Director of Economic Development; U

Are you a visionary economic leader ready to make a transformative impact in an emerging and dynamic city? The City of San Bernardino is seeking a strategic and results-driven Director of Economic Development (U) to lead the city’s economic growth, attract new business, foster workforce opportunities, and maximize the value of the city’s real estate and community assets. This executive-level role offers a unique opportunity to shape the city’s economic future while collaborating directly with the City Manager, City Council, and a broad range of community and regional partners.

As a future member of our team, you’ll be joining a city with deep roots, cultural diversity, and exciting momentum. Located in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire, San Bernardino is the county seat and largest city in San Bernardino County, home to more than 222,000 residents. Its rich history — shaped by Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences — continues to inspire the city’s evolving identity.

San Bernardino offers access to major transit corridors, natural beauty, and a wide range of housing and lifestyle options. It’s a place where public service careers are supported by a strong sense of community and purpose — and where motivated professionals can grow, contribute, and be part of something meaningful.

The Economic Development Department is dedicated to fostering sustainable growth, innovation, and opportunity within the City of San Bernardino. Launched in 2024, the Department has rapidly expanded to include 13 talented team members across the Economic Development Division and the Real Property Division.

• Business Retention & Attraction – Developing strategies that support local businesses, generate jobs, and increase General Fund revenue.
• Marketing & Promotion – Highlighting the City’s assets through campaigns like Invest San Bernardino, social media engagement, and monthly e-newsletters reaching over 6,700 registered businesses.
• Grants & Funding – Administering programs that provide critical support to small businesses and nonprofits, awarding over $3 million in funding in the last two rounds.
• Workforce Development – Connecting residents to quality local jobs through career pathways, technical assistance, and apprenticeship programs.
• Real Property Management – Managing and optimizing City-owned assets, overseeing acquisitions, sales, leases, and strategic partnerships for commercial, industrial, and residential development.

• Shaping and executing economic development strategies that leverage the City’s assets and attract new investment.
• Managing real estate portfolios, negotiating agreements, and ensuring the fiscal integrity of development projects.
• Leading grant programs, public‑private partnerships, and workforce development initiatives.
• Representing the City in regional, state, and national economic development efforts.
• Supervising, mentoring, and developing a growing team committed to enhancing the City’s quality of life and economic vitality.

• Driving Strategic Growth:
  Leading initiatives to attract new industries, expand business retention efforts, and increase General Fund revenue.
• Optimizing City Assets:
  Managing and leveraging City-owned real estate, including commercial, industrial, and residential properties, for sustainable development.
• Fostering Public‑Private Partnerships:
  Building strong relationships with developers, businesses, regional agencies, and community organizations to secure investments and funding.
• Workforce Development:
  Expanding programs that connect residents to quality local jobs, including apprenticeships, career pathways, and training opportunities.
• Enhancing the City’s Image:
  Elevating San Bernardino’s reputation through marketing campaigns, community engagement, and strategic outreach.
• Navigating Political and Community Dynamics:
  Advising the City Manager and City Council while balancing diverse stakeholder interests in high‑visibility projects.

• Demonstrate executive-level experience in economic development, municipal finance, real estate, or redevelopment projects.
• Exhibit strong…