Economic Development Deputy Director: Growth & Strategy

Arizona Association for Economic Development; Gilbert (AZ); On-site; USD 126,000 - 158,000; Full time

Job summary

Town of Gilbert is seeking an Economic Development Deputy Director to lead the Office of Economic Development's Business Attraction, Retention/Expansion, and Marketing & Communications programs.

The role reports to the Economic Development Director and involves negotiating development agreements, supervising a team of ED professionals, briefing Town leadership, and shaping annual work plans plus project pipelines. Strong strategic leadership is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business, Public Administration, Redevelopment, Urban Planning, Economic Development, Real Estate, or a closely related field.
• 7 years of experience in economic development, including attraction, retention, and expansion, redevelopment, or marketing.
• Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) or similar industry‑specific professional certification, preferred
• Valid Arizona Driver’s License

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct the Business Attraction, Business Retention/Expansion, and Marketing & Communications program areas for the Office of Economic Development.
• Negotiate development agreements between the Town, developers, and corporate partners on projects involving financial support.
• Supervise and support a team of economic development professionals, assigning and reviewing their work.
• Advise Town management, the Mayor, and Council on economic development initiatives through written reports and in-person briefings.
• Build annual work plans and manage project schedules and the department’s lead and project pipeline.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business, Public Administration, Redevelopment, Urban Planning, Economic Development, Real Estate, or a closely related field

Job description

Town of Gilbert is seeking an Economic Development Deputy Director to lead the Office of Economic Development's Business Attraction, Retention/Expansion, and Marketing & Communications programs.

The role reports to the Economic Development Director and involves negotiating development agreements, supervising a team of ED professionals, briefing Town leadership, and shaping annual work plans plus project pipelines. Strong strategic leadership is essential.