklahoma City, all in addition to what are considered traditional chamber functions. The Chamber has a staff of more than 70 employees, a consolidated budget of approximately $20 million and a membership of approximately 2,600.

With a strong focus on economic development, public policy advocacy, and community engagement, the Chamber leads initiatives that drive job creation, infrastructure improvements, and workforce development. The Chamber serves as the lead organization for the Greater Oklahoma City Regional Partnership, a 10-county partnership created by the Chamber to convene the lead economic development entities to promote and seamlessly respond to economic development opportunities. The Chamber also focuses on destination retail development within Greater Oklahoma City. The Chamber’s Forward OKC VII is the funding program for key economic development initiatives and is expected to generate $17-$20 million over five years.

More information on the Chamber can be found on its website: www.okcchamber.com

The Greater Oklahoma City region offers a dynamic, business-friendly environment with a low cost of living, robust infrastructure, and a strong sense of community. Known for its vision and innovation, the area has a diverse economy that spans energy, aerospace, healthcare, technology, and biosciences, creating ample opportunities across various sectors. Oklahoma City is home to leading energy companies, a growing tech sector, and one of the largest aerospace industry hubs in the country. Oklahoma City’s population is over 680,000 and is part of a growing 10-county regional population of 1.4 million. The region benefits from its central location at the confluence of I-35, I-40 and I-44, Oklahoma City is the largest regional market between Kansas City to the north and Dallas-Fort Worth to the South.

Tinker Air Logistics Complex is a unique and significant economic engine and strategic asset for the region and the U.S. economy. As one of the largest Air Force maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities, it supports key aircraft like the B-1, B-52, and KC-135, creating thousands of jobs for civilians and military personnel. The base contributes billions of dollars to the local economy annually through salaries, contracts with local businesses, and infrastructure investments. The Chamber works closely with leadership and our congressional delegation to expand missions at Tinker; its role in national defense ensures steady federal funding, while future projects, like modernization of aircraft and new defense initiatives, offer substantial economic growth potential for the area.

Oklahoma City’s film industry is rapidly growing, drawing productions with competitive tax incentives and diverse landscapes. State and local incentives support local job creation and boost the economy by offering rebates for film projects. As the industry expands, Oklahoma City is becoming an attractive hub for filmmakers, benefiting local talent and businesses alike. The Oklahoma City Film & Creative Industries Office is a part of the Chamber’s economic development department.

Our biotechnology industry is thriving, driven by strong support from local institutions, research facilities, and investment initiatives. The Chamber successfully led a collaborative $35 million grant request to enhance facilities and create an association to convene partners and promote the life sciences sector. The city has become a hub for biotech startups and research in areas like pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and gene therapy. With a collaborative community, skilled workforce, and a commitment to innovation, Oklahoma City’s bio industry is attracting investment and establishing itself as a key player in the national biotech landscape.

In addition to its economic appeal, the city provides a rich quality of life, blending urban amenities with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Affordable housing, minimal commute times, and renowned parks and recreational areas make the city ideal for work-life balance. Investments in education and training resources also mean excellent career development prospects for individuals and families looking to grow and thrive in an evolving professional landscape.

Senior Vice President, Economic Development (“SVP”) reports to the Chamber’s President & Chief Executive Officer and serves on the executive leadership team. The SVP manages a team of approximately 15 FTEs; some positions are related to specific work under grants and contracts. The Senior Vice President, Economic Development (SVP) works to diversify, strengthen and grow the Greater Oklahoma City economy by leading the regional economic development efforts of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. This position is responsible for implementation of regional business attraction, retention, expansion, and ecosystem initiatives/programs that position the region to be a choice location for businesses, all with the goal of positively affecting regional job creation, capital investment and gross domestic product (GDP). The SVP will also support the Chamber public policy, education, talent, visitor development and membership teams by advising or providing guidance on local, state, and federal legislation, workforce issues or member engagement and events.

