Senior Vice President of Economic Development

Austin, Texas

THE POSITION

A leading economic development organization in the United States, is dedicated to promoting prosperity in a five-county region. The Economic Development team consists of industry recruitment, business retention & expansion, research, and administrative operations. The team collaborates with other departments on shared initiatives.

The Senior Vice President (SVP) of Economic Development will lead overall economic development strategy, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, processes, and desired outcomes. This role involves overseeing traditional economic "deal-making" activities, including attraction, retention, expansion, and creation of new business opportunities. The SVP will also provide support to other departments as needed.

Essential Functions

Corporate Business Recruitment, Business Development

• Develop and execute an aggressive, proactive business development strategy to attract qualified companies and industries.
• Plan, implement, and oversee economic development programs focused on major business sectors, including market evaluation and ecosystem development.
• Collaborate with staff to create an efficient process, including inquiry responses, proposal development, site tours, project management, and deal closure.
• Implement and manage a comprehensive business retention and expansion program, leveraging resources from surrounding municipalities and regional partners.
• Support business intelligence efforts by researching, collecting, and analyzing data to enhance lead generation, prospecting, and location proposals, as well as conducting comparative location analysis of peer and best-in-class markets, particularly those with similar industry clusters.
• Foster and maintain strong relationships with key partners, including site selection consultants, the Texas Governor's Office of Economic Development, utilities, and regional economic development organizations.
  
  

Management

• Provide inspirational, effective leadership in building and maintaining a high performing team in support of goals.
• Develop and manage the department's financial budget, aligning with organizational objectives.
• Regularly review and evaluate strategies to ensure optimal outcomes for company’s economic development efforts.
  
  

Leadership

• Work as part of the senior executive team, collaborating with the President/CEO to support operational activities across all divisions.
• Help set organizational priorities and provide leadership and support to other senior staff members.
• Coordinate a complex network of economic development entities at the state and municipal levels.
• Represent organization at special functions, deliver speeches, and contribute to achieving business development goals.
• Participate in media and public relations activities as part of strategic outreach.
• Perform additional duties as required.
  
  

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is a plus but not required; a master’s degree in economics, planning, business, or public administration is a plus.
• Professional certification in economic development or a related field is desirable.
• 10 years of extensive experience in regional economic development is required
• Proven track record managing teams.
• Experience with regional partnerships a plus.
  
  

Competency Statements:

• Proven leadership, management, and motivational skills.
• Ability to develop and execute strategic plans, providing a clear vision for the region and economic development program.
• Strong ability to cultivate relationships with business executives and stakeholders.
• Excellent presentation and written communication skills.
• Skilled in navigating the dynamics of diverse business and political leadership in the region.
• Proficient in performance-based measurement and outcome-driven strategies.
• Creative and innovative thinker with a track record of generating new ideas.
• Energetic, enthusiastic, and outgoing.
• Collaborative team player, able to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment.
• Ability to inspire excitement, involvement, and commitment to the region.