Director of Development Services

Sartell; Sartell (MN); On-site; USD 116,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Sartell seeks a high-energy Development Director who can lead a small, capable team and turn ideas into action across growing initiatives like Niron Magnetics, Mill District redevelopment, and the Central Minnesota Healthcare Hub.

Beyond a traditional planning background, the ideal candidate brings leadership, integrity, strong communication, and a knack for building partnerships to attract investment and guide complex projects to completion.

Qualifications

• Requires leadership experience in economic development, business development, or related fields.
• Strong communication skills and ability to build partnerships.
• Proven ability to guide complex development projects to completion.

Responsibilities

• Lead a three-person Development Services team.
• Guide major development and redevelopment initiatives.
• Build partnerships to attract investment and turn ideas into action.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship building

Problem solving

Project management

Job description

Not your typical Development Director opportunity!

The City of Sartell is looking for a high-energy, people-centered leader who sees possibilities, builds relationships, solves problems, and brings the right people together to make great things happen!

With exciting projects underway, including Niron Magnetics, the Mill District redevelopment, and the Central Minnesota Healthcare Hub, this is an opportunity to help shape the future of one of Central Minnesota's growing communities.

We're looking beyond the traditional planning and community development background. Candidates with experience in economic development, business development, commercial real estate, engineering, law, project management, local government leadership, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Our ideal candidate is a strong leader and communicator who can guide a team, build partnerships, attract investment, navigate complex development projects, and turn ideas into action. Technical planning expertise is valuable, but leadership, integrity, relationships, and practical problem-solving are our highest priorities.

Position Highlights:

• Leadership role reporting directly to the City Administrator
• Opportunity to guide major development and redevelopment initiatives
• Lead a three-person Development Services team
• Competitive salary of $115,988-$158,796, depending on qualifications and experience

Recruitment Timeline:

Applications open November 12, 2026, and will remain open until filled. Initial application reviews are anticipated in December, with interviews beginning as early as December or January.