CEO​/President

Full-Time CEO/President at Emporia Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas, Inc. Available Openings: 1 Posted Date:
September 21, 2026 Apply By:
March 22, 2027

Pay Type:

Salary Compensation:
The position offers a competitive minimum base salary of $150,000 (commensurate with experience), a performance bonus based on achievement of goals and objectives, and a comprehensive benefits package. Relocation assistance may be available. Education Level: Bachelor's Degree

Established in 1994, the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas, Inc. (RDA) serves as
the lead economic development organization for Emporia and the communities within Lyon County,
Kansas. With over $1 billion in capital investments and the creation of 2,800 jobs since its founding, the
RDA has a proven track record of fostering a pro-business climate. In collaborates with partners such as
Emporia State University, Flint Hills Technical College, Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, Main Street,
Emporia Enterprises, and City and County government agencies, the RDA leverages its resources to
ensure long-term economic success for the region. Key services include industrial site development,
workforce development support, securing state and federal incentives, business retention, and support
for entrepreneurship and land acquisition.

The RDA seeks a visionary, results-driven leader to serve as its CEO/President. This individual will guide the organization in advancing economic growth, fostering business expansion, and cultivating community partnerships to enhance the quality of life, resulting in job creation, population and income growth, and long-term tax base stabilization for Emporia and Lyon County. As a working executive, the CEO/President will report to the Board of Directors and lead the organization in developing and implementing strategies that align with RDA’s mission to proactively promote economic growth through commercial and industrial recruitment, workforce training enhancements, and the retention and expansion of existing businesses.

The successful CEO/President will be a strategic visionary with exceptional tactical execution skills, willing to “roll up their sleeves” and contribute as part of the team.

Candidates will be checked extensively for background and references. Once a strong mutual interest has been established, candidates are asked to provide a list of references that should include, but not be limited to, a supervisor, a peer, a development client, and a subordinate, as applicable. Candidates will be asked to sign an authorization to release information for the purpose of the background investigation, which will include education, social media background, credit check, criminal, and driving records.

Should an offer be extended before the completion of these checks, the offer will be made contingent.

Candidate confidentiality will be maintained throughout the recruitment process.

RDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

Organizational Leadership

• Develop and implement strategic goals that align with the RDA's mission.
• Act as the primary spokesperson for the RDA and the lead advocate to develop and implement the community’s economic vision.
• Foster an organizational culture focused on trust, inclusion, accountability, agility, responsiveness, service excellence, innovation, and collaboration.

Economic Development

• Be the primary representative with the Kansas Department of Commerce, Site Selectors, and businesses considering our area to relocate to or for expansion of existing business.
• Proactively identify and pursue business attraction and expansion opportunities that will increase…