MLGW is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. No information obtained in this application is intended to be used for such discrimination.

The Manager of Economic and Business Development Programs develops and executes tactical business retention, expansion and attraction programs, and manages economic development project workflow, continuously assesses and simplifies processes, trains teams to execute on processes, and manages the most complex projects, in addition to providing Key Accounts oversight. Research, plan, coordinate and implement business programs for commercial, office and industrial development. Oversee Economic Development Representatives which include training, leading and project assignments.

Provide management support as needed to the aligned Key Accounts team. Ensure proper contract negotiations, execute commercial growth strategies, act as a main point of contact between major attraction prospects and essential customers with internal MLGW teams. Streamline processes and develop programs for proposal to senior staff, executive management, elected officials and community partners. Track market conditions, identify project sites and evaluate drivers of economic growth.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Assess and simplify processes, train teams to execute on processes, and manage the most complex projects. Conduct activities to achieve joint MLGW/Chamber of Commerce/City of Memphis goals pertaining to economic growth of the service area. Plan, schedule and coordinate activities for employees; ensure adherence to work standards/time schedules; review/approve reports, recommendations, expenditures and their pertinent documents. Coordinate business retention, expansion and attract campaigns as a liaison with cross-functional teams, C Suite-level executives, external partners, chambers of commerce, workforce development agencies and industrial development boards.

Provide for a capable staff to meet the current commitments and future performance standards through proper selection, development and motivation of qualified personnel. Provide assistance and consultation with management and prospective customers and contractors; make presentations to the Board of Commissioners and other interested groups. Drive site preparation and recruiting efforts for infill development. Compile market research, economic analysis, maps and request-for-proposal responses. Establish small business assistance programs, improve workflow processes and evaluate affordable housing programs. Review key account and existing business metrics. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications - External

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

A valid driver's license from state of residence required.

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree in business, economics, urban planning, project management, engineering, marketing, real estate, architecture or related field is required.

EXPERIENCE

Must have six (6) years of progressive experience in economic development including two (2) years supervisory experience and background in some of the following:

Commercial real estate development, finance, leasing or sales. Labor market research, economic analysis or target industry identification. Small business assistance, entrepreneurship or marketing.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Must successfully complete NIMS Training within I year of entering job. Primarily office work with some in-field site and meeting visits. Must be able to drive a vehicle, traverse undeveloped tracks of land, walk through building without heating and air conditioning.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Includes occasionally bending, stooping, kneeling, lifting, pushing and reaching, Frequent fingering, gripping, reaching and repetitive motions. Must have the ability to manage complex and ever-changing projects and processes. Ability to identify, understand and explain financial and development incentives. Ability to quickly learn terminology and principles of public electricity, gas and water utilities. Lead generation and follow-up project management and relationship building with internal and external partners.

THIS LIST OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE AND MAY BE SUPPLEMENTED AS NECESSARY.