Strategic Economic Development Lead

City of Elkhart, Indiana; Elkhart (IN); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Elkhart, Indiana is seeking an Assistant Director for Economic Development to lead the city’s economic growth efforts. The role focuses on retaining existing businesses, expanding opportunities, and coordinating financing programs, incentives, and partnerships with local and regional entities.

The position requires a solid understanding of public sector financing, policy development, and stakeholder engagement to drive redevelopment and job creation across the community.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a 4-year college degree; graduate degree preferred.
• Strong proposal writing and grant management experience.
• Experience in economic development financing and public incentives.
• Ability to analyze complex financial information and prepare recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement economic development policies and programs for the City of Elkhart.
• Cultivate relationships with regional businesses, government entities and media.
• Assess and propose use of public incentives for projects; prepare feasibility analyses.
• Coordinate with state/local groups to attract investment and jobs.
• Prepare RFPs and manage funding participation and reporting.
• Support redevelopment efforts for brownfields and urban districts.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder relations

Grant writing

Financial analysis

Policy development

Research

Education

Bachelor's degree in Economics/Public Administration

Master's degree preferred

Job description

City of Elkhart, Indiana is seeking an Assistant Director for Economic Development to lead the city’s economic growth efforts. The role focuses on retaining existing businesses, expanding opportunities, and coordinating financing programs, incentives, and partnerships with local and regional entities.

The position requires a solid understanding of public sector financing, policy development, and stakeholder engagement to drive redevelopment and job creation across the community.