Director of Economic Development

The City of Heath, Texas, is seeking an experienced, strategic, and community-focused Director of Economic Development to work directly with the Heath Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) and Heath Municipal Benefits Corporation (HMBC) in leading the City’s efforts to attract, retain, and expand high-quality commercial and mixed‑use development. This position plays a critical role in shaping Heath’s long‑term economic vitality while preserving the community’s high standards, small‑town character, and exceptional quality of life.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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.…