Economic Development Program Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Economic Development Coordinator reports directly to the Executive Director. The primary responsibility is to develop, maintain and enhance all functions of the EDC. This position is primarily the first point of contact for all communication and inquiries into the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City’s office and will direct those inquiries and respond appropriately, overseeing and providing support for community and economic development projects/initiatives, small business initiatives, and communications. He/she will provide administrative support to the Operations Director but not limited to event planning and other administrative functions. Additionally, managing the Vibrant Michigan City Playbook will be the responsibility of the Economic Development Coordinator.

Examples of work to be assigned:

Existing Business and Retention:

·       Assist the Economic Development team in implementing BRE Plan/Strategy

·       Conduct project management functions using CRM

·       Assist the Economic Development team with existing business outreach programs that include but are not limited to existing business surveying, direct mailing campaigns, and roundtable forums

·       Manage and coordinate recruitment opportunities for local employers

·       Research and create database for business assistance

Small Business and Entrepreneurship:

·       Create, coordinate and implement small business programs and have a working knowledge of what resources are available to small businesses

·       Assist the Executive Director in the creation and execution of strategic initiatives to further strengthen the resources available to small businesses and entrepreneurs

·       Work with the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce – SBDC, SCORE on Small Business and Entrepreneurship programs

Community Outreach and Marketing:

·       Assist and support the Executive Director with investor relations and investor development programs

·       Develop and distribute community updates, newsletter for public officials, investors, stakeholders, partners and the general public

·       Maintain and update the website and other social media communications

·       Create and maintain contact databases of site consultants, commercial brokers and corporate management

·       Provide support and coordination for EDCMC events

·       Participate in economic development marketing efforts with partners

Community Development and Administrative Support:

·       Develop and implement guidelines for Small Business Grant, Vibrant Michigan City and Neighborhood Leadership Academy initiatives - serve as the lead convener in these economic growth efforts, working with staff, business community and residents.

·       Assist with tracking and time commitment to ensure compliance with grants terms and conditions.

·       Monthly Financial reconciliation of EDC office expenses and awards to ensure expenses are recorded accurately, and close-out is properly executed.

·       Compile and submit all reporting requirements as outlined by federal and state grants in accordance with mandated guidelines.

·       Provide general office administrative support

Qualifications:

·       Bachelor’s degree in social sciences or business areas.

·       1- 3 years’ experience working in Economic Development or related experience

·       Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, QuickBooks, Publisher, PowerPoint, CRM, Outlook and Internet Tools (esp. Social Media)

·       Ability to work independently and to manage multiple projects and priorities

·       Excellent oral and written communication skills, outgoing and energetic demeanor

·       Strong interpersonal skills

. Strong office knowledge and administrative skills

·       Strong organizational management and relationship development skills

Desired Skills & Experience:

·       Must demonstrate technical aptitude in site development and possess the ability to analyze and interpret complex infrastructure information from engineering firms and present to business prospects in a clear, concise, and attractive manner

·       Must understand industrial and commercial real estate terminology and convey salient information to prospective clients

·       Ability to work collaboratively and develop partnerships in the community with governments, college staff, and employers

·       Have a working knowledge of local and state incentive programs for existing businesses as well as private and not-for-profit business resources

·       2- 3 years’ experience working knowledge and/ or ability to become familiar with research/grant accounting environment, non-profit accounting, local governments.

·       Strong analytical and writing skills

·       At least 2 years related work experience

·       BA/BS in Economics, Public Policy, Marketing, Business, or related field

·       High integrity, capacity to learn quickly, high intrinsic motivation, and grit

·       Strong organization and communication skills (writing, public speaking, and listening)

·       Experience working with diverse groups of professionals and community leaders

·       Strong computer and website skills, including using online tools and expertise in Microsoft Office software – Teams, CRM, social media, mapping)

·       Attention to detail

·       Strong interpersonal skills

·       Ability to work in a fast-paced environment (aka “start-up” ethos) and can-do attitude

These statements reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak periods or otherwise balance the workload.

Classification:

Classification: Exempt, Full-Time Position (40 hours per week)

EDCMC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. WE VALUE AND WELCOME DIVERSITY OF ETHNIC, CULTURAL, RELIGIOUS, SOCIO-ECONOMIC, POLITICAL BACKGROUNDS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION/IDENTIFICATION, AND ABILITIES