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Economic Development Director

The City of Goodyear, Arizona, is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as its next Economic Development Director. This executive-level position is responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing the full scope of operations within the City's Economic Development Department. Key areas of responsibility include Business Attraction, Business Retention and Expansion, Redevelopment, the Goodyear Office of Tourism, and Goodyear's InnovationHub, as well as the integrated functions of data analytics and marketing/communications. The Director serves as the official representative of the department to elected officials, the City Manager's Office, internal departments, and external partners and agencies. This role leads the development and execution of the City's comprehensive business development strategy, working collaboratively to implement innovative programs and initiatives that position Goodyear as a premier destination for investment, business growth, and economic vitality.

The ideal candidate is a strategic and collaborative leader with deep experience in economic development and a strong understanding of public sector dynamics. They bring a track record of driving business attraction, retention, and redevelopment initiatives while successfully navigating complex partnerships, agreements, and stakeholder relationships. This individual is both analytical and forward-thinking, using market insights to inform decisions and position the community for long-term growth. Equally important, they are an effective communicator and relationship builder who can engage elected officials, business leaders, and the community with credibility and clarity, while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and teamwork within their department.

Recruitment Brochure Apply today as It's a Great time to be in Goodyear!

Essential Functions

This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The following functions do not identify all duties performed by the incumbent. Other duties and responsibilities will be performed as assigned.

• Directs and oversees the City's economic development program, including establishing department goals, policies, priorities, and managing the department budget.
• Leads the development, negotiation, and execution of complex development agreements, incentive packages, public-private partnerships, and redevelopment contracts, working collaboratively with the Legal Department to ensure compliance and risk mitigation.
• Advises City management, the Mayor, and City Council through briefings, presentations, and written reports on major economic development, redevelopment, tourism, and small business initiatives.
• Coordinates department activities and major projects with internal departments, external agencies, consultants, and private-sector partners, providing high-level support to the City Manager's Office.
• Develops and implements marketing, business attraction, retention, and expansion strategies that strengthen Goodyear's competitive position and support sustainable economic growth.
• Evaluates local, state, and national economic conditions and market trends to inform policy recommendations, program design, and long-term economic development strategies.
• Engages with community stakeholders, business leaders, and citizen groups to shape and execute short and long-term economic development and tourism objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (advanced certifications such as AZED Pro or CEcD preferred)
• Minimum of seven years of experience in economic development or a related field
• Valid driver's license
• Ability to read and interpret complex legal documents, contracts, and development plans
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills, including algebra and statistics
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting to executive leadership and elected officials
• Proven leadership experience managing teams, programs, and departmental operations
• Experience with budget development, oversight, and fiscal management
• Strong decision-making skills with the ability to operate independently within broad organizational goals
• Advanced technical knowledge related to economic development programs, strategy, and implementation
• High-level interpersonal and negotiation skills, with the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders