Economic Development Director

Montgomery Village Board; Illinois; On-site; USD 118,564 - 165,990; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

IMRF pension

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

The Montgomery Village Board is seeking an experienced Economic Development Director to lead economic growth and development initiatives. This role will focus on attracting investment, supporting businesses, and collaborating with various stakeholders to foster sustainable economic vitality.

Key responsibilities include managing economic services, developing community plans, and ensuring effective business engagement. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in economic development and substantial experience in the field.

Qualifications

• 10 years of experience in economic and community development or equivalent education/experience.
• Strong knowledge of zoning, planning, and development processes.
• Experience working with governmental agencies and community stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage economic development services and activities.
• Develop and implement economic and community development plans.
• Analyze economic conditions and present data-driven recommendations.
• Manage incentive programs and negotiate development agreements.

Skills

Zoning knowledge

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication skills

Marketing skills

Financial analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in economic or community development

CEcD certification

Tools

GIS tools

Job description

The Village of Montgomery is seeking an experienced, forward-thinking Economic Development Director to lead the Village’s economic growth, business engagement, and development initiatives. This position plays a central role in shaping Montgomery’s long-term economic vitality by attracting new commercial, industrial, and retail investment; supporting existing businesses; and advancing strategic development opportunities that strengthen the local economy.

The Economic Development Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and implementing a wide range of economic development functions, from business retention and recruitment to incentive program administration, research, planning, and project management. The Director works collaboratively with Village staff, elected and appointed officials, the Greater Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, business owners, developers, realtors, and community stakeholders to support sustainable growth and enhance the Village’s economic competitiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all economic development services and activities, including capital investment attraction, business retention and expansion, workforce development, and public-private partnerships.
• Develop and implement short- and long-term economic and community development plans; prepare studies, reports, and recommendations to advance Village goals.
• Provide professional guidance to businesses, developers, and stakeholders throughout the application, zoning, entitlement, and permitting processes.
• Analyze economic conditions, monitor trends, and present data-driven recommendations to the Village Administrator, Village Board, and Economic Development Committee.
• Maintain an updated inventory of available sites, buildings, and major employers; compile research and market data to support development opportunities.
• Conduct regular outreach to local businesses and provide monthly engagement updates summarizing needs, challenges, and opportunities.
• Manage incentive programs and negotiate development agreements that align project needs with Village interests.
• Support infrastructure development initiatives that facilitate business growth, including industrial parks, utilities, transportation, and redevelopment opportunities.
• Prepare grant proposals, applications, and contracts to support community services and infrastructure improvements.
• Represent the Village at community events, business networking functions, and evening meetings; maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and state partners.
• Promote ethical, transparent development practices and serve as a trusted, apolitical resource for the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in economic or community development, planning, or a related field.
• CEcD certification highly preferred.
• Ten years of professional experience in economic and community development, including administrative responsibility, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong knowledge of zoning, planning, municipal infrastructure, and development processes.
• Experience working with governmental agencies, elected officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders.
• Demonstrated success managing complex, time-sensitive, and high-profile projects.
• Proficiency with data collection, GIS tools, financial analysis, and development agreements.
• Excellent communication, marketing, analytical, and project management skills.

Salary & Benefits

This is an exempt-level position. The salary range is $118,564 - $165,990, with starting pay dependent on qualifications. The Village offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, IMRF pension, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

The Village of Montgomery is an Equal Opportunity Employer.