Community and Economic Specialist III - Grant Funded Position

Advanced professional level position in the community and economic development field under general supervision of the Community Development Manager or the Economic Development Planning Manager. Requires considerable knowledge of advanced federal policies, rules and the methods, and requirements of community and economic development, as well as the planning and development programs and services. Creates multi-jurisdictional development programs and projects, and provides the planning, analysis and support services necessary to promote economic development in Montgomery County.

Assists in the maintenance, development and coordination of resources for businesses of all sizes. Manages the economic development website and related marketing efforts; researches, proposes and implements economic development marketing strategies and tactics to promote economic development in Montgomery County. This includes evaluating potential for business revitalization and analyzing existing conditions and programs in targeted areas. Responds to site selector requests and business attraction projects;

manages the industrial/commercial property database; develops and maintains content for economic development social media accounts.

Creates, develops and implements funding programs that attract businesses to the County , including planning and preparing descriptions of proposed economic development project objectives, financing, schedules and estimated impacts on targeted areas. Develops and implements plans to establish or improve private business associations and community development corporations. Informs businesses of available incentives and services, provides support to individual businesses and associations, arranges for service provision, and recommends improvements and expansions to foster increased business activity.

Researches governmental and private funding sources , evaluates project suitability for targeted areas, and develops strategies for business attraction and retention. Conducts business retention and expansion activities to build and maintain relationships with the business community. Serves as a primary contact for businesses through in-person, e-mail, phone, and web interactions. Provides technical assistance to business organizations and supports promotional efforts.

Manages business attraction and development projects under the direction of the Manager. Plans, monitors and promotes economic and community development activities locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. Coordinates departmental events and activities when necessary. Visits project sites, attend meetings, and engages with business and community groups to discuss projects, gain support and gather feedback. Lead assigned Community & Economic Development Specialists I & II in project implementation.

Composes contract scopes of service and work programs, prepares project budgets, and monitors compliance throughout the contract term. Builds and maintains relationships with community partners and regional economic development entities, including Business First! for a Greater Dayton Region, , Montgomery County Workforce, Dayton Development Coalition, Jobs Ohio, local chambers of commerce, colleges, universities, and others. Reviews and negotiates project scopes and budgets with jurisdictions, ensures contract compliance with federal, state and local requirements, and oversees planning, implementation, and monitoring activities.

Acts as a consultant to boards, agencies and community organizations, providing expert advice to jurisdiction officials. Attends meetings of business associations or community groups, participates in boards and committees, analyzes legislation impacts and documents contract agency activities .

Utilizes customer relationship management programs, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and project management tools to ensure effective communication and collaboration with partners. Represents Montgomery County at high-profile functions and regional events, actively participating in regional economic development initiatives.

(Performs Related Duties as Required)

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or Community Planning or Public Administration or Urban Studies and four (4) years of related experience in economic development, community development, planning, and project management; OR alternative, equivalent evidence of the minimum class requirements.

Must maintain a current, valid United States driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.