ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR

About the Role

Be part of a city delivering real economic impact – now hiring: Economic Development & Public Affairs Director. The City of San Marcos is seeking an Economic Development & Public Affairs Director to lead economic development efforts that drive investment and deliver measurable results for the community.

Why This Role Matters

Economic development in San Marcos is guided by data, strategy, and a focus on measurable outcomes. With a Strategic Economic Development Plan underway, this role is central to ensuring that priorities are implemented effectively and produce meaningful outcomes for the community. You will lead the execution of the city’s economic development strategy by using market data, industry analysis, and fiscal insight to guide decisions, attract targeted investment, and move projects forward. Working across departments, you will help ensure development opportunities progress with clarity, coordination, and momentum. This role is defined by implementation and impact; success is reflected in measurable outcomes, including job creation, tax base growth, and strategic development aligned with community priorities.

This Is Your Chance To

• Turn economic development strategy into measurable results
• Shape and advance a strong pipeline of development and business opportunities
• Use data and market intelligence to guide high‑impact decisions
• Partner across the organization to move projects efficiently from concept to completion
• Deliver visible outcomes that strengthen the city’s long‑term economic future

Recruitment Timeline

• Applications accepted through 4:00 p.m. April 30
• Well‑qualified applicants will be invited to a panel interview the week of May 11
• Final candidates will meet with city leadership the week of May 18

Key Responsibilities

• Translate strategic priorities into clear initiatives, work‑plans, and near‑term actions
• Coordinate across departments to advance priority projects and initiatives
• Align development activity with the city’s broader economic goals and community vision
• Identify opportunities to refine or evolve the strategy based on emerging trends and project experience
• Establish clear and practical metrics to track development activity, project pipelines, and progress over time
• Monitor key projects and initiatives, including status, milestones, and potential economic impacts
• Provide regular, concise updates to leadership and stakeholders that highlight progress, key developments, and what’s ahead
• Build and maintain productive relationships with developers, brokers, business leaders, and industry partners
• Serve as a key point of coordination and support for development projects, helping stakeholders navigate city processes and requirements
• Partner closely with Development Services and other departments to align efforts and facilitate successful project outcomes
• Support problem‑solving and coordination across stakeholders to keep projects moving forward
• Ensure development efforts are aligned with Council priorities and reflect the values of the community

Key Experience

• Building strong, trust‑based relationships across Planning, Development Services, Finance, and city leadership
• Understanding and navigating internal processes, constraints, and competing priorities
• Identifying and resolving barriers that may delay or prevent development projects
• Facilitating coordination across departments to ensure development projects aligned with city priorities are moved efficiently from concept to completion

Use Data and Market Insight to Inform Decisions

The ideal candidate is comfortable working with a range of analytical inputs, including market and industry trends, labor force and demographic data, and fiscal and economic impact analyses.

Outcomes Associated With This Work

• Job creation and retention within the community
• Growth and diversification of the city’s tax base
• Attraction and expansion of targeted industries
• Activation and development of key sites

Align Economic Development With Community Priorities

• Strengthening the local economy and supporting existing and new businesses
• Expanding workforce and economic opportunities for residents
• Maintaining community character while supporting thoughtful growth and innovation

Review the job description for a full listing of the representative duties and qualifications.

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