
The City That Bet on Fiber and Won: A New Playbook for Economic Development
In 2010, Chattanooga, Tennessee did something a little crazy. The city's public utility strung gigabit fiber to every home and business in town before most Americans knew what a gigabit even was. Skeptics called it a boondoggle. A decade later, an independent study from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga clocked the payoff at $2.69 billion in net community benefits and roughly 9,500 jobs created or retained, with newer analysis pushing the figure past $5.3 billion. One quiet infrastructure bet turned a smokestack town into "Gig City."techdirt
That is what modern economic development looks like. Not ribbon cuttings and tax abatements alone, but a mix of smart technology, patient partnerships, and workforce investment that compounds over years. Whether you run a city, a chamber, a department, or you are the newest analyst in the room trying to make sense of it all, the same five levers keep showing up. Here is how to actually pull them.
Let AI Do the Homework Before You Write the Policy
Municipal leaders have always tried to predict the future. The difference now is that the crystal ball actually works. New York City's Economic Development Corporation reports that the city's AI sector already supports more than 40,000 jobs and is projected to add another 40,000 by 2030, in part because agencies are using machine learning to model where housing, transit, and talent pipelines need to line up. At the operational level, cities deploying AI across water networks, transit fleets, and streetlights are seeing payback windows of roughly 14 to 18 months and a 4x to 8x multiplier on infrastructure spend.ifactoryapp+1
The pragmatic move for a leader is to pick one decision you make every year that you already suspect is being made on gut feel. Maybe it is where to site a new small business corridor, or which zip codes need workforce funding. Feed the last five years of data into an AI model, ask it to flag the three variables you have been ignoring, and let that shape next year's plan. For the analyst just starting out, this is your opening. The person who can turn a messy municipal dataset into a one page brief is the person who gets pulled into the room where decisions happen.
Build the Bench Before You Need the Team
Nobody wins alone. The Village of Hoffman Estates, Illinois turned the ghost of a former Sears headquarters into Bell Works Chicagoland, a mixed use "metroburb" that now hosts more than a hundred tenants, all through a public private partnership recognized in the 2025 ICSC Excellence in Community Advancement Awards. The city brought zoning flexibility and civic trust. The developer brought capital and a vision. Both needed each other.icsc
Strong partnerships share three things: a written scope, a shared scoreboard, and a standing meeting no one is allowed to skip. If you are early in your career, this is where you make your reputation. Volunteer to be the person who runs the agenda and tracks the follow ups between a school district, a workforce board, and a local employer. Six months of that and you will know every economic actor in your region on a first name basis.
Treat Infrastructure Like a Growth Product, Not a Line Item
Roads and pipes are not glamorous, but neither is a warehouse. Both make everything else possible. Global city leaders are spending roughly 15 to 20 percent of their capital budgets on smart infrastructure programs, and the ones furthest along are earning ROI north of 7 percent across mobility, environment, and public health portfolios. Meanwhile, the World Economic Forum estimates that low and middle income countries will need up to $821 billion a year through 2050 in resilient, low carbon infrastructure to protect trillions in future value.weforum+1
The practical translation is simple. Every infrastructure decision should answer two questions on one page. What does this asset cost us to run for the next 20 years, and what does it unlock that we cannot build today? Sensor enabled water systems are cutting leak losses by 70 percent. AI dispatched transit fleets are boosting uptime by 40 percent. Those are not tech demos. They are budget lines that pay themselves back and then some.ifactoryapp
Reskill People Faster Than the Job Market Changes Them
The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025 projects that 39 percent of workers' core skills will change by 2030, that 59 percent of the global workforce will need reskilling or upskilling, and that 78 million net new jobs will be created worldwide, with AI and big data topping the list of fastest growing skills. Half of employers plan to reorient around AI, and two thirds are actively hiring for AI skills. Read that again. The labor market is not shifting. It has shifted.weforum
Cities that thrive in this environment do three unsexy things well. They map local employer demand quarterly instead of annually. They fund short, stackable credentials that a working parent can finish on a lunch break. And they measure success by wage gain a year after completion, not by seat time. For someone just entering the workforce, the message is even simpler. Pick one AI or data tool this quarter, get good enough to teach a colleague, and repeat every quarter. That habit compounds faster than any degree.
