Economic Development Assistant Director

Mission Statement

To provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals. Employment decisions for the City of Cullman will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Equal opportunities are provided regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other characteristics protected by law. The City of Cullman will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with known disabilities.

Reports to: Director of Economic Development

Compensation: Full-Time / Salary (OT Exempt)

The Assistant Director supports the Executive Director in leading strategic economic development initiatives that enhance community growth, business retention, and quality of life in Cullman. This role assumes primary responsibility for retail recruitment and commercial development, while also contributing to organizational leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement.

• Assists the Director in planning, implementing, and evaluating agency programs, strategies, and initiatives.
• Serves as a representative of the agency in meetings, presentations, trade shows, conferences, and public-facing engagements as needed.
• Coordinates with local, regional, and State partners, including government entities, Chamber of Commerce, utilities, and educational institutions.
• Assists in the development of marketing materials, retail profiles, pitch decks, and digital content.
• Promotes Cullman’s assets, workforce advantages, quality of life, and retail trade area.
• Contributes to the development of marketing materials for CEDA such as magazine ads, giveaways, social media, and local newspaper ads.
• Assists with budgeting, reporting, and grant administration as assigned.
• Prepares, or assists in preparing, reports, presentations, grant applications, and economic impact analyses for internal use, elected officials, and community stakeholders.
• Plans and coordinates events and travel arrangements for Cullman EDA.

• Leads retail recruitment efforts by identifying target retailers and restaurants aligned with Cullman’s market potential and community goals.
• Analyzes market data, trade area demographics, leakage studies, and site potential to identify targets and positioning strategies.
• Serves as the primary contact for brokers, developers, retail consultants, and franchise groups.
• Conducts site visits, prospect tours, and project facilitation.
• Monitors retail trends, consumer dynamics, and competitive landscapes relevant to Cullman and North Alabama.
• Collaborates with city leadership, planning, and zoning officials to support retail-friendly development practices.
• Supports downtown, corridor, and commercial district revitalization initiatives.
• Identifies challenges or barriers to business growth and coordinates solutions with City and partner organizations.

• Reports monthly to the Cullman City Council and the Industrial Development Board of the City of Cullman.

• Bachelor’s degree in economic development, marketing, public relations, business, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in economic development, retail recruitment, commercial real estate, business development, or a related field.

• Strong written and verbal communication, relationship‑building, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to build effective relationships with business leaders, developers, government officials, and community partners.
• Familiarity with ESRI, Placer.ai, Retail Coach/REIS, or similar analytics platforms.
• Experience working with municipal governments, chambers, utilities, developers, and site consultants.
• Knowledge of retail market dynamics, commercial brokerage, or franchise development.
• Professional demeanor and strong interpersonal skills.
• Self‑motivated, detail‑oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Strategic thinker with operational follow‑through.
• High ethical standards and commitment to public service.
• Collaborative and team oriented.

This role includes regular meetings with private‑sector companies, travel to conferences and trade shows, occasional evening events, and property/community tours with prospects.