Chief of Housing, Planning, Workforce and Economic Development
City of Detroit, MI, Detroit, MI, United States
Salary:
$132,728.00 - $198,327.00 Annually
Location :
Coleman A Young Municipal Center, MI
Job Type:
Appointed (Other)
Job Number:
20254932014MAYORbb
Department:
Mayor's Office
Opening Date:
04/27/2026
Closing Date:
5/11/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit:
9020-Non Union Appointees Level I
Description
CHIEF OF HOUSING, PLANNING, WORKFORCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
This senior executive will primarily serve as the City's chief economic development lead. They will implement a comprehensive, citywide agenda that aligns housing, planning, land use and workforce development within the City's economic revitalization strategy as determined by the mayor's priorities. The role will oversee and work in partnership with high-level leadership, both internal and external to the City of Detroit, including but not limited to the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, ensuring integrated, equitable, and data-driven approaches to neighborhood revitalization, job creation, housing affordability, and sustainable economic growth.
Examples of Duties
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership and Vision
Develop, articulate, and implement a cohesive and sustainable economic development strategy for Detroit that integrates housing, planning, workforce development, and land use with the City's long-term goals.
Serve as the Mayor's principal advisor on economic development policy, public-private partnerships, financing strategies, and strategic investments.
Oversight of Departments and Agencies
Oversee executive leadership to the Departments of Housing and Revitalization, Planning, the Detroit Housing Commission, and Civil Rights & Inclusion Office.
Provide strategic direction and coordinate work with the Detroit Land Bank Authority, Detroit Housing Commission, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and various subsidiary boards & commissions to ensure alignment with citywide priorities, statutory requirements, and community needs leveraging your executive leadership team where appropriate.
Set performance standards, drive cross-departmental collaboration, and promote integrated delivery of programs, permits, incentives, and regulatory processes.
Housing, Planning, and Neighborhood Revitalization
Guide strategies to increase the development of housing of all typologies including single family, affordable, safe, and sustainable housing; address blight; support equitable neighborhood growth; advance zoning and land-use planning that reflects community input and growth objectives.
Oversee housing rehabilitation, public housing initiatives, homeownership and rental housing programs, and housing stability efforts.
Workforce Development and Talent Pipeline
Lead a citywide workforce strategy to expand job opportunities, skills training, and talent development that meet employer needs in existing and priority sectors giving Detroit a competitive advantage for growth. (e.g., advanced manufacturing, mobility, clean energy, skilled trades).
Coordinate with schools, community colleges, universities, workforce boards, philanthropic partners, and employers to create a robust talent pipeline and inclusive economic opportunities.
Economic Development and Real Estate
Identify and advance development projects and real estate opportunities that stimulate investment, job creation, affordable housing, and long-term revenue for the city.
Lead business attraction strategy to increase investment and attract industry within the City in targeted sectors that provide sustainable growth and clear employment opportunities for Detroiters.
Provide strategic direction for the prioritization and deployment of incentives, grant programs, tax increment financing (where applicable), and capital planning; manage relationships with developers, lenders, and federal/state program administrators.
Land Use, Tax Foreclosure, and Asset Disposition
Direct the DLBA's strategies for acquiring, maintaining, and efficiently disposing of city-owned and tax-foreclosed properties in a manner that revitalizes neighborhoods, delivers measurable public benefit and aligns with Master Plan and economic development strategies.
Public-Private Partnerships and Financing
Lead the pursuit and management of public-private partnerships, intergovernmental agreements, and financing mechanisms to fund housing and economic development initiatives.
Oversee grant administration and compliance, including federal (CDBG, HOME, ESG, etc.), state, and local funding sources; ensure rigorous performance measurement and reporting.
Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Ensure equity is embedded in all policies and investments; engage communities historically underserved or impacted by development decisions; promote transparent decision-making and accountability.
Policy Development, Regulatory Compliance, and Risk Management
Develop policy recommendations, modernization of regulatory frameworks, and urban design standards that support inclusive growth while protecting public interests.
Ensure compliance with applicable laws, ordinances, and procurement rules; oversee risk management and internal controls.
Performance, Analytics, and Reporting
Establish and monitor key performance indicators; produce regular reports on progress, outcomes, and fiscal impacts; present findings to the Mayor, City Council, and stakeholders.
Talent, Culture, and Organizational Excellence
Build and maintain a high-performing, diverse, and inclusive leadership team; foster professional development, succession planning, and cross-functional collaboration.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Preferred: Master's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Economics, Real Estate Development, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
Alternative: Juris Doctor (JD) or Master's in a related field plus substantial relevant experience.
Experience
Minimum: 12+ years of demonstrated experience in economic development, housing, planning, or related fields, with progressive leadership responsibility.
Senior leadership: 5+ years in a senior or executive management role overseeing multiple departments or agencies, ideally within municipal government or a public-sector context.
Depth in: public housing, urban planning, land use policy, real estate development, workforce development, blight remediation, community development and financing for capital projects (grants, incentives, tax strategies).
Equivalencies (Education/Experience)
A Bachelor's degree in a related field plus 14 - 20 years of relevant experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership position.
A Master's degree in a related field plus 8 - 12 years of progressively responsible public-sector leadership in housing, planning, or economic development.
A Juris Doctor (JD) or MBA plus 6 - 10 years of relevant leadership experience.
An established professional certification (e.g., AICP, CEcD, CPM) combined with relevant experience (minimum 8 - 12 years) may substitute for part of formal educational requirements.
A comparable mix of education, certifications, and hands-on leadership in municipal or regional economic development, housing, planning and land-use programs.
Licenses, Certifications and Licenses (optional but desirable)
AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners)
CEcD (Certified Economic Developer)
CPM (Certified Property Manager)
Other related professional credentials (as applicable)
Supplemental Information
Reports To: Deputy Mayor
Direct Reports: Executive Leads of the following, with their portfolios included below:
Senior Director of Housing and Planning
Planning and Development Department
The Housing and Revitalization Department
The Detroit Housing Commission
The Detroit Land Bank
Deputy Chief of Transformational Economic Development
The Jobs and Economy Team (JET)
Director, Civil Rights & Inclusion Office
Director, Office of Workforce Development
Job Type: Appointed - Full-time
Through support of Deputy Chief and Workforce Director, the Chief manages Operating Agreement and provides strategic direction to Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC), Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), Detroit Economic Development Corporation and other relevant boards and authorities managed within.
There is a similar relationship with DHC and DLBA but I'm not as familiar with those organizations and their legal relationship with the City and the influence expected of a chief given that distinction. If I'm a potential candidate, that is important point of clarification.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into actionable programs and budgets.
Deep knowledge of housing policy, zoning, land-use planning, redevelopment, brownfield remediation, and related regulatory frameworks.
Strong expertise in economic development financing, grants management, public-private partnerships, and capital planning.
Proven ability to lead diverse cross-functional teams, manage complex projects, and deliver results under tight deadlines.
Excellent political acumen, negotiation, and stakeholder management (community groups, developers, lenders, state/federal partners).
Data-driven decision making, performance measurement, and ability to communicate complex concepts clearly to varied audiences.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community engagement; culturally competent leadership and communication skills.
Financial and administrative acumen, including budgeting, contract management, and risk management.
Ability to represent the City externally with credibility and diplomacy.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:
HEALTH
Medical -
Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
Dental
Vision
INSURANCE
Life Insurance -
Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) -
The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.
PAID TIME OFF
Sick Leave
Vacation
Holidays
OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave,
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
• Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or
- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
• In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply);
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
• Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES -
Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of
Detroit
. Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of
Detroit
01
Please indicate your highest level of education completed:
High School Diploma/GED
Associate's Degree
Bachelor's Degree
Master's Degree
PhD/J.D.
No Education experience
02
How many years of experience do you have in
Less than 6 years of experience
6 or more years of experience
No Experience
03
Which of the following best describes your relevant professional experience? (Select all that apply)
Experience translating vision into actionable programs, budgets, and measurable outcomes.
Strong background in housing policy, zoning, land-use planning, redevelopment, and brownfield remediation within complex regulatory environments.
Proven experience in economic development financing, grants management, public-private partnerships, and capital planning.
Demonstrates the ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage large-scale projects, and deliver results under tight deadlines.
Strong experience working with community groups, developers, lenders, and government partners, with effective negotiation and relationship management skills.
Experience using data and performance metrics to inform decisions, with the ability to clearly communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
Demonstrates a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, supported by experience in budgeting, contract administration, and risk management. Brings the ability to represent the organization with professionalism, sound judgment, and credibility in both internal and external settings.
No Experience
04
Which of the following transferable skills do you possess? (Select all that apply)
Strategic planning and vision setting
Operational leadership and process improvement
Financial management and budgeting
Talent development and team leadership
Stakeholder engagement and relationship management
Change management and organizational transformation
Policy development and governance
N/A
05
Have you ever been, or are you currently, a resident of the City of Detroit?
YES
NO
06
Have you ever worked for the City of Detroit?
YES
NO
Required Question
$132,728.00 - $198,327.00 Annually
Location :
Coleman A Young Municipal Center, MI
Job Type:
Appointed (Other)
Job Number:
20254932014MAYORbb
Department:
Mayor's Office
Opening Date:
04/27/2026
Closing Date:
5/11/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit:
9020-Non Union Appointees Level I
Description
CHIEF OF HOUSING, PLANNING, WORKFORCE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
This senior executive will primarily serve as the City's chief economic development lead. They will implement a comprehensive, citywide agenda that aligns housing, planning, land use and workforce development within the City's economic revitalization strategy as determined by the mayor's priorities. The role will oversee and work in partnership with high-level leadership, both internal and external to the City of Detroit, including but not limited to the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, ensuring integrated, equitable, and data-driven approaches to neighborhood revitalization, job creation, housing affordability, and sustainable economic growth.
Examples of Duties
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership and Vision
Develop, articulate, and implement a cohesive and sustainable economic development strategy for Detroit that integrates housing, planning, workforce development, and land use with the City's long-term goals.
Serve as the Mayor's principal advisor on economic development policy, public-private partnerships, financing strategies, and strategic investments.
Oversight of Departments and Agencies
Oversee executive leadership to the Departments of Housing and Revitalization, Planning, the Detroit Housing Commission, and Civil Rights & Inclusion Office.
Provide strategic direction and coordinate work with the Detroit Land Bank Authority, Detroit Housing Commission, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and various subsidiary boards & commissions to ensure alignment with citywide priorities, statutory requirements, and community needs leveraging your executive leadership team where appropriate.
Set performance standards, drive cross-departmental collaboration, and promote integrated delivery of programs, permits, incentives, and regulatory processes.
Housing, Planning, and Neighborhood Revitalization
Guide strategies to increase the development of housing of all typologies including single family, affordable, safe, and sustainable housing; address blight; support equitable neighborhood growth; advance zoning and land-use planning that reflects community input and growth objectives.
Oversee housing rehabilitation, public housing initiatives, homeownership and rental housing programs, and housing stability efforts.
Workforce Development and Talent Pipeline
Lead a citywide workforce strategy to expand job opportunities, skills training, and talent development that meet employer needs in existing and priority sectors giving Detroit a competitive advantage for growth. (e.g., advanced manufacturing, mobility, clean energy, skilled trades).
Coordinate with schools, community colleges, universities, workforce boards, philanthropic partners, and employers to create a robust talent pipeline and inclusive economic opportunities.
Economic Development and Real Estate
Identify and advance development projects and real estate opportunities that stimulate investment, job creation, affordable housing, and long-term revenue for the city.
Lead business attraction strategy to increase investment and attract industry within the City in targeted sectors that provide sustainable growth and clear employment opportunities for Detroiters.
Provide strategic direction for the prioritization and deployment of incentives, grant programs, tax increment financing (where applicable), and capital planning; manage relationships with developers, lenders, and federal/state program administrators.
Land Use, Tax Foreclosure, and Asset Disposition
Direct the DLBA's strategies for acquiring, maintaining, and efficiently disposing of city-owned and tax-foreclosed properties in a manner that revitalizes neighborhoods, delivers measurable public benefit and aligns with Master Plan and economic development strategies.
Public-Private Partnerships and Financing
Lead the pursuit and management of public-private partnerships, intergovernmental agreements, and financing mechanisms to fund housing and economic development initiatives.
Oversee grant administration and compliance, including federal (CDBG, HOME, ESG, etc.), state, and local funding sources; ensure rigorous performance measurement and reporting.
Equity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement
Ensure equity is embedded in all policies and investments; engage communities historically underserved or impacted by development decisions; promote transparent decision-making and accountability.
Policy Development, Regulatory Compliance, and Risk Management
Develop policy recommendations, modernization of regulatory frameworks, and urban design standards that support inclusive growth while protecting public interests.
Ensure compliance with applicable laws, ordinances, and procurement rules; oversee risk management and internal controls.
Performance, Analytics, and Reporting
Establish and monitor key performance indicators; produce regular reports on progress, outcomes, and fiscal impacts; present findings to the Mayor, City Council, and stakeholders.
Talent, Culture, and Organizational Excellence
Build and maintain a high-performing, diverse, and inclusive leadership team; foster professional development, succession planning, and cross-functional collaboration.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Preferred: Master's degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Economics, Real Estate Development, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
Alternative: Juris Doctor (JD) or Master's in a related field plus substantial relevant experience.
