Director of Planning and Economic Development – Thornton

Thornton is the 6th largest city in Colorado and benefits from its proximity to downtown Denver, Denver International Airport, and the foothills of the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Thornton has a diverse population of just over 153,000 people and is expected to grow by another 90,000 people in the next 30 years. While early development in Thornton was primarily residential, it has become a destination for primary employers and regional retail.

The City’s Comprehensive Plan, recent development code update and several key projects will invite greater density and additional mixed uses to build on Thornton’s already high quality of life.

The Director of Planning and Economic Development:

• Leads, directs, and manages the planning, development review, and business support activities to create sustainable growth with robust community engagement.
• Provides strategic leadership to link long‑range planning with purposeful development to create a vibrant community.
• Implements the approved strategic workplan and addresses the city priorities through thoughtful leadership and policies.

The Planning and Economic Development Director will report to a newly created Assistant City Manager for Quality of Life and Development along with the Parks and Recreation and Community Programs Departments. With the new director will come a consolidation of the Planning and Development Services Department with the Office of Economic Development to create the new, more comprehensive department. The Director and members of the Planning and Economic Development Team work with other departments to strengthen the City’s capacity to engage residents and developers in meaningful ways across all City programs.

Requirements for this position include a Bachelor’s degree in planning or related field from an accredited college or university and eight years’ management‑level experience in community development or related field, including five years of supervisory experience. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. American Institute of Certified Planners designation is preferred. The candidate will have successfully served in or will demonstrate strong familiarity with the Council‑Manager form of government.

Successful candidates will also have a proven record of leadership, fiscal stewardship, innovation, and relationship‑building.

The City of Thornton offers a competitive salary range of $182,914-$241,446 annually commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Please apply online at:

For more information on this position, contact:

Marsha Reed, Senior Vice President, Executive Recruitment

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