Position Overview
The Executive Director serves as the primary catalyst for the Wright County Economic Development Partnership and is responsible for leading business attraction, business retention and expansion, investor engagement, regional partnerships, and strategic initiatives that support job creation and long term economic vitality within our service area.
Strategic Leadership & Community Collaboration
· Collaborate with local community partners to help advance strategic growth and economic development initiatives throughout the county.
· Serve as a convener and connector among municipalities, businesses, educational institutions, workforce organizations, and economic development stakeholders.
· Foster regional alignment among communities to strengthen competitiveness and support shared economic development goals.
· Identify emerging economic trends, opportunities, and challenges and recommend responsive strategies to the Board of Directors.
Business Growth & Industry Engagement
· Develop and implement strategies to attract new businesses and investment opportunities to the region.
· Lead business retention and expansion efforts through proactive engagement with employers and industry leaders.
· Conduct regular outreach to local businesses to identify growth opportunities, workforce concerns, infrastructure needs, and potential barriers to success.
· Support entrepreneurship and small business development initiatives that enhance the area's economic ecosystem.
Investor & Stakeholder Development
· Expand and strengthen relationships with investors, members, sponsors, and strategic partners.
· Cultivate meaningful partnerships with business executives, developers, elected officials, community leaders, and nonprofit organizations.
· Represent WCEDP and the communities of Wright County in regional, state, and partner driven economic development activities.
· Serve as a visible ambassador for the organization and its mission.
Program Development & Resource Advancement
· Design and implement programs, events, and initiatives that support economic growth and stakeholder engagement.
· Pursue grants, sponsorships, public & private partnerships, and other funding opportunities aligned with organizational objectives.
· Monitor and evaluate program outcomes and communicate impact to stakeholders and investors.
Organizational Leadership
· Partner with the Board of Directors to establish strategic priorities and organizational objectives.
· Support effective board governance, committee engagement, and long range planning.
· Oversee organizational operations, budgeting, financial stewardship, reporting, and administrative functions.
· Ensure the organization operates efficiently and maintains strong relationships with members and community partners.
Desired Qualifications
· Proven leadership experience in economic development, community development, business development, public & private partnerships, or related fields.
· Demonstrated ability to build consensus and foster productive partnerships among diverse stakeholder groups.
· Track record of driving measurable results related to business growth, investment attraction, job creation, or organizational development.
· Strong communication, presentation, facilitation, and relationship management skills.
· Knowledge of economic development financing tools, incentives, grants, workforce development resources, and site selection processes.
· Experience with strategic planning, investor development, and organizational leadership.
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office and common business technology platforms.
· Valid driver license and ability to travel throughout the region.
Compensation
Base Salary: $75,000 - $95,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. In addition, the position is eligible for performance based incentive compensation tied to metrics established by the Board of Directors, including organizational growth, investor and member development, business retention, business expansion, strategic partnerships, and other key performance objectives.
