JOB SUMMARY

The Economic and Local Business Development Director plans, organizes, and implements economic development functions from conception to completion. This includes local business retention and expansion, business attraction, incentive programs, research, and strategic planning. The role is responsible for implementing economic development goals and objectives, managing staff, and coordinating with local businesses, government agencies, City departments, boards, commissions, and partner organizations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following list outlines the core responsibilities of this position. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

Administer the City’s Economic Development Policy, focusing on business attraction, retention, diversification, workforce development, and entrepreneurship.
Serve as Board Liaison to the Economic Development San Marcos Board.
Manage assigned staff, including hiring, training, coaching, performance evaluation, and goal setting.
Implement a multi-faceted incentive policy aligned with City goals and community values.
Conduct research and financial analysis for candidate projects, including ROI assessments.
Facilitate contract negotiations (e.g., Chapter 380 agreements) and coordinate development entitlements.
Focus on target industries and priority areas as identified by City Council.
Partner with HCEDP and other agencies on economic and workforce development strategies.
Utilize Opportunity Zones and related federal incentive tools to attract long-term investments.

Local Business Retention, Expansion, and Workforce Development:

Develop and implement a Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program.
Support small businesses and entrepreneurs through inclusive ecosystem development.
Connect local businesses to technical assistance and capital resources.
Collaborate with Planning & Development Services to streamline permitting for small businesses.
Build programs that enhance local business resilience.
Contribute to strategic workforce development initiatives and action planning.
Stay informed on trends, legislation, and innovations in economic development.

Business Recruitment and Support

Deliver services and information to prospective businesses, including marketing, incentives, permitting, workforce support, and site visits.
Coordinate with internal departments and external organizations to support industry cluster development.
Present to boards, civic groups, and the public on economic development initiatives.

Policy and Program Knowledge

Build strong internal relationships and understand City processes, including planning, permitting, and inspections.
Enhance the City’s economic development toolbox.
Recommend improvements to systems and procedures for better service delivery.

Representation and Community Engagement

Represent the City in meetings and discussions related to economic development initiatives.
Cultivate and maintain effective working relationships with key external partners, including local businesses, real estate professionals, regional agencies, and economic development organizations.
Respond to requests for information regarding City economic development programs.
Attend seminars and programs related to business retention and expansion; deliver presentations to business and community groups on local economic development efforts.
Serve as a strong ambassador for the community, using creative and innovative techniques to support business recruitment, retention, and expansion.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Business, Public Administration, Economics, or Finance.
Five (5) years of experience in economic or business development program administration.
An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Five (5) years of experience with developer agreements involving incentives (e.g., TIRZ, PID).
Economic Development Certification or the ability to obtain within three (3) years of hire.
Valid Texas Class “C” Driver’s License or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment.

COMPETENCIES AND ENVIRONMENT

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of economic development principles, incentive tools, and public-private partnerships.
Strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
Ability to analyze financial data and assess project feasibility.
Skilled in relationship-building and interdepartmental coordination.
Ability to manage complex projects and lead cross-functional teams.
Proficiency in public speaking and professional presentations.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community values in economic development.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires the ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally. Frequent activities include sitting, speaking, hearing, and using a computer. Occasional site visits may involve walking on uneven surfaces.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is primarily performed in an office setting with occasional fieldwork. Travel may be required for meetings, site visits, or events.

Economic and Local Business Development Director

Job Type