Diversify So You Can Take a Punch
Small businesses generated 1.2 million net new jobs and roughly 89 percent of total net job creation in the United States between March 2023 and March 2024, and they still employ nearly 46 percent of private sector workers. Cities that lean into that reality, seeding local entrepreneurs and diversifying their industry mix, hold up better when a single sector stumbles.advocacy.sba
Resilience is not just an economic story anymore, it is a climate one. A record 400 cities disclosed nearly 1,900 climate projects in 2025, seeking roughly $92 billion in financing, and the Resilient Cities Network is now building an investable market to close a $4.3 trillion annual resilience gap. Green bonds, resilience bonds, and blended finance are moving from novel to normal. If your city is not on that map yet, get on it this fiscal year.weforum
Your Move
Chattanooga did not become Gig City because someone wrote a great memo. It happened because a handful of leaders decided that boring infrastructure, patient partnerships, and a bet on their own people would beat waiting for permission. That option is on your desk too. Pick one lever from this article, whether you sit in a corner office or a cubicle you just decorated, and pull it before the quarter ends. Cities are not built by the people who studied the playbook the longest. They are built by the ones who ran the play.
References
Chattanooga Times Free Press, and Techdirt. 2025. "Chattanooga Saw Billions in Economic Benefits After Building a Community Owned Fiber Broadband Network." Techdirt, December 10, 2025. https://www.techdirt.com/2025/12/10/chattanooga-saw-billions-in-economic-benefits-after-building-a-community-owned-fiber-broadband-network/.
Econsult Solutions and ESI ThoughtLab. n.d. Smarter Cities 2025. Accessed July 14, 2026. https://econsultsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/ESI-ThoughtLab_Smarter-Cities-2025_ebook_FINAL.pdf.
iFactory. 2026. "Smart City Infrastructure Investment ROI Framework: AI Powered Approach." Last modified April 29, 2026. https://ifactoryapp.com/industries/infrastructure-management/smart-city-infrastructure-investment-roi-framework.
International Council of Shopping Centers. 2025. "5 Transformative Public Private Partnerships: The 2025 ICSC Excellence in Community Advancement Award Winners." ICSC Exchange. https://www.icsc.com/news-and-views/icsc-exchange/5-transformative-public-private-partnerships-the-2025-icsc-excellence-in-community-advancement-award-winners.
New York City Economic Development Corporation. 2025. New York City's AI Advantage 2025 Report.https://edc.nyc/sites/default/files/2025-01/NYCEDC-NYC-AI-Advantage-2025-Report.pdf.
U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy. 2025. "New Advocacy Report Shows the Number of Small Businesses in the U.S. Exceeds 36 Million." June 30, 2025. https://advocacy.sba.gov/2025/06/30/new-advocacy-report-shows-the-number-of-small-businesses-in-the-u-s-exceeds-36-million/.
World Economic Forum. 2025a. "Future of Jobs Report 2025: 78 Million New Job Opportunities by 2030 but Urgent Upskilling Needed to Prepare Workforces." January 7, 2025. https://www.weforum.org/press/2025/01/future-of-jobs-report-2025-78-million-new-job-opportunities-by-2030-but-urgent-upskilling-needed-to-prepare-workforces/.
World Economic Forum. 2025b. "How Investing in Urban Resilience Can Foster Sustainable Growth." October 23, 2025. https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/10/how-investing-in-urban-resilience-can-foster-sustainable-growth/.
World Economic Forum. 2025c. "Urban Transformation Summit Spurs Bold Action to Reimagine the Future of Cities and Local Economies." October 28, 2025. https://www.weforum.org/press/2025/10/urban-transformation-summit-spurs-bold-action-to-reimagine-the-future-of-cities-and-local-economies/.
