Director of Economic Development

Economic Development Director

This is an exciting opportunity to serve as the City of Heath's first Economic Development Director. This position plays a crucial role in shaping Heath's long-term prosperity by guiding transformative initiatives like the Towne Center Overlay District and The Reserve, where over 44 acres are owned by the Heath Economic Development and Municipal Benefits Corporations. Together, these projects will establish a vibrant commercial heart for the community—bringing high-quality retail, dining, professional services, and community spaces closer to home while strengthening the city's financial foundation.

Through strategic planning, relationship-building, and a clear vision for balanced growth, the Director ensures these developments not only enhance daily life for residents but also preserve the character that makes Heath special.

Organizational Relationships:

While reporting to the City Manager, this position works with the HEDC/HMBC to provide continual support and focus towards economic development within the City of Heath.

Essential Job Functions & Other Important Duties:

Strategic Planning & Leadership:

Develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Plan tailored to Heath's growth patterns, infrastructure capacity, and community expectations.

Identify and pursue opportunities for high-value commercial, retail, professional office, and mixed-use development that align with the city's long-term vision.

Provide professional economic insight and recommendations to the HEDC/HMBC, City Manager, and the governing body of the City.

Business Recruitment, Retention & Expansion:

Lead proactive efforts to recruit new businesses that complement Heath's market profile and meet community needs.

Create and manage a business retention and expansion (BRE) program to support existing local businesses.

Develop marketing materials, prospect packages, and presentations for use with developers and business prospects.

Development Facilitation & Project Management:

Manage relationships with commercial developers, site selectors, brokers, and investors.

Guide prospects through city processes, serving as a point of contact during zoning, permitting, and development review.

Evaluate proposed projects for economic impact, feasibility, and alignment with the community's expectations.

Incentive & Policy Administration:

Develop, negotiate, and manage economic development agreements, incentive packages, and public-private partnerships, ensuring compliance with state laws and local guidelines.

Prepare economic impact analyses, cost-benefit calculations, and performance reports.

Community & Regional Engagement:

Serve as the city's liaison to regional and state economic development organizations.

Build and maintain relationships with property owners, developers, employers, educational institutions, and community groups.

Represent the City at conferences, regional meetings, and community events.

Research, Reporting & Data Management:

Maintain up-to-date data on demographics, market trends, available sites, and economic indicators.

Prepare reports, briefing materials, and presentations for City Council and stakeholder groups.

Oversee updates to the city's economic development website, marketing channels, and property listings.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Direct experience with mixed-use / town center development.
• Proven background and understanding of commercial real estate development.
• Strong understanding of municipal economic development tools, Texas incentive laws, and development processes.
• Experience in negotiating developer agreements in a manner that achieves the project vision.
• Strong understanding of development agreements and public-private partnerships.
• Experience working directly with master developers, evaluating pro formas, finding mechanisms, and structuring complex projects.
• Proven ability to build strategic partnerships and work effectively with elected officials.
• Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage complex projects, multiple priorities, and sensitive political environments.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance economic growth with quality-of-life considerations.

Acceptable Experience and Training:

A bachelor's degree in Economic Development, Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field from an accredited institution is required. Additionally, a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in Economic Development or a related field is necessary. Preferred qualifications include 3 to 5 years of experience in real estate.

Certifications and Licenses

Required:

• Valid Texas driver's license.
• CEcD (Certified Economic Developer) or PCED (Professional Community & Economic Developer) preferred.
• Ability to obtain certification within a specified timeframe may be considered.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

Physical Abilities:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an…