Ideal candidate will demonstrate a proven track record of accomplishment and success in an executive position with significant economic development achievement with a highly respected economic development organization, chamber of commerce, municipal government, or industrial corporation recognized for civic responsibility and regional economic development activities. A proven history of leading and managing business recruitment, development, retention and expansion programs (including lead generation, pipeline management and deal closing) with a focus on innovation to adapt to changing trends and targeted industry sectors is required. Experience working with the public and private sectors to collaborate on projects is critical to the success of our work. Military installation related economic development experience is preferred Candidate will also have an outstanding record of fiscal and personnel management and experience.

A Bachelor’s degree in business, public administration, economics, urban planning, or a closely related field is required; an advanced degree is a related field is considered a plus. Status as a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) or the possession of other industry recognized economic development credentials desirable.

Outstanding opportunity for a chamber, economic development, association or an accomplished private or nonprofit sector executive to lead and grow the economic development program in a dynamic regional community. The Chamber has an exceptional relationship with municipal leaders which allows for strong community collaboration. Many key private and public-sector organizations in Oklahoma City have relatively new leadership and they collectively recognize the region is poised to continue its significant growth trajectory. The economic development leader selected for the position at the Chamber will be one of the community’s key drivers for that to occur. The Greater Oklahoma City region has a track record of supporting important initiatives to move the area forward there is an experienced and dedicated CEO, staff and enthusiastic volunteer leadership with a “get it done” attitude to support their efforts to elevate the regional economic development program to new levels of success. The SVP, Economic Development is a highly visible leadership position and will have significant influence on the continued growth and development of the Greater Oklahoma City region in the years to come.

Contacts

If you are aware of an outstanding chamber, economic development or business executive who meets these requirements and would be interested in evaluating this dynamic opportunity, please contact Waverly Partners, the executive search firm retained by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber on this search and the “preferred provider” of executive search services of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. A full Position Profile is available upon request.

Email: OklahomaCity@Waverly-Partners.com

Eric N. Peterson, Managing Director & Principal             Debbie M. Galbraith, Managing Director & Principal
Waverly Partners, Cleveland, Ohio                             Waverly Partners, Kansas City, Kansas
O: 440.892.5961; M: 440.463.0988                               O: 785.856.9273; M: 785.764.2920
EPeterson@Waverly-Partners.com                       DGalbraith@Waverly-Partners.com

________________________________________________________________________________________

Date Posted:         10/08/2024
Position/Title:                          President & CEO
Organization:                          Cornerstone Alliance
Location:    Benton Harbor, MI
Salary:                                     Full Salary Range: $175,000 - $220,000
Summary:

Cornerstone Alliance is seeking a President & CEO to provide leadership and vision in driving the economic development strategies of Michigan’s Great Southwest. Positioning the region as the first choice for relocation and business investment, the President & CEO is responsible for overseeing the administration, programming, and strategic planning of the organization while driving enthusiasm about the opportunities in the region. Positioned in Berrien County, Michigan, Cornerstone Alliance knows that the community can achieve inclusive growth by taking proactive measures that support more opportunities for all.

The President & CEO of Cornerstone Alliance is the key management leader driving measurable growth by actively investing in a sustainable and favorable business climate, through accessibility and talent pipelines, and a visible commitment to supporting businesses. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the President & CEO has responsibility for leading the team in delivering customer-focused economic development solutions through partnerships that grow employment opportunities, increasing the tax base, and adding to the economic vibrancy of the area. Consisting of a team of 10 talented professionals and a budget of nearly $3M, Cornerstone Alliance strategic plan represents the economic, community, and physical development priorities for Berrien County and its municipalities with specialized business services offered in economically distressed areas.

Under the leadership of the President & CEO, Cornerstone Alliance will position the community for sustained success in gaining new investments to attract business and talent to fortify the region’s economic competitiveness.

HOW TO APPLY

Highly qualified and experienced economic development leaders with a deep knowledge of business attraction, retention, and expansion strategies, organizational excellence, and community leadership are encouraged to submit a resume, letter of interest, and references to: CornerstoneAlliance@winnerpartners.net

________________________________________________________________________________________