Asst. Director of Economic Development
 City of Columbia MO- HR | |
 United States, Missouri, Columbia | |
 Dec 16, 2025 | |
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Job Title Location Position Type Salary Range Posting Number Department Division Application Status- Open Until Filled Work Schedule Position Overview This position plays a critical role in industrial site development, business recruitment, incentive coordination, retail attraction, redevelopment strategies, and business retention and expansion efforts. The Assistant Director works closely with public and private partners and supervises staff while helping guide department strategy, operations, and financial stewardship. Key Responsibilities Lead industrial site development and marketing efforts, including maintaining an inventory of available industrial land and buildings and managing the Missouri Certified Site designation process. Manage industrial recruitment and new business attraction projects, including preparing site, building, and incentive proposals and responding to prospective employer inquiries. Coordinate company and consultant site visits and manage recruitment projects leading to major employer locations. Facilitate local and state incentive processes, including Chapter 100 coordination with Boone County. Lead retail recruitment efforts by maintaining site inventories, identifying prospects, conducting outreach, attending industry events, and responding to inquiries. Collaborate with city, county, and regional partners to assist developers through regulatory, permitting, and development processes. Develop and implement revitalization strategies for under-served areas and priority development opportunities using research, data analysis, and best practices. Supervise assigned staff, including hiring, performance management, and work plan alignment. Support business retention and expansion initiatives by coordinating incentives, monitoring compliance, reporting to stakeholders, and maintaining relationships with major employers. Serve as Vice President of Regional Economic Development Incorporated (REDI), including board reporting, event planning, and stakeholder engagement. Maintain regular attendance and perform related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Seven to nine years of experience in local or state economic development or a closely related field. Valid driver’s license. Preferred Qualifications Experience with industrial site readiness, commercial development, incentive structuring, and public-private partnerships. Knowledge and Skills Working knowledge of local and state incentive programs including Chapter 100 and Missouri Works. Understanding of commercial redevelopment, urban planning, zoning, land use, and regulatory processes. Ability to analyze economic, demographic, and market data to inform strategy and decision-making. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience addressing diverse stakeholder groups. Strong project management, negotiation, marketing, and leadership skills. Ability to supervise staff, manage budgets, and align financial decisions with strategic objectives. Work Environment Why Work for the City of Columbia Join a dynamic public-private partnership driving long-term prosperity in a growing, vibrant region anchored by the University of Missouri, major transportation investments, and a strong quality of life. Make a measurable impact on job creation, economic mobility, and regional competitiveness. Collaborate with experienced professionals, engaged civic leadership, and influential business partners. Receive competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and participation in the City’s retirement program. Application Requirements Applicants must also provide two to three examples of written communication delivered to diverse stakeholders that conveyed complex information and encouraged action. Examples may include plans, reports, presentations, or professional correspondence. Equal Opportunity Statement Individuals needing accommodation to apply may call 573-874-CITY (2489). Salary/Compensation: $87,381 - $111,010 per year recblid q6gzol61jcfsuhd5y7fco2a6uzhju3 | |