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Job Description
Lead One of Nebraska's Most Recognized Economic Success Stories. The Seward County Chamber & Development Partnership (SCCDP) is seeking a bold, visionary, passionate, and relationship-driven President & CEO to lead the next era of transformational growth. Seward County (pop. 17,609) isn't waiting for the future — it's building it.
This is a rare opportunity to lead a respected organization with proven success, statewide recognition, strong partnerships, and a clear vision for the future. The Chamber and its 100+ members are driven to build the best team in Nebraska. The SCCDP was recently accredited with 3 stars by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce - one of only five in Nebraska, and 195 nationwide. Why Seward County? Seward County has become a statewide model for collaborative rural growth, collaborative community development, economic innovation, entrepreneurial leadership, workforce development, and quality-of-life investment.
Recent year highlights include:
More than $220 million in recent investment projects and major job creation initiatives; Expansion of the Seward Regional Rail Campus, attracting nationally recognized industry partners and advanced manufacturing investment; Development of transformative housing (131 units), childcare, downtown revitalization, and wellness initiatives designed to support long-term workforce growth; Continued Economic Development Certified Community (EDCC) recertification recognizing Seward's readiness for business growth and expansion. About the Opportunity. As President & CEO, you will serve as the chief executive officer of SCCDP and lead strategic efforts to strengthen Seward County's economy, workforce, housing, entrepreneurship ecosystem, and regional competitiveness.
Reporting directly to the SCCDP Board of Directors, the President & CEO serves as the lead convener, advocate, strategist, and community connector.
This role requires a leader who can inspire collaboration among public and private partners, build lasting partnerships, recruit economic opportunities, communicate a compelling vision, and convert opportunity into measurable impact. This leader should be led by the following guiding principles: integrity, respect, leadership, giving/philanthropy, and planning for the future. Applicants should possess the following qualifications: Bachelor's degree in economic development, business administration, marketing, or related field; economic or business development experience preferred; experience with grant writing and administration; strong leadership, strategic planning, and partnership building skills.
Salary Range:
$80,000 - $100,000 - Depending on qualifications. Key Leadership Responsibilities Economic & Community Development Lead countywide economic development initiatives and strategic growth efforts Support business retention, expansion, entrepreneurship, succession, and new business recruitment Advance housing and workforce development strategies; Champion initiatives to improve quality of life Organizational Leadership Guide and mentor a staff of five; Execute SCCDP's strategic vision and organizational priorities Oversee budgeting, operations, membership growth, and long-term sustainability Maintain strong relationships with investors, stakeholders, and community partners Public Leadership & Advocacy Serve as the public face of SCCDP across local, regional, and state platforms Advocate for member and community priorities with elected officials and government agencies Build partnerships with businesses, municipalities, educational institutions, and civic organizations Apply Today If you are ready to help shape the next chapter of one of Nebraska's most dynamic counties, we encourage you to apply. Applications are available via email to board@cultivatesewardcounty.com. If you have questions about the position, we would like to hear from you at 402-643-4189. The next application review will be on July 17th, please apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration.