Chief Growth & Economic Strategy Officer

Avancer; Holland (MI); On-site; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Lakeshore Advantage in Michigan seeks a President & CEO to lead the organization through a five-year growth plan, attract and retain regional business, and strengthen the Lakeshore region’s competitiveness. The role requires strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and public speaking to serve as the region's external voice.

The CEO will guide the SURGE incubator and industrial cluster initiatives, collaborate with municipal and state partners, and ensure alignment with core values and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and at least ten years of progressively responsible senior leadership experience, with a track record of success leading a complex organization.
• CEcD designation a plus and experience in economic development is desirable.
• Strong business acumen, strategic thinking, and project management skills.
• Proven ability to attract, retain, and develop staff and manage stakeholder relationships at multiple levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead execution of Lakeshore Advantage's five-year strategic growth plan across workforce, employers, and startups.
• Set and steward EOS Vision/Traction Organizer, Core Values, Core Focus, and 10-Year Target with board and leadership.
• Deliver direct business attraction, expansion, and retention leadership for 600+ primary employers.
• Serve as the public voice for the region's economic future and advocate on public policy affecting business.
• Build and manage a high-performing, collaborative team and foster public-private partnerships.
• Represent Lakeshore Advantage on state, local, and nonprofit boards.

Skills

Leadership experience

Strategic planning

Public speaking

Board relations

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree

CEcD designation

Tools

EOS framework

Job description

Lakeshore Advantage in Michigan seeks a President & CEO to lead the organization through a five-year growth plan, attract and retain regional business, and strengthen the Lakeshore region’s competitiveness. The role requires strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and public speaking to serve as the region's external voice.

The CEO will guide the SURGE incubator and industrial cluster initiatives, collaborate with municipal and state partners, and ensure alignment with core values and