The Township of Millburn seeks a qualified professional for the position of Economic Development Director (EDD). This position shall be employed by the Township and report directly to the Township Business Administrator (BA). Additionally, this position will serve as the Executive Director and Chairperson of the Explore Millburn-Short Hill Special Improvement District (SID) Board of Trustees.
Municipal Economic Development:The EDD will support and lead the Township's goals to attract, retain, expand, and assist new and existing Millburn businesses through the development of programs and initiatives to support those. The EDD will also serve as a liaison between the Township's business community and local government by offering assistance through processes such as land use and permitting. The goal is to generate business opportunity and growth, through which the residents and community benefit.
SID:Explore Millburn-Short Hills is a 501(c)(3) non-profit Special Improvement District. There is a Board of Trustees appointed by the Township Committee. The Board sets the overall policy of the organization, and it consists of retail business owners, property owners, and residents. The mission is to enhance Millburn's economic vitality and improve the visual appearance of the areas within the SID's jurisdiction.
As the Executive Director of the SID, the EDD shall direct, manage, and implement the activities, programs, and affairs of the SID and perform such other SID-related duties as may be assigned.
Position Qualifications:- Ability to use resources effectively and to work independently and collaboratively with a diverse and passionate group of stakeholders.
- Self-starter, flexible, open-minded, creative thinker, who is able to multi-task and manage several projects at once.
- Strong financial oversight and planning capabilities.
- Strong written, verbal, and public speaking and communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, Constant Contact, Canva, Adobe, and various social media outlets (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn)
- Knowledge of: municipal zoning and planning; NJ State Economic Development and Workforce Development programs; economic development and long-term planning; and statistical, financial, and economic research methodology.
- Leadership skills with a team of staff and and/or consultants as may be contracted.
- Education: Bachelor's degree required, preferred in a field such as: Business Management, Urban and Regional Planning, Small Business Management, Marketing, Economics, Finance, or similar fields.
- Education:Master's degree is a plus but not required, preferred in a field such as: Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban and Regional Planning, Economics, Finance, Marketing, etc.
Responsibilities:The EDD responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Management/Administration
- Lead and manage the newly formed Economic Development Department.
- Prepare a series of recommendations and a formal proposal to the BA regarding how the newly formed Department of Economic Development will be staffed, organized, and run for review and approval by the BA, as well as how the SID and Department will interface and collaborate where appropriate. This is expected to be completed within the first six (6) months of employment.
- Perform daily administrative functions for the SID Board of Trustees, subcommittees, and membership.
- Supervise office staff, consultants, interns and volunteers.
- Prepare and distribute Monthly Agenda with attachments for SID Board of Trustees meetings, and other meetings as may be required. Attend all meetings as required.
- Maintain accurate database of business movement both within the SID and the wider Township: new businesses, change of business ownership, change of property owners, and vacancies that occur. Records must indicate what is inside vs. outside the SID jurisdiction.
- Prepare monthly key performance indicator (KPI) statistics to track objectives, accomplishments, and goal progress.
- Schedule and notice SID meetings.
- This position shall also perform other duties as assigned by the BA.
- Financial
- Prepare and present annual budget and work plans to the SID Board and committees for approval. Present budget to the Township Committee.
- Manage daily and monthly board financial matters. Prepare all documents for monthly board meetings, yearly budgets and meetings with auditor/accountant.
- Seek grant opportunities for the SID and Millburn Township. Manage grant awards and associated projects at the direction of the BA.
- Prepare separate annual budgets for the Department of Economic Development and the SID.
- Communication
- Communicate and provide information to the Board of Trustees on appropriate issues that affect the SID.
- Develop strategies for effective communications and foster a strong relationship with downtown businesses, stakeholders and the community.
- Attend and participate in various Township organization meetings including, but not limited to, Township Committee, Planning Board and Zoning Board meetings to promote the views and concerns of the SID and Stakeholders.
- Economic Development
- Develop a 5-Year Economic Development Plan for the Township of Millburn within the first two (2) years of employment.
- Help retain existing businesses and recruit new businesses.
- Work with Township personnel (Building, Tax, Clerk, Zoning Departments, etc.) to act as a dedicated business liaison for Township staff and businesses, so as to simplify various processes.
- Work with local commercial brokers to help bring new business to the Township.
- Respond to and collaborate with commercial real estate brokers, property owners, and business owners.
- Advise on and draft various ordinances to promote economic goals for the BA.
- Under the direction of the BA, act as a liaison for various outside organizations.
- Research and track market and economic trends.
- Various goals and plans should address the SID separate from the wider Township as appropriate.
- Marketing/Retail Support
- Understand key issues and challenges confronting downtown businesses and property owners and work to address them. Maintain strong visibility and communication with stakeholders.
- Oversee marketing programs, public relations strategies, special events and promotions that help drive business for DMDA businesses.
- Develop a municipal marketing plan within two (2) years of employment.
Work Schedule: full-time schedule, 35 hours per week. Once per month evening meeting required. Evening, early morning, and weekend work as required for various functions and special events related to the SID and other municipal economic development responsibilities.
Compensation: Paid time off, benefits, and salary range of $110,440 - $151,724, commensurate with experience. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to [redacted].
