Executive Director, Economic Development & Trade

State of Colorado; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PERA retirement benefits

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Disability coverage

Life and AD&D Insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts

PFML benefits

Paid holidays and leave

Employee discounts

Job summary

State of Colorado, Office of Economic Development and International Trade, seeks an Executive Director to lead the agency and report to the Governor’s Cabinet. You will guide strategy, programs, and the budget to foster job growth and a strong business climate across Colorado.

The role requires a proven track record in economic development, public-private partnerships, stakeholder engagement, and statewide economic policy leadership. Strong communication and executive management are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in business, economics, finance, law, public administration, or related field.
• At least 10 years of leadership experience in economic development, business, finance, or public administration.
• 5+ years of executive management and budget oversight experience.
• Experience building relationships with diverse stakeholders and leading public-private initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and guide the office’s operations, programs, and budgets to meet strategic objectives.
• Direct business attraction, retention, and expansion across Colorado.
• Lead rural economic development efforts and incentive analyses.
• Develop international trade and export initiatives and foreign investment strategy.
• Advise the Governor and General Assembly on economic policy issues.
• Foster partnerships with chambers, local EDOs, and private sector partners.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Change management

Stakeholder engagement

Public policy

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or advanced degree in business, economics, finance, law, public administration, or related field

Job description

State of Colorado, Office of Economic Development and International Trade, seeks an Executive Director to lead the agency and report to the Governor’s Cabinet. You will guide strategy, programs, and the budget to foster job growth and a strong business climate across Colorado.

The role requires a proven track record in economic development, public-private partnerships, stakeholder engagement, and statewide economic policy leadership. Strong communication and executive management are essential.