Overview
The Passaic County Department of Planning & Economic Development is seeking an Economic Development Director. The position is responsible for developing and implementing economic development strategies, promoting business retention and expansion, identifying new business opportunities, and managing relationships with partners. Candidate should have a strong understanding of economic development principles, excellent communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and business owners.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
· Develops and implements short and long term economic development goals
· Identifies and responds to market tends in real estate and land use
· Facilitates business retention and expansion efforts
· Oversees the update of the Passaic County Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) to keep it aligned with goals
· Initiates and manages planning studies related to the business community
· Creates social media marketing materials
· Secures funding for economic development projects through grants and other resources
· Knowledge of state and federal grant requirements and reporting
· Builds and maintains relationships with external partners, such as investors, developers, colleges, universities, and government agencies
· Knowledge of NJEDA; HMFA; USSBA; NJDOL; USEDA; and financial institution programs
· Organizes and runs in-person and virtual workshops for the business community
· Coordinates activities with local municipal economic committees, Special Improvement Districts, Chamber of Commerce, and Urban Enterprise Zones
· Manages the Passaic County Brownfields Commission and possess a thorough knowledge of environmental issues and programs available for the business community and municipalities.
· Works with Passaic County Historic & Cultural Affairs, NJ Highlands Council, National Park Service and the state to promote and coordinate tourism
Qualifications: Minimum (3) years of experience in public administration, planning, economic or community development, or a related field.
Educational Requirements:
Must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in economics, business administration, public administration, urban planning or related field. Master’s degree is preferred.
About Passaic County Department of Planning & Economic Development
The Planning and Economic Development Department serves as the staff resource for the Board of County Commissioners, the Passaic County Planning Board, Passaic County Agriculture Development Board, and the Open Space, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Advisory Committee. Planning and Economic Development also administers the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
The department facilitates the development and redevelopment of communities that offer citizens a high quality of life by meeting their needs for employment, affordable housing, efficient transportation, and access to leisure, recreational and cultural opportunities. The department provides a process that assists citizens and community leaders in directing future changes in the county.
