Community and Economic Development Director

Company Description

The Green River Area Development District (GRADD) is a regional planning agency and council of governments serving the communities of Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster counties in Kentucky. GRADD provides support in aging, health, and social services; community and economic development; transportation planning; and workforce development. The organization’s mission is to offer local governments and residents a regional forum to identify issues and opportunities, and to lead in planning and implementing programs that enhance quality of life.

GRADD is headquartered at 300 GRADD Way in Owensboro, KY 42301 and collaborates closely with local partners to advance strategic initiatives across the region.

The Community and Economic Development Director is a full-time, on-site role based in the Greater Owensboro Area. This role leads the development, coordination, and implementation of community and economic development projects across GRADD’s member counties, including planning initiatives, grant programs, and strategic investments. Day-to-day responsibilities include working with local governments and stakeholders to identify needs, prepare and manage project proposals, oversee program budgets, and ensure compliance with funding and regulatory requirements.

The Director will analyze economic trends, prepare reports and presentations, support long-range planning efforts, and represent GRADD in regional meetings and public hearings. The role also involves supervising staff, fostering partnerships with public and private entities, and promoting initiatives that strengthen infrastructure, workforce, and community resilience.

• Strong foundation in Economic Development and Community Development, with experience leading regional or local initiatives.
• Knowledge of Public Administration and Budgeting, including grant management, program finance, and regulatory compliance.
• Background in Urban Planning or related planning disciplines, with skills in project design, land use, and infrastructure planning.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and relationship-building abilities with local governments, businesses, and community organizations.
• Demonstrated project management skills, including setting priorities, meeting deadlines, and supervising multidisciplinary teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Urban Planning, Economics, Political Science, Business, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Familiarity with federal and state funding programs, economic development tools, and rural or small-community development issues.
• Proficiency with office productivity software; experience with GIS or data analysis tools is a plus.