Strategic Economic Development Director

Gurnee, Village of (IL); Gurnee (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The Village of Gurnee is seeking an experienced Economic Development Director to lead strategic efforts for business attraction, retention, and redevelopment. The role requires building strong relationships with developers, investors, and regional partners while guiding incentive programs and partnerships to advance the community’s economic goals.

Ideal candidates will bring a proactive, results-driven approach, familiarity with municipal processes, and the ability to coordinate across Village

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in a relevant field (Economic Development, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Marketing, Finance).
• Master’s degree preferred in a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, redevelopment, planning, business development, municipal administration, or a related field.
• Municipal or public sector experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements short- and long-range economic development strategies focused on business attraction, retention, expansion, and redevelopment.
• Serves as primary liaison to existing businesses, developers, brokers, investors, and regional economic development organizations.
• Coordinates redevelopment and revitalization efforts for commercial, retail, industrial, and mixed-use properties.
• Leads business retention and expansion outreach, responds to inquiries and development opportunities.
• Develops and administers incentive programs, redevelopment agreements, and public-private partnerships.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, or a closely related field

Master’s degree in a related field preferred

Job description

The Village of Gurnee is seeking an experienced Economic Development Director to lead strategic efforts for business attraction, retention, and redevelopment. The role requires building strong relationships with developers, investors, and regional partners while guiding incentive programs and partnerships to advance the community’s economic goals.

Ideal candidates will bring a proactive, results-driven approach, familiarity with municipal processes, and the ability to coordinate across Village