Economic Development Specialist

About Us: North River Commission (NRC) is dedicated to fostering economic growth and sustainability within our community. We are committed to enhancing the wellbeing of our diverse community through collaboration, engagement, and coalition-building. We strive to create a vibrant, thriving economy that benefits all residents and businesses. As we expand our efforts, we are seeking a motivated and experienced Economic Development Specialist to join our team. Our office is located in Albany Park, one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city. The NRC service area covers a large chunk of Chicago’s northwest side, starting from the Chicago River on the east to Cicero Ave on the west, from Devon on the north and to Addison Ave on the south. NRC is also the sole service provider for Special Service Area #60 (SSA 60) which covers the commercial corridors of Albany Park and Irving Park..

Position Overview: The Economic Development Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting and implementing economic development strategies and initiatives within the NRC service areas. This role involves working closely with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations to promote economic growth, enhance business opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life in the NRC service area. NRC’s economic development work, and all of its work, is centered on equity and social justice. Our work creates equity, opportunity, and prosperity for all. 

As part of the economic development work will include housing initiatives, including affordable housing and senior housing developments, building relationships with landlords and property owners, as well as tenants. This role will also carry out duties and programs for the SSA 60 and coordinate meetings with commissioners on a monthly basis. 

Key Responsibilities:

Business Support and Outreach:

• Act as a point of contact for local businesses, providing support and resources as an agent of the Chicago Business Center and the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce. 
• Facilitate business expansion and retention efforts by addressing concerns and identifying opportunities.
• Organize and participate in events, workshops, and meetings to promote business development.
• Consult with business owners at all stages of development and growth, including assistance with business formation, access to capital, site selection, build out, permits
• Facilitate and plan networking events with other business owners 
• Collaborate and regularly communicate with team members and other departments to discuss opportunities to engage business owners with other community stakeholders.

Project Management:

• Coordinate and manage economic development projects from inception to completion.
• Assist business owners with applying for SSA programs such as the façade rebate program and security camera program 
• Monitor project progress and ensure timely delivery of outcomes.
• Prepare and submit required monthly reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Vendor Management

• Maintain communication and build relationships with SSA and business vendors 
• Keep track of vendor deliverables and services including litter pickup, snow removal, and maintenance of trash cans and bike racks.
• Ensure vendor invoices are paid on a timely basis

Community Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, organizations, and businesses.
• Engage with the public to gather input and feedback on economic development initiatives.
• Advocate for policies and programs that support economic growth and sustainability.
• Facilitate Economic Development committee meetings and work closely with the committee chair. 

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Regularly report project updates, activities, and relevant matters to the Executive Director
• Collect, analyze, and interpret economic data to support decision-making processes.
• Prepare and present reports on economic development activities, outcomes, and performance metrics.
• Track and evaluate the impact of development programs and projects.
• Provide thorough, accurate and timely financial and monthly program performance reporting to the Business Affairs and Consumer Protection agency at the city of Chicago. 

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field preferred
• Minimum of [3] years of experience in economic development, business development, working with businesses, and related areas
• Budget and Vendor Management Experience
• Strong understanding of economic development principles, practices, and trends.
• Proven ability to manage projects, work with diverse stakeholders, and achieve results.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with data analysis tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment.
• Experience in community engagement and outreach.
• Experience working with city of Chicago contracts and budgets is a plus.
• Knowledge of marketing including email marketing and social media is a plus. 

Desired Attributes:

• Innovative thinking with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Versatile and adaptable interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle multiple priorities and manage time effectively in a deadline-driven environment.
• Passion for community development and economic growth.
• Effective time management skills
• Friendly, collaborative, and willingness to work closely with a team 
• Ability to speak another language is a plus (including but not limited to Spanish, Tagalog, Polish, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, Chinese)
• Experience in and knowledge of Albany Park, Irving Park and North Park Community Areas is a plus

Salary Details:

Salary is commensurate with work experience and includes excellent health and dental benefits. 

Position is open until filled. This is a salaried position and begins at $62,000/yr

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and at least 2 professional references to jobs@northrivercommission.org. Please include “Economic Development Coordinator Application” in the subject line of your email and direct email to Kay Villamin, Executive Director.

North River Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.