Director of Community Development; Martinsville, VA

Director of Community Development (Martinsville, VA)

FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports To: City Manager
Department: Community Development
Salary Range: DOQ (MINIMUM ANNUAL SALARY $106,049)
Revised: 12/5/2025

The Director of Community Development provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for Martinsville’s planning, zoning, neighborhood development, code enforcement, inspections, and community revitalization initiatives. This position plays a central role in shaping Martinsville’s long‑term growth, economic vitality, and overall quality of life. The Director oversees a multidisciplinary team, manages departmental budgets, collaborates with regional partners, and ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

The position requires a forward‑thinking leader who is committed to transparency, customer service, and community engagement.

• Provide administrative and strategic leadership for all Community Development functions, including Planning & Zoning, Building Inspections, GIS, Community Improvement, and related programs.
• Develop and implement plans, policies, and programs that support sustainable growth, neighborhood revitalization, and community well‑being.
• Oversee the development of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, and other long‑range planning documents.
• Manage building and property maintenance code enforcement; ensure the proper issuance of permits, inspections, and compliance activities.
• Coordinate community redevelopment initiatives, including blight abatement, housing rehabilitation, redevelopment area plans, and grant‑funded projects.
• Administer state and federal programs such as CDBG, HOME, and other housing or revitalization grants; manage all project reporting and compliance.
• Serve as staff liaison to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Architectural Review Board, EDA Board, and other appointed bodies.
• Work closely with economic development, public works, utilities, public safety, and other departments to ensure coordinated development review and project implementation.
• Prepare and manage the department’s annual budget; monitor expenditures and ensure effective use of resources.
• Maintain strong working relationships with community stakeholders, business leaders, developers, nonprofit partners, regional planning agencies, and citizens.
• Provide training, supervision, and performance evaluation for departmental staff.
• Prepare clear, accurate reports and presentations for the City Manager, City Council, and advisory boards.
• Ensure timely, customer‑service‑oriented permitting, zoning, and development review processes.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

• Comprehensive knowledge of municipal planning, zoning administration, community development principles, and building code enforcement.
• Strong understanding of land use law, zoning best practices, and federal/state regulatory frameworks.
• Skills in strategic planning, project management, and overseeing complex development projects.
• Ability to interpret and apply zoning ordinances, building codes, and development regulations.
• Proficiency in GIS applications, development review software, and data‑driven decision making.
• Excellent communication skills, including public speaking, report writing, and presentation to elected officials and community groups.
• Ability to build positive relationships, balance competing interests, and facilitate community consensus.
• Leadership skills that promote teamwork, accountability, and professional development.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Geography, Architecture, Engineering, or related field required.
• Master’s degree in Planning, Public Administration, or related discipline preferred.
• Five (5) or more years of progressively responsible experience in planning, community development, or local government administration, including supervisory experience.
• AICP certification preferred or the ability to obtain within two years of employment.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license or ability to obtain one within six months.

• Work is primarily performed in an office environment with periodic field visits to active construction sites, neighborhoods, and redevelopment areas.
• Occasional attendance at evening meetings is required.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and navigate uneven terrain during field inspections.

Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2026.

Department:
Community Development. This is a management position. This is a full‑time position.