We're Hiring for Vice President of Economic Development
About the Job
The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce is seeking an experienced leader to serve as their next Vice President of Economic Development.
Killeen is a growing city of 160,000 population and primary city of the Killeen-Temple MSA (475,000). It is the home to one of the largest military bases in the country, US Army Base Fort Hood. Killeen hosts two growing colleges, Central Texas College and Texas A&M University – Central Texas, as well as several others within commuting distance. The city is one of the most diverse populations in the state bringing an array of cultures to the region. The Texas hill country setting among two major lakes makes for a great outdoor lifestyle. Killeen is the largest city between Dallas and Austin and is positioned to reach all the major Texas markets in a few hours.
The Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit 501(c)6 organization that provides vision, leadership and support to business and community leaders to create economic prosperity in the dynamic growing central Texas region. The Chamber is tasked with providing staff leadership to several development efforts including the Killeen Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) and Killeen Industrial Foundation (KIF). The Vice President of Economic Development is a senior member of the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce and provides leadership support to the KEDC and KIF. The position reports to the President of the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce.
Candidates should have a thorough knowledge of economic development principles and practices including marketing, real estate, research, industrial recruitment, and business retention & expansion programs. They should have a strong background in recruitment of high value businesses to help diversify the area and achieve community success at the next level. Experience working with technology-based industries is a plus.
The ideal candidate will be well-organized, detail-oriented, and skilled in preparing responses to business inquiries including working with local partner agencies. This individual must possess excellent interpersonal and writing skills and think creatively about ways to assist all partners in a growing the local economy. They should function well in a fast-paced, small office environment and understand budget management. They must have experience in out of market travel and representing a community in a professional manner.
Job duties:
Research and compile Killeen demographic and economic data in advance of and in response to inquiries from prospective businesses
Analyze the feasibility of proposed projects including financial and economic impact analysis.
Develop and implement initiatives for attraction and expansion of target industries.
Work in concert with the Chamber communications manager to develop information for the
Killeen EDC website, marketing materials and social media.
Support the President in the development of the annual budget.
Represent Killeen at public, social and business functions.
Assist in the management and marketing of the real estate offerings of Killeen Economic Development Corporation, including buildings and business park sites.
Develop and maintain quality relationships with regional commercial real estate professionals, national site selectors and staff of the Texas Governor’s Office of Economic Development & Tourism.
Prepare proposals, conduct presentations, and site tours for economic development prospects.
Demonstrate integrity by maintaining the confidentiality of all information that may be shared by partners in the economic development process.
Always represent Killeen and the Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce in a professional and diplomatic manner.
Job Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required; preference for background in marketing, business, or a related discipline.
Five years experience in economic development, business attraction or experience within as a marketing professional.
Certification as an economic development professional (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council is highly preferred. Minimum level of completion of Basic Economic Development Course.
Knowledge in business management and marketing, market analysis, relevant municipal processes and/or financial management.
Strong, effective sales background with proven results.
Ability to gather and manage large amounts of data, analyze, evaluate and disseminate in a succinct and effective manner. Demonstrated reporting, data analysis and research skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to present accurate information with a strong attention to detail in a high pressure, fast-paced environment.
Creative and strategic-thinking abilities.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to coordinate multiple projects and the flexibility to adjust to changes.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member.
Experienced computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, Google Earth, Salesforce, Impact Datasource and other tools.
A valid driver’s license.
Featured benefits:
- Medical insurance
- Vision insurance
- Dental insurance
- 401(k)
- Paid maternity leave
- Paid paternity leave
Please submit resumes, including a cover letter to Scott Connell, scott@killeenchamber.com.