More from Economic Development
Explore related articles on similar topics
Top Paying Jobs in Economic Development
Highest paying opportunities related to this article
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Austin (population 26,000) is seeking an experienced, collaborative leader to serve as its next City Administrator and Executive Director of the Austin Port Authority. Austin is a financially stable community with a diverse economy and strong community partnerships. This role offers the opportunity to lead a community with the resources and vision to make a lasting impact while enjoying the quality of life in southeastern Minnesota. The position involves overseeing city operations and port authority functions in a environment committed to thoughtful growth. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as the City Administrator for the City of Austin - Serve as the Executive Director of the Austin Port Authority - Lead community initiatives and foster partnerships - Oversee city operations and administrative functions - Promote thoughtful growth and economic stability - Collaborate with community stakeholders, businesses, and residents MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in a related field - Five years of progressively responsible local government management experience PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Master’s degree - Experience in economic development SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be able to relocate to Austin, Minnesota (Relocation assistance is offered) - Strong leadership and collaboration skills - Commitment to community partnership and thoughtful growth SELECTION PROCESS - Application deadline: August 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM Central Time - Questions regarding the position or recruitment process may be directed to the contact listed below HOW TO APPLY - Learn more and apply online at: https://www.ci.austin.mn.us/cityadmin - For questions, contact Dave Unmacht: - Email: dunmacht@ci.austin.mn.us - Phone: 612-202-2391 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Austin, Minnesota - Job Type: Full-time (FT) - Department: Not Applicable (Executive Leadership) - Opening Date: July 10, 2026 - Closing Date: August 9, 2026, 11:59 PM Central - Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including relocation assistance
About the Role The City of Richmond's Department of Economic Development seeks a results-oriented Senior Vice President of Business Investment to lead the strategy and execution of the City's efforts to attract, retain, and engage businesses, and activate commercial corridors. This highly visible senior position works with leaders across the City to manage mission-critical initiatives that shape the city's future. Key Responsibilities - Work directly with the Director and City leaders to define priorities, positioning, and near- and long-term strategy. - Oversee a team focused on business attraction, retention, business engagement, and commercial corridor activation. - Develop or oversee policies and programs to activate commercial corridors, encourage placemaking, attract commercial investment, and support small businesses. - Lead high-stakes corporate recruitment and retention projects, including proposal development, negotiations, and deal closures. - Represent the City to the press, elected leaders, and public and private partners. - Serve on industry and community task forces, boards, or collaborative initiatives. - Oversee team performance by tracking key metrics related to business investment efforts and using data to improve outcomes. - Develop and manage annual budgets, employee work plans, and consultant projects. Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in public administration, urban planning, public policy, political science, economic development, business administration, or a similarly related area. - Seven years of progressively responsible related experience in an economic development organization that includes significant program management and supervisory experience. - An equivalent combination of training and experience may be used as approved by the department. Special Requirements - Must possess a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver's license. - Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree in a related field and ten years of progressively responsible related experience. - Experience leading business attraction, placemaking, and commercial corridor initiatives such as business improvement districts. - Proven ability to conceptualize, draft, and implement new policies and programs. - Experience managing economic development professionals and building relationships with corporate and community stakeholders. - Experience presenting to City Councils, economic development authorities, and planning commissions. - Experience with Customer Relationship Management software, specifically Salesforce. - Physical requirements are considered sedentary work, exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally. Selection Process 1. Application Review: Applications are reviewed to ensure candidates meet the minimum qualifications and experience requirements. 2. Interview and Assessment: Candidates who meet the qualifications will proceed to further evaluation and interviews as determined by the hiring department. How to Apply - Submit an application through the official City of Richmond career portal. - For ADA accommodations during the application or interview process, contact Veronica Kenner at HR-ADA@rva.gov. Employment Details - Employer: City of Richmond, Department of Economic Development - Benefits: Virginia Retirement System (VRS), language incentive, referral bonus, and tuition assistance program. - Equal Opportunity: The City of Richmond provides equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination based on any protected characteristic. - Veteran Friendly: The City is an official V3 Certified Company and a proud partner with the US Army Partnership for Your Success PaYS Program.