Experience
Minimum: 12+ years of demonstrated experience in economic development, housing, planning, or related fields, with progressive leadership responsibility.
Senior leadership: 5+ years in a senior or executive management role overseeing multiple departments or agencies, ideally within municipal government or a public-sector context.
Depth in: public housing, urban planning, land use policy, real estate development, workforce development, blight remediation, community development and financing for capital projects (grants, incentives, tax strategies).
Equivalencies (Education/Experience)
A Bachelor's degree in a related field plus 14 - 20 years of relevant experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership position.
A Master's degree in a related field plus 8 - 12 years of progressively responsible public-sector leadership in housing, planning, or economic development.
A Juris Doctor (JD) or MBA plus 6 - 10 years of relevant leadership experience.
An established professional certification (e.g., AICP, CEcD, CPM) combined with relevant experience (minimum 8 - 12 years) may substitute for part of formal educational requirements.
A comparable mix of education, certifications, and hands-on leadership in municipal or regional economic development, housing, planning and land-use programs.
Licenses, Certifications and Licenses (optional but desirable)
AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners)
CEcD (Certified Economic Developer)
CPM (Certified Property Manager)
Other related professional credentials (as applicable)
Supplemental Information
Reports To: Deputy Mayor
Direct Reports: Executive Leads of the following, with their portfolios included below:
Senior Director of Housing and Planning
Planning and Development Department
The Housing and Revitalization Department
The Detroit Housing Commission
The Detroit Land Bank
Deputy Chief of Transformational Economic Development
The Jobs and Economy Team (JET)
Director, Civil Rights & Inclusion Office
Director, Office of Workforce Development
Job Type: Appointed - Full-time
Through support of Deputy Chief and Workforce Director, the Chief manages Operating Agreement and provides strategic direction to Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation (DESC), Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), Detroit Economic Development Corporation and other relevant boards and authorities managed within.
There is a similar relationship with DHC and DLBA but I'm not as familiar with those organizations and their legal relationship with the City and the influence expected of a chief given that distinction. If I'm a potential candidate, that is important point of clarification.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into actionable programs and budgets.
Deep knowledge of housing policy, zoning, land-use planning, redevelopment, brownfield remediation, and related regulatory frameworks.
Strong expertise in economic development financing, grants management, public-private partnerships, and capital planning.
Proven ability to lead diverse cross-functional teams, manage complex projects, and deliver results under tight deadlines.
Excellent political acumen, negotiation, and stakeholder management (community groups, developers, lenders, state/federal partners).
Data-driven decision making, performance measurement, and ability to communicate complex concepts clearly to varied audiences.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community engagement; culturally competent leadership and communication skills.
Financial and administrative acumen, including budgeting, contract management, and risk management.
Ability to represent the City externally with credibility and diplomacy.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:
HEALTH
Medical -
Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
Dental
Vision
INSURANCE
Life Insurance -
Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) -
The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.
PAID TIME OFF
Sick Leave
Vacation
Holidays
OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave,
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
• Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or
- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
• In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply);
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
• Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES -
Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of
Detroit
. Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of
Detroit
01
Please indicate your highest level of education completed:
High School Diploma/GED
Associate's Degree
Bachelor's Degree
Master's Degree
PhD/J.D.
No Education experience
02
How many years of experience do you have in
Less than 6 years of experience
6 or more years of experience
No Experience
03
Which of the following best describes your relevant professional experience? (Select all that apply)
Experience translating vision into actionable programs, budgets, and measurable outcomes.
Strong background in housing policy, zoning, land-use planning, redevelopment, and brownfield remediation within complex regulatory environments.
Proven experience in economic development financing, grants management, public-private partnerships, and capital planning.
Demonstrates the ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage large-scale projects, and deliver results under tight deadlines.
Strong experience working with community groups, developers, lenders, and government partners, with effective negotiation and relationship management skills.
Experience using data and performance metrics to inform decisions, with the ability to clearly communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
Demonstrates a strong commitment to equity and inclusion, supported by experience in budgeting, contract administration, and risk management. Brings the ability to represent the organization with professionalism, sound judgment, and credibility in both internal and external settings.
No Experience
04
Which of the following transferable skills do you possess? (Select all that apply)
Strategic planning and vision setting
Operational leadership and process improvement
Financial management and budgeting
Talent development and team leadership
Stakeholder engagement and relationship management
Change management and organizational transformation
Policy development and governance
N/A
05
Have you ever been, or are you currently, a resident of the City of Detroit?
YES
NO
06
Have you ever worked for the City of Detroit?
YES
NO
Required Question