Economic Development Director

Hunter Hamilton; West Haven (CT); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Hunter Hamilton seeks a Director of Economic Development to lead initiatives that drive investment, business growth, and workforce opportunities. Reporting to executive city leadership, you will shape strategy, manage redevelopment efforts, and build strong public-private partnerships for long-term vitality.

You will oversee programs, incentives, and enterprise zones while coordinating with government agencies and stakeholders to align workforce outcomes with local business needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in related field.
• 5+ years of leadership experience.
• Experience managing complex projects and partnerships.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute economic development strategies and programs
• Lead business attraction, retention, and expansion initiatives
• Oversee redevelopment projects, incentive programs, and enterprise zones
• Manage grants, funding opportunities, and departmental budget
• Serve as liaison to government agencies, developers, and community stakeholders
• Align workforce initiatives with local business needs
• Supervise staff and provide program oversight

Skills

Leadership experience

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in economics, business, planning, public administration, or related field

Job description

About the Role

A progressive coastal municipality is seeking a Director of Economic Development to lead initiatives that drive investment, business growth, and workforce opportunities. Reporting to executive city leadership, this role shapes strategy, manages redevelopment efforts, and builds strong public-private partnerships to support long-term economic vitality.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute economic development strategies and programs
• Lead business attraction, retention, and expansion initiatives
• Oversee redevelopment projects, incentive programs, and enterprise zones
• Manage grants, funding opportunities, and departmental budget
• Serve as liaison to government agencies, developers, and community stakeholders
• Align workforce initiatives with local business needs
• Supervise staff and provide program oversight

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in economic development, business, planning, public administration, or related field
• ~5+ years of relevant leadership experience
• Proven success managing complex projects and partnerships
• Strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and analytical skills

Why This Opportunity

• High-visibility leadership role with direct executive access
• Opportunity to shape economic strategy and community impact
• Broad scope across policy, partnerships, and implementation