Director of Business Development

The Director of Business Development is responsible for promoting business and economic development throughout the City of Syracuse through the attraction of new businesses and the retention and expansion of existing businesses. The Director oversees the Division of Business Development, including the day-to-day management of Division activities and supervision, coaching, and evaluation of staff.

The Director works closely with the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner of Business Development, City departments, and local, regional, State, and Federal partners to advance economic development priorities. Responsibilities include strategic planning and implementation; project analysis; business and developer assistance; development and administration of economic development programs; identification and delivery of incentives and other resources; grant and funding coordination; and support of local development corporations and public authorities.

The Director develops and maintains relationships with businesses, developers, property owners, economic development organizations, real estate professionals, governmental agencies, and community stakeholders. The position represents and advocates for the City's economic development interests and provides information and presentations to public officials, boards, commissions, civic groups, businesses, and the general public.

The work is performed under the general supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Business Development. Certain assignments require reliable access to transportation to meet fieldwork requirements in a timely and efficient manner. The incumbent performs related work as required.

Strategic Planning and Economic Development:

• Supports the development and implementation of strategic plans, studies, reports, and recommendations to advance the Administration's and City's economic development goals.
• Directs and coordinates economic development initiatives, including business attraction, retention, expansion, small business support, and real estate development.
• Provides economic development advice; analyzes projects and investment opportunities; assists with applications, permitting, and project coordination; and advocates for economic development consistent with City policies, ordinances, and goals.
• Assists in the design, development, launch, and implementation of economic development programs.
• Monitors legislation, regulations, and economic trends affecting City initiatives and advises appropriate parties of relevant developments.

Resources, Incentives, and Projects:

• Maintains and provides information regarding property and development sites, zoning, taxes, utilities, transportation, financing, incentives, economic indicators, capital, technical assistance, and other resources supporting business and development activity.
• Evaluates projects and assists with the development and delivery of incentives and other tools designed to encourage business investment and development.
• Coordinates grant and funding proposals, applications, contracts, agreements, and related documentation.
• Assists with professional service contracts, property transactions, public-private partnerships, and other economic development negotiations, as assigned.
• Provides administrative support to local development corporations and public authorities, including budget preparation, expenditure monitoring, financial reporting, and required State reporting.

Partnerships and Community Relations:

• Builds and maintains effective relationships with businesses, developers, property owners, real estate professionals, economic development organizations, governmental agencies, community organizations, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinates economic development…