Downtown Revitalization & Economic Growth Lead

International Economic Development Council; Cornelius (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Cornelius seeks an innovative Economic Development Manager to lead initiatives strengthening the local economy and bringing the Downtown Master Plan to life. The role requires building collaborative relationships with business owners, developers, and government partners to drive sustainable growth from vision to implementation.

Ideal candidates will have 5–7 years in economic development, downtown development, or related fields, with a Bachelor's degree and a valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a closely related field.
• Master's degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead implementation of the Downtown Master Plan and comprehensive economic development strategy.
• Foster relationships with business owners, developers, property owners, investors, community organizations, and government partners.
• Support business retention, expansion, recruitment, and redevelopment initiatives.
• Coordinate downtown revitalization efforts including streetscape enhancements, public art, placemaking, branding, and marketing initiatives.
• Develop, prepare, and administer grant applications to secure funding for economic development and redevelopment projects.
• Manage downtown marketing efforts, special events, beautification projects, and community engagement initiatives.
• Coordinate the promotion of downtown, events, and economic development activities, etc. as appropriate.
• Serve as the Town's Main Street Program Manager should Cornelius receive NC Main Street designation.
• Identify and advance priority economic development sites and redevelopment opportunities.
• Collect, analyze, and present economic data, market trends, and development opportunities.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for the Town Board, advisory boards, stakeholders, and community groups.
• Collaborate across Town departments to implement strategic initiatives.

Skills

Relationship building

Strategic thinking

Project management

Written communication

Public outreach

Data analysis

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe Acrobat Pro

Job description

The Town of Cornelius seeks an innovative Economic Development Manager to lead initiatives strengthening the local economy and bringing the Downtown Master Plan to life. The role requires building collaborative relationships with business owners, developers, and government partners to drive sustainable growth from vision to implementation.

Ideal candidates will have 5–7 years in economic development, downtown development, or related fields, with a Bachelor's degree and a valid driver's license.