This is responsible professional work managing a variety of projects and activities related to development activity in the City of Rock Island.

Work involves meeting with new and existing businesses to determine type of assistance which may be appropriate; explaining and determining the application of development programs to various projects; calculating and evaluating the fiscal impact of development projects on the city; working with state and federal agencies to obtain support for specific development activities; negotiating and drafting development agreements.
Examples of Duties: Promotes economic development in the City of Rock Island through personal contacts with existing business and professional development groups; assists with transfer and expansion projects by locating appropriate sites; coordinates projects with other city departments and governmental agencies; provides information and promotional material to potential prospects.

Develops and administers economic development incentive programs.

Develops the City's comprehensive economic development plan including data on business conditions, attraction and retention strategies and goals, marketing plans, strategies for securing private investment in the City's economic development projects.

Contacts existing industry and business representatives to identify any problems and recommends changes to enhance the city's business climate.

Develops and fosters relationships with local business owners to help in business retention and growth throughout the community.

Meets with representatives of local lending institutions and advises them of economic development projects to solicit their support and participation.

Answers public inquiries and responds to requests for information such as market data, tax structure and liability and financing possibilities and procedures.

Prepares reports and correspondence.

Performs a variety of real estate functions including the negotiation of the sale, purchase and option of properties.

Answers public inquiries and responds to requests for information such as market data, tax structure and liability and financing possibilities and procedures; maintains data regarding community economic conditions.

Provides effective and efficient customer services and promotes and maintains responsive community relations.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications: Graduation from a four year college or university with major course work in marketing, business administration or a related field; considerable experience in economic development or related activity; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, abilities and skills.

Considerable knowledge of industrial and community development programs.

Considerable knowledge of marketing principles and practices.

Considerable knowledge of industrial and commercial growth activity.

Considerable knowledge of economic development, finance and business analysis.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with industry and business representatives, City officials and the general public.

Ability to coordinate special projects teams and multiple projects and to respond quickly to prospect leads.

Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
Supplemental Information: Possession of valid Class D Illinois driver's license or an equivalent license from the employees state of residence.