Under the direction of the Director, Community & Economic Innovation, the Economic Development Officer (EDO) is responsible for developing, implementing, monitoring and reporting on strategic economic development initiatives in accordance with Council priorities. This position is responsible for leading the development of a comprehensive economic development strategy and developing action plans to promote the Town to talent, visitors and companies using a holistic approach including considerations of the current available land, housing availability and the strong local assets. This position provides economic development expertise to support corporate initiatives including the Official Plan, Community Brand Strategy, tourism, events, other relevant corporate initiatives. and oversees the implementation of portions of Town wide action plans as they relate to economic development including the Dismantling Anti-Black Racism, and Downtown Strategy.
Credentials
University Degree in Business, Economics, or Marketing combined with progressive senior level, supervisory relevant experience, or an appropriate combination of education and relevant experience.
Membership with the Economic Development Association of Canada, professional Ec.D. designation or master’s level equivalent.
Class G Driver’s license in good standing and reliable vehicle for use on corporate business.
Due to the responsibilities of this position a Criminal Record & Judicial Matters Check satisfactory to the Town is required
Knowledge/Skills Required
Progressively responsible experience at a supervisory or management level.
Thorough understanding of the Ontario Municipal Act, Planning Act, and related regulations, (Official Plan, Zoning by-laws, etc.). Knowledge of land use planning process and applicable land use development principles.
Advanced knowledge and skills required to design, develop, and implement an economic development strategy combining strong data analysis, networking, relationship building and influencing practices.
Advanced knowledge of real estate principles and market trends.
Demonstrated experience working with cross corporately, ability to think strategically, business acumen, visionary/forward thinker.
Proven negotiating, mediation, analytical/problem solving, research skills, as well as project management, and organizational skills.
Strong knowledge and skills in research techniques and ability to interpret statistical and demographic information, apply information and statistical data in an economic development context.
Strong understanding of the economics of business, investment proposals and ability to monitor and interpret macro-economic trends. Understanding of business retention, expansion, and development.
Ability to think and act strategically in a political and community-based business environment.
Requires skills and ability to maintain a high standard of public relations when responding to business and media inquiries.
Excellent writing skills to prepare proposals, reports, media releases, letters and correspondence with legal content, presentations to a broad range of audiences.
Strong knowledge of budget preparation and management.
Knowledge in the art of developing collaborative working arrangements requiring facilitation, mediation, and negotiation techniques.
Excellent working knowledge of computer programs, MS Office Suite, and CRM database software applications.
Ability to work outside regular business hours on occasion as required.
Knowledge of applicable legislation, bylaws, legal proceedings and the ability to interpret legislation such as Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Employment Standards Act.
