In September of 2015, AngelouEconomics completed an Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan for Atlantic County, here in South Jersey. One of the recommendations was to establish a regional economic development authority. In January of this year, the Atlantic County Improvement Authority retained AngelouEconomics to consult in launching the newly formed Atlantic County Economic Alliance also known as the Atlantic County Economic Development Corporation (“ACEDC”).
This org is seeking an experienced, visionary and motivated economic development professional to serve as Executive Director.
The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated record of accomplishment in attracting new businesses and industries and retaining existing businesses and industries in an economically challenging environment. The Executive Director will report to the ACEDA Board of Directors and will have responsibility for day to day operations.
ATLANTIC COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Executive Director will play a key role in shaping, developing and growing the ACEDA as it evolves from its infancy to a dynamic catalyst for economic development and growth in the Atlantic County region. This position will require strong leadership, communications and organizational skills as well as the ability to work effectively with local business leaders, community groups and development agencies, planning and zoning boards, regulatory agencies and government officials. This is a full time position.
Professional Qualifications:
Five (5) to seven (7) years of experience as a high level economic development professional with a demonstrated track record of attracting and retaining business, and soliciting and growing public and private sector investment and investors in support of an economic development organization.
Familiarity with social, economic, environmental and regulatory issues that impact economic development in Atlantic County.
Familiarity with federal business incentive programs and economic development grant programs. Ability to quickly learn New Jersey specific economic development and grant programs.
Supervisory and management experience.
The ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.
The ability to create, maintain and adhere to budgets.
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Marketing or related field.
Master’s Degree in Business, Public Administration, Public Policy, Marketing or Economics preferred.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Direct the operation and staff of the ACEDA to achieve the goals and objectives outlined in the 2015 Atlantic County Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan (the “Action Strategy”) available at: http://www.aclink.org/pdf/Atlantic-County-SR-Final-092115.pdf .
The strategy was developed by Angelo Angelou of AngelouEconomics; an expert in economic development
Solicit and grow private and public sector investors and stakeholders in support of Corporation operations. Identify and secure funding from public, private and non-profit sources.
Develop and implement programs to retain and expand existing businesses in Atlantic County.
Attract new, targeted strategic businesses and industries in accordance with the Action Strategy.
Implement a campaign to rebrand and market Atlantic County as a place to live and do business.
Develop programs and initiatives to improve the business climate in Atlantic County.
Align Workforce Development efforts with the Action Strategy to maximize job readiness skills and increase employment opportunities.
Establish and operate the ACEDA as the initial point of entry for business relocation assistance.
Foster harmonious working relations and coordination of activities with business leaders and groups such as Chambers of Commerce, educational institutions, private developers, state and
county public authorities and target private sector companies.
Assist businesses in obtaining assistance with federal, state and local governments offering incentives and financial assistance.
Develop and implement a “Newcomer Assistance” program to assist businesses and their employees in relocating to Atlantic County.
Serve as a primary source of information and referral for business on economic development issues.
Maintain active working knowledge of economic trends, prepare or arrange for the preparation of statistical or analytical reports on a variety of development related issues as needed or requested by the Board.
Salary and benefits negotiable predicated on experience and demonstrated success.
Apply Here. Send resume, cover letter with compensation requirements and references by April 22 to:
Ms. Brett Matik, Search Committee Chairperson, ACEDAsearch@acbiz.org.