HRA-EDA Executive Director

$54.45 to $71.70 DOQ.
Closing Date:
September 30, 2026

Job Location:

38871 7th Ave, North Branch, MN 55056

Performs complex work intended to develop the economy (e.g., increased revenue, new business starts, job creation and housing affordability) of the County; providing technical assistance to businesses; directing, administering, reviewing and evaluating department programs and operations, supervising and coordinating staff to remain accountable to housng and economic development goals, developing and implementing department budget, completing required reports, and compliance related work.

Work involves setting policies and goals under the direction of the HRA-EDA Board.

Supervision is exercised over all HRA-EDA personnel and contractors.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Markets the County for business development opportunities highlighting the advantages of doing business in Chisago County. Plans, coordinates, and facilitate development opportunities between cities, businesses, and county as requested.
• Serves as a resource and provides technical assistance to local units of government, community organizations, and new and existing businesses. Assistance may include, but is not limited to, locating financial assistance, finding site location options, financial planning, grants, and referrals of other specialized technical and financial lenders.
• Create relationships to monitor and ensure businesses are thriving and remain in Chisago County.
• Maintains a high level of local community involvement and provides coordination between all organizations including cities, townships, and chambers of commerce, economic development groups and local lenders in the areas of economic development and housing with the basic understanding that increasing the county’s economy will only occur through cooperation.
• Coordinates and administers Small Business Development Center (SBDC) assistance to small businesses and start-ups assisting with access to capital and loan packaging; financial analysis and assessment; cash flow management; general marketing and research; marketing plan development and business plan development.
• Develops and maintains a close working relationship with the County Board, Cities, and Townships, keeping them informed periodically of the activities of the HRA-EDA.
• Seeks opportunities that will enhance the economic vitality of Chisago County including researching, planning, and developing applicable economic development and housing programs which would benefit the county.
• Completes grant applications and administers successful grants relating to community and economic development.
• Develops and implements Tax Increment Financing, Tax Abatement and other tax incentive programs which may currently exist or be developed in the future.
• Prepares annual HRA-EDA budget and works with the HRA-EDA Board and County for levy approval.
• Oversees all necessary financial administration. Administers all fund expenditures based on HRA-EDA Board direction. Keeps complete and accurate records of all financial transactions and accounts. Works closely with HRA-EDA Office Administrator & Program Manager to ensure financial accountability.
• Supervises all agency staff, contractors, and consultants. Recommends hiring or other personnel changes in accordance with all HRA-EDA personnel policies.
• Prepares a one-year work program and periodic HRA-EDA annual reports.
• Oversees all HRA-EDA owned housing properties.

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to listen well. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with local units of government and community groups.
• Knowledge of management principles and supervisory methods and techniques.
• Ability to plan, coordinate and delegate work, and to supervise and evaluate the work of others.
• Experience in local government finance, including budgeting and financial management.
• Knowledge of data gathering, analysis and evaluation methods, and…