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Saint Paul is seeking an innovative and forward-thinking leader to serve as Deputy Director of Planning and Economic Development. This executive role offers the opportunity to drive meaningful change across the city, guiding economic development, housing growth, neighborhood revitalization, and strategic investments that impact more than 300,000 residents. As a trusted strategic partner to the Director, you will help lead one of the City's most influential departments, guiding complex development projects, fostering public-private partnerships, and ensuring the organization operates with excellence, innovation, and accountability. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead strategic initiatives that advance economic development, housing, planning, and real estate investment across Saint Paul. - Provide executive leadership for departmental operations, organizational effectiveness, and cross-functional teams. - Build partnerships with developers, financial institutions, community organizations, elected officials, and regional stakeholders to bring transformative projects to life. - Drive innovation through process improvement, technology, and operational excellence to deliver high-quality public service. - Represent the department and City leadership with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to collaboration and equitable community development. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning, Economics, Finance, Real Estate, Marketing, Public Administration, Business Administration, Management, or a closely-related field. - Six years of progressively responsible administrative experience in urban planning and design, economic development, housing, and/or real estate financing and development. - Two years of experience in a managerial role planning organizational strategies, supervising employees, and leading complex projects. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - A Master's or advanced degree in a related field is preferred. - Must pass a pre-employment background check which may include criminal history and employment history. SELECTION PROCESS - Applicants who meet the criteria and requirements stated on the job posting will be placed on a hiring list for consideration. - Hiring Managers may interview or hire anyone from the list. - Final selection process may include an interview, job simulation, work sample submission, or other evaluation method. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit a City of Saint Paul online application by the closing date. 2. Upload a resume and a cover letter via the online application system. Zip files and web links will not be accepted. Each uploaded attachment is limited to 10MB. - Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled. Preference will be given to applications received by July 6, 2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Saint Paul, MN - Job Type: Full Time - This is an unclassified position and is therefore not governed by City Civil Service Rules.
About the Role The City of St. Louis is seeking a transformational executive leader for the Commissioner of Building Operations & Code Administration. This pivotal role oversees a team of 200 employees and is responsible for the city's building regulatory, permitting, and inspection functions. The Commissioner will drive city-wide transformation, accelerate tornado recovery efforts, reform the permitting process to fuel economic development, and lead the historic Zoning Upgrade overhaul. Key Responsibilities - Lead and manage all building operations, including permitting, inspections, and code enforcement. - Establish and drive performance metrics such as permit cycle times, inspection turnaround, and backlog reduction. - Modernize permitting and plan review systems, including the implementation of new digital platforms and workflow optimization. - Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal building codes and regulations. - Oversee the development, interpretation, and implementation of building codes, ordinances, and design standards. - Serve as the primary liaison to developers, contractors, design professionals, community stakeholders, and elected officials. - Represent the City in hearings, including the Board of Adjustment and Appeals, and provide expert testimony. - Collaborate with internal departments to ensure coordinated service delivery and regulatory alignment. - Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of managers, inspectors, and technical staff. Minimum Qualifications - A Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Public Administration, or a directly related field with Certified Building Code Official (CBO) status. - OR a Master's degree in the aforementioned fields plus five years of experience managing building code enforcement at a senior management level. - OR Registration as a Professional Architect in the State of Missouri. - OR Registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of Missouri. - OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Special Requirements - Must possess executive leadership, operational excellence, regulatory expertise, and strategic thinking skills. - Must be skilled in stakeholder management, change management, and data-driven decision making. - Must pass a background investigation on a pass or fail basis. - Must pass a medical examination on a pass or fail basis. - Must submit documentation of academic credentials upon request. Selection Process 1. Application Review: Evaluation of the fully completed employment application, scoring 100 percent based on experience and training. 2. Background Investigation: Must pass a comprehensive background check on a pass or fail basis. 3. Medical Examination: Must pass a medical examination on a pass or fail basis. How to Apply - Submit a fully completed Employment Application through the official City of St. Louis careers portal. - Do not submit a resume in place of the application, as incomplete applications will not be considered. - Thoroughly describe your education, training, and experience in the Employment History and Educational sections. - Submit a copy of your DD 214 if claiming Veterans Preference points. - City residents who have lived in the city for at least one year receive preference points on the exam. Employment Details - Department: City of St. Louis, Building Division - Location: Downtown - St. Louis, MO - Position Type: Full-Time, Permanent - Position Grade: 20M - Examination Number: EX1611
