Position DescriptionThe Economic Development Director develops and implements the City of Minneapolis's economic development strategy by leading the Business Development, Small Business, Licenses & Consumer Services, Employment & Training, and Promise Zone teams. The role involves providing entrepreneurial support, development assistance, and training programs to enhance residents' employability. The Director acts as a principal strategist, marketer, and negotiator to boost business ownership, wealth accumulation, and community engagement, aiming to reduce racial economic disparities in Minneapolis.
The City of Minneapolis does not sponsor applicants for work visas.
Job Duties and Responsibilities- Set goals and objectives for the economic policy and development division that align with the City's goals and the department's mission and strategies; monitor performance and recommend corrective action.
- Analyze market trends to develop strategies and policies related to workforce needs and commercial and industrial development within the City.
- Track, analyze, and create work plans to address changing needs for public interventions to retain and grow business activity, resulting in increased tax base and employment opportunities.
- Identify and provide leadership in processes, policies, regulation, and system improvements to support equitable economic development outcomes and livable neighborhoods throughout the City.
- Create, review, and monitor division budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to achieve desired outcomes.
- Prepare and manage strategies for the redevelopment of City-owned commercial real estate holdings.
- Facilitate processes to leverage government, corporate, and philanthropic support for the City's investments and communities.
- Coordinate with civic leadership groups, such as business, labor, foundations, and non-profit groups, to invest in the economic development of the City.
- Serve as a member of the CPED leadership team, contributing to the development of strategic plans, staffing plans, policy changes, and systems improvements.
- Function as a liaison with the Mayor and City Council members on economic development policy issues.
- Lead critical negotiations with business leaders, community-based organizations, and political decision-makers on matters important to the division's mission.
- Lead research efforts, prepare reports, planning documents, and presentations for elected officials, stakeholder groups, and the public.
- Review significant transactions and agreements impacting the department, making recommendations to the Director, City Operating Officer, Mayor, and City Council.
- Represent CPED on various boards, task forces, and committees.
- Interpret department policy to division staff and management.
- Present complex information to various audiences, including the Mayor and senior City staff, at public hearings, Council Committee meetings, and community organizations.
- Participate in executive-level decisions and policy setting within the department, including strategic planning, policy formulation, organizational structure, and staffing decisions.
- Manage the five teams in the division and provide mentorship and guidance to direct reports.
- Attend and speak at press conferences, seminars, public policy forums, and neighborhood meetings
WORKING CONDITIONS: Regular indoor office setting
Required QualificationsMINIMUM EDUCATION: Master's Degree in Public Affairs, Urban Studies, Economics, Public Administration, Political Science or a related field.
MINIMUM EXPERIENCETen or more years of diverse and progressively responsible experience performing related duties.
EQUIVALENCY An equivalent combination of education and highly related experience in a similar environment may be considered.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:N/A
SELECTION PROCESSThe selection process will consist of one or more of the following steps: a rating of relevant education and experience (100% ). It is important that your application show all the relevant education and experience you possess. This information will be used to determine which candidates will proceed in the selection process. A submitted application is also used to verify the answers to any supplemental questions. Only those candidates who attain a passing score (70%) on each step in the selection process will be placed on the eligible list. The City of Minneapolis Human Resources Department reserves the right to limit the number in any phase of the selection process.
BACKGROUND CHECKThe City has determined that a criminal background check and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be further considered for the position.
ELIGIBLE LIST STATEMENTThe names of applicants who meet minimum qualification and who pass the screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration. This list will be certified to the hiring manager who may use the list to fill a vacancy of the same job title. This eligible list will expire two months after it has been established.
INTERVIEW SELECTIONThe hiring authority reserves the right to determine the maximum number of candidates to interview from the established eligible list. If the hiring authority decides to interview other than by exam score order, they may select additional people to interview based on a candidate’s education or experience related to the field, work history, or skills uniquely related to the operational needs of the position.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities- Thorough knowledge and understanding of local government functions, practices, and financial operations, including applicable local and state laws related to the administration of municipalities.
- Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of community development programs and their relationship to government, philanthropic, institutional, and community partnerships.
- Understanding of how marketing, advertising, and promotional methods increase awareness of City programs and investments.
- Considerable knowledge of urban planning and development, private development financing, and project development processes.
- Considerable knowledge of public financing, accounting, budgeting, financial analysis, and procurement practices.
- Considerable knowledge of and experience in inclusive community engagement strategies.
- Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, direct, coordinate, and supervise the work of staff and coordinate complex projects.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement public policy and translate existing policies, ordinances, etc. into achievable work plans.
- Experience in developing real estate deal structures.
- Knowledge of the economics of businesses, facilities budgets, labor requirements, transportation needs, and customer markets.
- Experience in public program development and implementation.
- Knowledge of workforce development programs and practices.
- Knowledge of past practices and public policy decisions that created economic disparities.
- Knowledge of the State and Federal Legislative process.
- Knowledge of commercial, industrial, and residential real estate markets and property law.
- Experience in evaluating operating and capital pro forma.
- Knowledge of organizational and human behavior and the ability to serve as an objective mediator in sensitive situations.
- Good negotiating and marketing skills.
- Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with persons from diverse economic, social, and ethnic backgrounds.
- Demonstrated ability to increase personal cultural competency and lead inclusive cultural change in the division.
- Strong public communication skills.
- Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships in a political atmosphere.
- Ability to think strategically and manage multiple and diverse functions.
- Ability to meet deadlines and pay close attention to detail.
Closing Date/Time: 6/16/2024 11:59 PM Central
