Executive Director - Economic Development Corporation

at Coeur d'Alene Area Economic Development Corp. in Hayden, Idaho, United States

Job Description

The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and serves as the chief executive of the economic development organization. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall strategic direction, leadership, membership development, fundraising, and operational management of the organization.

This role works closely with public and private sector stakeholders to promote regional economic growth, attract investment, support business retention and expansion, and enhance the community’s economic vitality. The Executive Director leads a small, high-performing team and manages an annual operating budget while leveraging strategic partnerships, board leadership, and regional collaboration to advance economic development initiatives.

The Executive Director supervises a staff of 2–3 team members and coordinates outsourced financial and administrative services to maximize organizational efficiency and impact.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive economic development strategy aligned with the organization’s mission and regional priorities.

• Identify regional supply-chain gaps and target industries that complement and strengthen existing employers.

• Lead efforts to attract new businesses, retain existing companies, and support entrepreneurial development.

• Identify and pursue funding opportunities including grants, partnerships, and member investment growth.

• Monitor and analyze economic trends to guide strategic initiatives and regional competitiveness.

Stakeholder Engagement & Regional Collaboration

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for the organization across business, government, community, and media audiences.

• Build strong relationships with municipal partners, legislators, education leaders, and economic development stakeholders.

• Utilize Board member networks strategically to strengthen partnerships, advance projects, and expand opportunities.

• Establish consistent communication rhythms with regional partners to ensure alignment and collaboration.

• Facilitate cooperation between municipalities, businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations.

Membership Development & Investor Engagement

• Attract, retain, and engage member investors who support the organization’s mission and initiatives.

• Cultivate relationships with key employers and industry leaders throughout the region.

• Demonstrate strong sales and outreach capability to promote the region and expand investment support.

Organizational Leadership & Operations

• Lead and support a small professional team while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and results.

• Modernize internal processes and systems to ensure the organization remains responsive, efficient, and forward-thinking.

• Oversee daily operations including budgeting, program development, performance measurement, and reporting.

• Manage partnerships with outsourced financial and administrative service providers to maintain operational efficiency.

• Ensure compliance with all legal, financial, and ethical standards.

• Provide regular reports to the Board of Directors on strategy execution, financial health, and organizational performance.

Marketing, Communications & Regional Promotion

• Develop and lead a unified regional marketing strategy in partnership with municipalities and regional partners.

• Promote the region to prospective employers, investors, and stakeholders.

• Deliver clear, compelling messages that communicate the region’s opportunities and economic strengths.

• Utilize storytelling and data-driven messaging to elevate the region’s visibility and competitiveness.

• Strengthen the organization’s digital presence and marketing tools to support business recruitment and community engagement.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Economics, Urban Planning, or related field (Master’s preferred).

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in economic development, business development, public administration, or related fields.

• Demonstrated success in business recruitment, partnership development, or regional economic growth initiatives.

• Proven experience working with boards, public-sector partners, and private-sector stakeholders.

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic and visionary leadership with strong execution capabilities.

• Exceptional communication and storytelling ability.

• Strong political awareness and ability to navigate public-private partnerships.

• Proven relationship-building skills across business, government, and community leaders.

• Sales and marketing mindset with comfort promoting and pitching regional opportunities.

• Ability to manage complex initiatives and lead a small, high-performing team.

• Capacity to modernize systems and processes while maintaining organizational stability.

 Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

• Performance-based incentives

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and professional development support.