ABOUT THE ROLE The Policy Director for Housing will lead the New York City Comptroller's housing policy and oversight agenda to address the city's housing affordability crisis. Working within the Policy Bureau, this role involves independently leading complex policy initiatives, advising the Comptroller and senior leadership, developing innovative policy recommendations, and representing the Office before government agencies, stakeholders, and the public. The position coordinates closely with Budget, Audit, Legal, Contracts, and the Bureau of Asset Management to advance housing priorities and strengthen accountability across City government. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead policy research and oversight on housing affordability, production, preservation, tenant protections, homelessness, land use, and related issues - Independently manage complex research and policy projects from conception through publication and implementation - Develop strategic policy recommendations and advise the Comptroller and senior leadership on emerging housing issues - Produce major policy reports, testimony, public statements, briefing materials, and legislative analyses - Coordinate housing initiatives across Budget, Audit, Legal, Contracts, Bureau of Asset Management, and other bureaus - Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, government agencies, housing providers, advocates, researchers, and philanthropic organizations - Represent the Office in public meetings, conferences, legislative hearings, working groups, media briefings, and stakeholder convenings MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college with a major in accounting, business administration, public relations, city planning, urban renewal, law, or a related field AND three (3) years of satisfactory, full-time, responsible experience in housing, education, health services, planning, state-federal-city relations, or community relations involving administration or program development and evaluation; OR - A satisfactory equivalent (such as a bachelor's degree and five (5) or more years of professional experience in housing policy, urban planning, public policy research and analysis in government, nonprofit organization, academia, or a related area) SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment (exceptions may apply for City employees with 2 continuous years of service, allowing residence in specific surrounding counties such as Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange) - No civil service exam is required for this Non-Competitive-5 title classification SELECTION PROCESS - No Exam Required - Candidates will be evaluated based on preferred skills, including demonstrated expertise in housing policy, experience managing complex projects, supervisory experience, strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, and deep knowledge of NYC's housing agencies, land use process, and affordability policy landscape - Application review will continue until the posting closes on September 15, 2026 HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the official City of New York jobs portal referencing Job ID 786333 - Ensure your application clearly demonstrates how your education and experience meet the minimum qualifications, highlighting relevant work in housing policy, urban planning, or public policy research EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job ID: 786333 - Title Code: 13198 - Civil Service Title: RESEARCH AND LIAISON COORDINAT - Title Classification: Non-Competitive-5 - Business Title: Policy Director, Housing - Experience Level: Manager (Job Level M3) - Number of Positions: 1 - Work Location: 1 Centre St., N.Y. (Manhattan) - Department: POL-Policy, Office of the Comptroller - Category: Policy, Research & Analysis
NOTE: Annual salary is at the start of the pay range. The current salary range is subject to change. Please confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer. A Building Mechanical Inspector inspects residential construction of two dwelling units or less, accessory buildings, signs and swimming pools to secure conformance to zoning ordinances, building, plumbing, mechanical and electrical codes and approved plans, specifications and standards; investigates all complaints and alleged code violations on all buildings; conducts surveys to identify blight, deterioration, and substandard conditions; issues appropriate orders to comply and citations; and assists in training other inspection employees as required. REQUIREMENT(S)/MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S) Four years of full-time paid experience as a building, construction, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, housing, or combined inspector for or on behalf of a governmental agency engaged in general residential construction; or Four years of full-time paid experience as a licensed general, masonry, plumbing, mechanical, electrical contractor engaged in general residential construction; or Two years of full-time paid experience in carpentry, masonry, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work, in general residential construction following the completion of a recognized apprenticeship program; or Eight years of full-time paid experience in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, or other construction related craft work in general residential construction; or One year full-time paid experience, as an Assistant Inspector III or an Inspector Trainee III with the City of Los Angeles. PROCESS NOTES Applicants filing under Requirement #3 must submit proof of completion of a recognized apprenticeship program at the time of filing. The requested document(s) must be attached to the on-line application BEFORE the application is submitted. If the document(s) is attached AFTER the on-line application has been submitted, it will not be available to the City and applicants WILL NOT be credited with having submitted the document(s). Applicants who fail to submit the document(s) at the time of filing by not attaching it to the on-line application will not be considered further in this examination. A valid certification from the International Code Council (ICC) per Article 5.13 of MOU #5 and Assembly Bill AB717 is required within two years from the date of appointment to the class. A valid Class C driver’s license issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is required at the time of filing. Applicants will be disqualified and not eligible for hire if their DMV record within the last 36 months reflects three or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents, or a conviction of a major moving violation such as DUI. Upon appointment, a Building Mechanical Inspector will be required to furnish an automobile, properly insured, for use in City service. Mileage will be paid according to established rates.
