Economic Development Manager; A267510-1 Administration

Overview

To manage and administer economic development programs that promote investment, job creation, and business expansion within the City. Oversees state and federal incentive programs, grant development, and contract compliance while providing strategic guidance, drafting legal documents, and presenting economic initiatives to City leadership. Supports departmental operations and assumes management responsibilities in the absence of the Department Director and Assistant Director.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job‑related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Oversees and evaluates state and federal programs supporting small business development, workforce expansion, and job creation.
• Ensures alignment with City strategic objectives, develops program improvements, and coordinates with internal and external partners to optimize program deliverables.
• Prepares and evaluates contracts, incentive agreements, MOUs, professional service agreements, and other legally binding documents for accuracy and compliance prior to legal review.
• Ensures contract terms reflects City objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Identifies grant opportunities, performs research, drafts grant applications, and manages grant reporting for economic development projects.
• Coordinates with City departments and external entities to ensure grant requirements and timelines are met.
• Develops agenda items, supporting documents, and presentations for economic development programs, incentive agreements, and funding requests.
• Provides recommendations and presents program impacts to City Council, leadership, and stakeholder groups.
• Oversees daily operations including payroll, procurement, customer service, and staff guidance.
• Ensures continuity of departmental activities and supports team performance and workflow alignment.
• Monitors compliance with active tax incentive agreements, consulting contracts, and professional services.
• Prepares compliance reports for the Texas Comptroller's Office and communicates with participating entities to ensure all requirements are met.
• Participates in special projects, assists with business recruitment and retention, conducts research, and supports strategic planning initiatives to enhance economic growth and public‑private partnerships.
• Will be required to drive a City vehicle for city business use.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Skilled in research, analysis, and project coordination.
• Skilled in public speaking and presenting complex information.
• Skilled in program development and performance monitoring.
• Skilled in drafting and reviewing technical and legal documents.
• Skilled in contract monitoring and evaluations.
• Ability to interpret regulatory and reporting requirements.
• Ability to communicate clearly with elected officials and the public.
• Ability to assign tasks, monitor work quality, and ensure service continuity.
• Ability to conduct data analysis and interpret regulatory guidance.
• Ability to identify risks, inconsistencies, and compliance issues.
• Ability to analyze complex program requirements and determine compliance.
• Ability to collaborate with businesses, community partners, and government agencies.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and shifting priorities.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.
• Ability to give directions to and gain compliance from assigned staff.
• Ability to perform strenuous work and routine work.
• Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.
• Ability to comply…