Economic Development & Finance Manager

City of Gardner, MA; Gardner (MA); On-site; USD 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Gardner is seeking an Economic Development & Finance Manager who will perform professional, administrative, and technical work in economic development and financial management. Key responsibilities include attracting and retaining business, managing financial records, administering grants, and supporting housing rehabilitation projects. Candidates should possess a relevant degree and have substantial professional experience, particularly in economic development and grant administration.

Qualifications

• At least five years of professional experience in economic development or financial management.
• Experience in grant writing and administration.
• Experience in commercial leasing or real estate contract negotiation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic plans for business attraction and retention.
• Manage financial records and prepare monthly financial reports.
• Administer housing rehabilitation projects and ensure compliance with program requirements.

Skills

Grant writing

Financial management

Economic development

Public relations

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration

Bachelor’s degree in economic development

Bachelor’s degree in urban planning

Bachelor’s degree in accounting

Job description

General Municipal Employees

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Economic Development & Finance Manager

The Economic Development and Finance Manager performs professional, administrative, and technical work in both economic development and financial management. This role is responsible for attracting and retaining business and industry within the City, managing related financial records and reporting, administering grants, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and program requirements. The position also assists with the administration of the City’s housing rehabilitation program and supports the Director of Community Development and Planning in various activities to foster economic growth and community development.

Economic Development

• Develops and implements strategic plans for business attraction and retention within the City.
• Coordinates with local organizations and agencies (e.g., Chamber of Commerce, regional planning commissions) to promote and assist businesses.
• Manages the Gardner Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund, including the preparation and submission of grant applications and quarterly reports
• Conducts business outreach and site tours, providing presentations to promote the City of Gardner.
• Identifies, applies for, and manages economic development grants and funding programs.
• Maintains the City’s Economic Development website, ensuring timely updates and accuracy.
  
  

Financial Administration

• Maintains all financial records, including daily journals, general ledgers, and bank reconciliations.
• Prepare monthly financial reports and documentation for the Director of Community Development and Planning.
• Coordinates with other city departments (Auditor, Treasurer) to reconcile accounts and prepare drawdown forms.
• Supports housing rehabilitation programs, including maintaining accurate financial records, assisting in client intake, and monitoring project compliance.
• Assists in grant preparation and administration for the housing rehabilitation program.
• Ensures compliance with all reporting requirements for state and federal programs.
  
  

Housing Rehabilitation Program

• Provides daily administration of housing rehabilitation projects, ensuring smooth processing of applications and compliance with program requirements.
• Assists property owners in understanding program eligibility and coordinates with contractors to meet rehabilitation needs.
• Monitors contract work and performs inspections to ensure program standards are met.
• Assists in preparing discharges and subordinations for homeowners who have previously participated in the housing program.
  
  

General Responsibilities

• Attends and participates in meetings with state, regional, and federal officials and other stakeholders.
• Responds to inquiries from businesses and the public regarding economic development opportunities and financial assistance programs.
• Performs other duties as directed by the Director to support the objectives of the Department of Community Development and Planning.
  
  

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration, economic development, urban planning, accounting, or a closely related field is preferred; however, equivalent professional experience will be considered in lieu of formal education. At least five years of professional experience in economic development, financial management, or a closely related field, with specific experience in grant writing and administration. Experience in commercial leasing, real estate contract negotiation, or related areas is a plus.

Special Requirements

Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license.

Miscellaneous Information

If you are interested and qualified, please submit an application to: Amanda Morse, Director of Human Resources, City of Gardner, 95 Pleasant Street, Rm. 226, Gardner, MA 01440 or via email to [e-mail] The City of Gardner is an AA/EEO employer and seeks diversity in its workforce.

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Job Details

Category General Municipal Employees Status Open Salary $85,000/annually For a list of employee benefits, click the link; https://www.gardner-ma.gov/1454/Employee-Benefits Posted June 6, 2025 8:00 AM Closing Open Until Filled

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