About the Role The City of Richmond Police Department is accepting applications for retired officers to return as full-time permanent sworn Police Officers. Returning officers will be assigned to a patrol capacity. This role requires completing a Reentry or modified Basic Training Class followed by eight weeks of Field Training. Key Responsibilities - Patrol assigned city jurisdiction using patrol cars, motorcycles, bicycles, or horses. - Make traffic stops and intervene in criminal activity. - Monitor police radio and respond to citizen calls, complaints, and requests. - Obtain and issue warrants, and process crime scenes. - Mark and package evidence, and investigate potential arson cases. - Provide surveillance, and interview suspects, witnesses, and victims. - Fingerprint and photograph suspects, and conduct computer-generated searches. - Prepare for and participate in the prosecution of cases in court. - Interact with City and community agencies, and maintain case files and reports. Minimum Qualifications - Must have retired from the Richmond Police Department. - Retirement must have occurred within the last five years, or the applicant must still hold a current DCJS certification. - If still employed with the department, must complete the DROP program before becoming eligible. - Must be separated from the department for at least one pay cycle prior to rehire. Special Requirements - Must complete Reentry or a modified Basic Training Class with the Training Academy prior to assignment. - Certified Officers must complete eight weeks of Field Training and maintain all applicable department and DCJS mandated training. - Must be able to perform medium to heavy work, exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force regularly and 50 to 100 pounds occasionally. - Must tolerate environmental hazards including extreme weather, noise, traffic, heights, disease, explosives, and violence. - Must possess normal visual acuity, hearing, speaking, color perception, sense of smell, and depth perception. Selection Process 1. Application Review: Applications are reviewed to ensure candidates meet the specific retiree requirements. 2. Interview: Successful candidates will complete an interview. 3. Background Investigation: A thorough background investigation, including a polygraph exam, is required. This process may take 60 to 90 days. 4. Medical Screening: Candidates must pass a physical and drug/alcohol screening. 5. Eligibility: Applicants disqualified from the background process may reapply one year after disqualification. How to Apply - Submit an application through the official City of Richmond career portal. - Check email regularly, as all correspondence regarding this recruitment will be sent via email. - For ADA accommodations during the application or interview process, contact Veronica Kenner at HR-ADA@rva.gov. Employment Details - Employer: City of Richmond Police Department - Position Type: Full-time permanent sworn position - Assignment: Patrol capacity - Benefits: Eligible for standard employee benefits including health, dental, life, and 457 Deferred Compensation. Eligible for off-duty work and overtime. Promotional process eligibility begins after nine months. - Retirement: Monthly retirement benefits stop upon rehire and restart upon subsequent retirement. Pension may be recalculated if the same defined benefit plan is elected. - Leave: Vacation and sick time accrual begins at zero hours with a new employee crediting rate. - Equal Opportunity: The City of Richmond is an Equal Opportunity Employer, V3 Certified, and complies with ADA requirements.
ABOUT THE ROLE The Town of Lexington is seeking a qualified Economic Development Director to join the Land Use, Housing and Development Department. This full-time position is responsible for managing economic development operations and fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the community. The Director will develop and implement economic development strategies in close coordination with the Assistant Town Manager for Development, Planning Director and staff, property developers, property owners, and other business leadership. The role aims to enrich the character and quality of life in Lexington by serving all constituents and promoting diversity in the workforce. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Manage Economic Development operations for the Town of Lexington. - Develop and implement comprehensive economic development strategies. - Coordinate with the Assistant Town Manager for Development and Planning Director/staff. - Collaborate with property developers, property owners, and business leadership. - Promote, respect, and accommodate diversity in the workforce to best serve all constituents. - Oversee supervision, budgeting, and marketing initiatives related to economic development. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Master’s degree, MBA, or equivalent. - Five to seven years of increasingly responsible experience in economic development. - Experience in local government is preferred. - Experience in supervision, budgeting, and marketing. - Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience in local government economic development. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Commitment to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. - Ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders including town officials, developers, and business leaders. SELECTION PROCESS - Position remains open until filled. - Review of submitted application forms, cover letters, and resumes. HOW TO APPLY - Obtain a complete job description and the town’s required application form online at www.lexingtonma.gov/311/Current-Job-Openings. - Submit the following documents: - Town application form (required) - Cover letter - Resume - Submission methods: - Email: jobs@lexingtonma.gov - Mail: Town of Lexington, Human Resources Department, 1625 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA 02420 - For questions, call 781-698-4590. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Community: Lexington, MA - Region: Greater Boston - Position Type: Full-time - Operational Area: Community Development (Planning, Building, Economic Development) - Department: Land Use, Housing and Development Department - Status: Open until filled





