Economic Development Program Manager

General Description

Under limited supervision, the Economic Development Program Manager primarily performs administrative and strategic functions directly related to the management and general business operations of Orangeburg County’s economic development mission. The position exercises independent judgment and discretion on matters of significance, including formulation and implementation of procedures, policies, and strategies that advance organizational and countywide goals. This position serves as a key advisor and liaison to internal leadership, external partners, and the Orangeburg County Development Commission, contributing to long-range planning, operational policy development, and strategic resource allocation.

• Develop and deliver strategic recommendations, presentations, and proposals to senior leadership and prospective investors.
• Lead planning and execution of prospect site visits, including coordination of stakeholders, development of itineraries, and preparation of strategic materials.
• Design and lead initiatives that promote targeted business recruitment and retention strategies.
• Determine messaging strategy and positioning for marketing collateral aligned with long‑range economic development plans.
• Collaborate with staff and partners to develop and refine marketing collateral aligned with economic development goals.
• Conduct high‑level analysis of economic and industry data to inform policy and investment priorities.
• Prepare written communications, reports, and promotional content that support departmental initiatives.

• Serve as system manager and final departmental authority for the CRM platform, including establishing data governance standards, access controls, and reporting policies. Design and implement dashboards, workflows, and reporting tools to support performance tracking of strategic initiatives.
• Develop metrics and models to evaluate program effectiveness, formulate conclusions, and recommend strategic adjustments to leadership.

• Support financial oversight by monitoring budget activity, tracking expenditures, and assisting with financial reporting processes.
• Direct coordination of board and committee activities, including development of agendas, preparation of materials, and documentation of official actions.
• Establish and implement internal processes to ensure compliance with public meeting laws, procurement regulations, and organizational policies.
• Supervise administrative workflows and recommend procedural improvements to enhance departmental performance.
• Exercise independent judgment and discretion in developing and recommending policies, procedures, priorities, and strategies related to economic development operations.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, exercising discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment in communications.

• Develop and approve event strategies, budgets, and resource allocations for major public‑facing initiatives, ensuring alignment with economic development branding, stakeholder objectives, and county priorities.
• Plan and authorize event strategy and resource allocation for major public‑facing events that promote Orangeburg County’s image as a premier location.
• Coordinate with community partners, businesses, and public officials to advance economic development initiatives and strengthen stakeholder relationships.
• Represent the organization in meetings and events as appropriate, supporting outreach and engagement efforts.

• Perform other related duties and related work as instructed and assigned.

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Marketing, Communications, Accounting, or a related field preferred.
• Demonstrated experience exercising independent judgment in administrative or project management functions that significantly impact organizational operations.
• Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience…