Community Development Director

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Village of Lake Zurich is seeking its next Community Development Director. The Community Development Director provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for all community development functions, guiding the Village's efforts to foster thoughtful growth, vibrant neighborhoods, and a strong economic future.

Key Responsibilities:

Leads the Department's overall strategic direction, aligning planning, zoning, building, and economic development initiatives with the Village's long-term vision and community priorities. Drives forward-looking land use and planning strategies, ensuring policies, studies, and recommendations are data-informed, innovative, and responsive to evolving community needs and market trends. Advises the Planning and Zoning Commission and Village Board by preparing and presenting high-level policy recommendations, development strategies, and regulatory updates that support sound decision-making and sustainable growth. Oversees the continuous evaluation and refinement of zoning codes, ordinances, and development standards to ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with best practices in planning and community development. Provides executive oversight of planning and building functions, ensuring coordinated, high-quality review of development proposals and consistent application of Village standards and policies. Integrates building services, permitting, and inspection operations into a cohesive, service-oriented development framework that supports efficiency, accountability, and an exceptional customer experience. Builds and leads a high-performing departmental team, fostering collaboration, professional development, and a culture of excellence across all Community Development functions.

Position Qualifications :

Qualified candidates will have a Master's degree with coursework in current and long-range planning, zoning, site and landscape planning, land development, or related field and extensive experience working in municipal government with local, state and federal laws and regulations, comprehensive planning, economic development, project planning, report writing and land development, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Selected candidate must also successfully complete a background check and post-offer employment physical examination including a drug screening.

Compensation and Benefits:

The starting annual salary is $129,302 - $158,330. Comprehensive benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave, and participation in the IMRF pension fund.