Economic Development Director

Overview

Under general direction, leads the implementation of the City of Victoria’s Economic Development Strategic Plan by coordinating partnerships, driving business recruitment and retention efforts, and supporting strategic growth initiatives. This position serves as a primary liaison with developers, business leaders, regional partners, and governmental agencies to promote a pro-business environment and attract new investment. The role also manages the Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation (Type B) and departmental budgets, aligns with City Council goals, advances redevelopment initiatives, oversees incentive programs, and supports funding opportunities. Provides data-driven analysis, reports, and recommendations to leadership and plays a key role in shaping economic growth and long-term community success.

Responsibilities

• Spearheads the implementation of the Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City of Victoria.
• Oversees the departmental budget and financial activities related to economic development initiatives and partner organizations; coordinates with partners (e.g., Victoria Port Authority, Victoria Regional Airport, Victoria County, A&M-Victoria, Victoria College, Workforce Solutions Golden Crescent, Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation (VSTDC), and the Victoria Economic Development Corporation (VEDC).
• Develops short- and long-term economic and community development plans; conducts research, prepares studies, reports, and recommendations; collaborates with the City Planning Department on future land use initiatives.
• Prepares and maintains data related to demographics, utilities, taxes, transportation, community services, financing tools, and incentives to respond to information requests and deliver comprehensive reports.
• Provides guidance on economic development; assists with application and permitting; advocates for the City’s priorities and coordinates with external partners to maintain regional presence.
• Collaborates with the Victoria Chamber of Commerce, A&M-Victoria SBDC, VEDC, and other boards to foster a pro-business environment.
• Attracts prospective commercial and retail developments using a well-defined marketing strategy; establishes relationships with developers to identify growth opportunities.
• Promotes business retention and expansion by building relationships with local employers and business owners; maintains detailed documentation as part of the BRE program.
• Oversees real estate and redevelopment initiatives, including City-owned properties and development agreements.
• Identifies and pursues funding opportunities from public and private sources; serves as primary contact for the Governor’s Office of Economic Development & Tourism, developers, site selectors, brokers, and entrepreneurs (in coordination with VEDC).
• Acts as liaison with local, state, and federal agencies; coordinates projects as needed.
• Provides information and presentations to supervisors, boards, commissions, civic groups, businesses, and the public on economic development issues, programs, services, and plans.
• Manages market incentive programs such as tax abatements, grants, and public-private partnerships.
• Engages with foreign direct investment stakeholders and international counterparts; collaborates with the U.S. Commercial Service.
• Attends relevant City Council, VSTDC, Downtown TIRZ, Housing Finance Corporation, and Public Facility Corporation meetings as needed to support economic development needs.
• Participates in industry associations, conventions, conferences, and trade shows; pursues continuing education opportunities.
• Performs related duties as required or assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning or related field AND seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in community or economic development; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

• Applicable local, state, and federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances
• General office operations and administrative functions
• Records management and retention requirements
• Supervisory principles
• Budget development and administration
• Data analysis and reporting principles
• Economic development program planning and administration
• Grant and contract management
• Municipal planning and development processes

Skills

• Strong knowledge of economic development tools, incentives, and financing mechanisms.
• Understanding of real estate development underwriting preferred.
• Ability to interpret plans, codes, and ordinances.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage budgets, organize priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Effective leadership and supervision of staff.
• Proficiency in data entry, recordkeeping, and maintaining accurate files.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise reports and present to varied audiences.
• Ability to interact tactfully and professionally with staff, agencies, and the public.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with GIS, AI, CRM systems or economic development software.

Required Contacts

• Employee has direct contact with citizens and all levels of employees when answering inquiries.

Licenses and Certifications

• Must possess a valid State driver’s license that meets the city guideline.
• CEcD, EDFP, or EDP certification or completion of recognized economic development program (e.g., PCED, IEDC, GrowAmerica, or TEDC) is preferred.

The City of Victoria offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees that includes but not limited to: health, dental and vision insurance, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) with a 2:1 City match, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, sick leave, paid parental leave, longevity pay and credit union.

Please visit the Human Resources Department's benefits page for more details.

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