An Economic and Workforce Development Program Director employs strategies to improve the economy and support the skill development of workers in a city of state. They may administer economic development to attract and retain businesses and industries and support programs to support unemployed or underemployed workers. They manage relationships with businesses, civic groups, and training providers to support the local economy and workers within it.
: The Director of Economic Development leads programs and partnerships that drive economic growth, support local businesses, and promote innovation. This role works across departments and with community and regional partners to align economic initiatives with the City's broader goals in planning, infrastructure, and equity.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS
The City of North Miami's Economic Development Department is dedicated to building a thriving, equitable, and inclusive economy through: Empowering local businesses with innovative programs and access to capital. Creating jobs and sustainable workforce pipelines for North Miami residents. Revitalizing key corridors and neighborhoods to attract investment and improve quality of life. Building strategic partnerships with private sector leaders, educational institutions, and regional stakeholders. Develop, implement, and monitor the City's comprehensive economic development strategy in alignment with Council priorities and master plans. Lead citywide initiatives, including downtown redevelopment and major infrastructure investment projects. Collaborate with departments on policies that integrate economic development with land use, transportation, housing, and sustainability. Manage programs that support business attraction, retention, and expansion, including grant and incentive programs. Serve as the City's liaison to business owners, developers, and investors. Promote key corridors and commercial spaces for new retail opportunities, mixed-use, and technology-based development. Drive technology-focused initiatives that cultivate talent pipelines, support minority entrepreneurship, and foster pathways into emerging and high-growth industries. Foster partnerships with local universities, trade schools, and workforce agencies. Identify and secure state, federal, and private funding to support training and innovation initiatives. Coordinate public-private partnerships and redevelopment projects that stimulate growth and improve the built environment. Oversee market analyses, feasibility studies, and project evaluations. Support the CRA in executing revitalization projects, infrastructure improvements, and incentive programs. Lead outreach efforts to ensure inclusive participation in economic opportunities. Partners with chambers of commerce, business associations, and nonprofit organizations. Representing the City at regional economic development forums and conferences. Oversee departmental staff, budgets, and work programs. Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for the City Manager, Mayor, and Council. Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal program requirements. Bachelor's degree in Economic Development, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business, or related field. Master's degree preferred. Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, redevelopment, or urban planning. Minimum of five (5) years of supervisory or management experience. Possession of a valid Florida Driver's License. Strong understanding of economic development tools, incentives, and financing mechanisms. Experience managing grants, federal programs, and public-private partnerships. Proven success in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and project management. Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills. Strong analytical and negotiation abilities. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community engagement.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) Familiarity with South Florida's economic landscape, workforce trends, and real estate market. Experience working in a municipal or public agency environment.
