The Starke County Economic Development Foundation, Inc., headquartered in Knox, Indiana, is searching for an executive director. He or she will be the chief executive officer and will report to the Board of Directors. The Director is responsible for promoting commercial and industrial growth in Starke County through retention and expansion of existing industry as well as the identification and attraction of new industries and businesses.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create and implement a long-term plan that communicates Starke County Economic Development Foundations vison, goals and objectives, and the actions needed to achieve the principles set forth in the strategic plan.
• Serve as initial contact for industries and businesses considering new location or expansion; show sites and arrange meetings with local officials.
• Address the talent needs of business and industry within the local areas to support stability and economic growth.
• Ensure that all business services available through Starke County Economic Development Foundation are well communicated to the local business community and are continually used for business support and work enhancement.
• Raise the visibility of workforce development as an essential component of economic development in the local area.
• Communicate closely with the community, county, city, regional, state, and national organizations to ensure workforce development efforts are successful in addressing the needs of business, and within the priorities of those needs.
• Oversee clean, high-quality communication messages and presence on the web, on social media, in public campaigns, and in the community actions.
• Identify the secure development collaborative ventures and additional resources in support of the organization mission.

Essential Job Functions:

• Develop and implement policies and procedures approved by the board.
• Oversee and inform the board of organizational and administrative matters.
• Report on significant developments and trends in the workforce development field.
• Build partnerships with private sector leaders to gain further information about current and projected employment trends and issues within the local area.

Requirements:

• Minimum of three years, preferably five years, experience in program or business administration, hospitality or human resources management, legal professions, or other executive level functions.
• Minimum three years’ experience in the employment and training field.
• Good communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to make program, operational, and administrative decisions.
• Ability to speak before groups.

Salary: $60,000-$70,000

Please send resume and cover letter to jhernandez@proepartners.com