Director Strategic Initiatives Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview
The Executive Director is the chief executive officer and senior management leader of the Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA). This position is responsible for setting and executing the organization’s strategic vision, advancing regional economic development priorities, and ensuring NNDA’s financial sustainability and operational excellence.
Reporting directly to the Executive Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves as NNDA’s primary spokesperson and lead representative to business leaders, elected officials, government agencies, utilities, workforce partners, and community stakeholders at the local, state, and national levels.
The Executive Director is expected to provide strong, transparent leadership; build high-impact partnerships; and advance initiatives that support business attraction, retention, expansion, workforce development, manufacturing growth, and long-term economic resilience across Northern Nevada.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Board Leadership & Governance
• Serve as the principal liaison between NNDA staff and the Executive Board of Directors
• Provide timely, accurate, and actionable information to support effective board governance and decision-making
• Advise the Board on strategic opportunities, organizational risks, and regional economic trends
• Support Board leadership in Executive and General Board meetings

Strategic Leadership & Economic Development
• Lead the development and execution of NNDA’s strategic plan and annual work program
• Advance regional economic development initiatives, including business attraction, retention, expansion, manufacturing development, and workforce development
• Identify emerging economic opportunities, industry trends, and competitive advantages relevant to Northern Nevada
• Strengthen NNDA’s role as a trusted convener and leader in regional economic strategy

Financial Management & Sustainability
• Ensure the fiscal integrity and long-term financial health of the organization
• Prepare and manage the annual operating budget and provide regular financial reporting to the Board
• Oversee contracts, grants, and financial commitments within Board-approved authority
• Lead fundraising, sponsorship development, grants, and diversified revenue strategies

Organizational & Operational Leadership
• Oversee day-to-day operations and administration of NNDA
• Hire, supervise, develop, and retain a high-performing professional staff
• Establish and maintain effective administrative, financial, and personnel policies
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit governance standards and applicable laws

External Relations & Communications
• Serve as NNDA’s chief spokesperson to government officials, business leaders, media, and the public
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local, state, and federal partners
• Oversee marketing, communications, and outreach efforts to enhance NNDA’s visibility and impact
• Represent NNDA at conferences, meetings, and public events

Education & Experience Requirements:
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum of 5 years of senior leadership experience
• Demonstrated experience in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and financial oversight
• Proven ability to work effectively with boards, public agencies, and private-sector stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications
• Master’s degree (MBA, Economics, or related field)
• Educational background in Economics, Business, Finance, Construction, Engineering, or related discipline
• Experience in:
o Economic Development
o Business Development
o Workforce Development
o Nonprofit, public-sector, or quasi-public organizations
• Experience with manufacturing operations or manufacturing-focused development, including one or more of the following:
o Industrial site selection, development, or expansion
o Manufacturing operations, production environments, or supply chain coordination
o Capital investment projects, infrastructure planning, or facility development
o Workforce planning and talent development for manufacturing or advanced industries
o Familiarity with infrastructure, utilities, industrial development, or large-scale economic projects
o Knowledge of Nevada’s economic, regulatory, and political environment

Core Competencies
• Visionary and strategic leadership
• High integrity, transparency, and professionalism
• Strong financial acumen and budget management skills
• Excellent written, verbal, and public speaking abilities
• Ability to build consensus and collaborate across diverse stakeholder groups
• Strong organizational, analytical, and decision-making skills

Location & Residency
This position is open to candidates nationwide.
Preference will be given to candidates who currently reside in Nevada or who demonstrate strong professional ties to the state.

The Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA) is the state-designated Regional Development Authority (RDA) for the Northern Nevada. The NNDA region consists of Carson City (state capital), Douglas County, Lyon County, Mineral County, and Storey County. Established in 1981, the organization is a Nevada domestic nonprofit corporation 501-C6.