Position: Economic Development Manager
Location: Chicago, IL (Neighborhood: Edgewater)
Type: Full-Time, Exempt
About the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce is to create and support a thriving business environment, contributing to a vibrant Edgewater community. We organize and present marketing, education, networking, and advocacy programs to increase commercial activity and strengthen existing businesses and Chamber members in the Edgewater community. Founded in 1984, the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization and the Edgewater Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting organization, serving the Edgewater business community.
Summary of Position
The Economic Development Manager is responsible for building strong relationships with businesses, property owners, external partners, agencies, community organizations, government officials, and other interested parties to attract and retain businesses in Edgewater. The position will manage programs that beautify the streetscape, promote the area, and improve the overall vibrancy of the commercial districts in the community. Overseeing the delivery of the Special Service Area (SSA) business plan, the position will execute contracts and agreements with vendors for services provided within the SSA. Ensuring compliance with the policies and procedures of the SSA and City of Chicago's Department of Planning and Development, they will prepare necessary documents, policies, and programs for SSA Commission approval.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Managing business attraction and retention strategies, including:
Promoting the Edgewater community throughout Chicago
Identifying and engaging with prospective businesses and helping them to secure space in Edgewater through connections with brokers, landlords, and developers
Maintaining a current database of existing businesses and available spaces in Edgewater
Working with landlords in renting storefronts; providing information and encouragement to prospective business owners and investors
Marketing Edgewater’s commercial corridors to fill vacant storefronts
Visiting newly opened businesses and maintaining strong relationships with business owners to ensure business retention in Edgewater
Participating in events that promote Edgewater as a business-friendly area
Staffing and managing Edgewater’s Economic Development and Planning Committee and their work plan
Designing and implementing programs that bring awareness to the Edgewater community as a tool for economic development and business attraction
Managing the Edgewater Development Corporation Neighborhood Business Development Center (NBDC) grant program and work plan
Completing monthly deliverables and other duties and responsibilities as needed and/or assigned
Overseeing neighborhood planning along the commercial corridors in Edgewater including coordinating with consultants to spearhead plans
Overseeing management of SSA #26:
Leading SSA Commission meetings
Managing relationships with SSA commissioners, ensuring that the SSA is in program compliance with the City of Chicago and that SSA commissions operate in sync with Edgewater’s mission and goals
Recruiting new SSA commissioners as needed
Managing and implementing projects & services approved by the SSA commissioners
Developing an annual budget and workplan with commissioners for submission to the City; reviewing financials and audits; assisting Commissioners in drafting and adhering to bylaws; acting as a liaison among the SSA Commissions, City agencies, the Chamber and taxpaying constituents
Managing programs and services for the SSA, such as: landscaping, holiday decorations, snow removal, trash removal, litter removal, tree maintenance, installation of wayfinding signage, installation of public art, installation of bike racks, and more as needed
Managing special projects, such as demographic and marketing studies, as needed
Help manage the Elevate Devon Corridor Plan project, in partnership with the Rogers Park Business Alliance and Loyola University
Representing Edgewater at small business expos, and other events as needed
Making recommendations for improvements to organizational systems and implementing changes and modifications to current systems, as needed
Building relationships in a mission-based environment that lead to support for the organization and its programs
Completing monthly reports and any other required deliverables for the SSA program
Qualities
Highly collaborative with a relationship-building style of communications and strong customer service skills
A demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven, team-oriented environment
A motivated self-starter who takes initiative and employs highly developed problem-solving skills
Solid verbal and written communication skills; ability to make presentations and communicate information professionally and clearly
Must respect and embrace diversity in all its forms when interacting with peers, supervisors, community partners, business owners, and residents
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree, emphasis in business or urban planning a plus
Experience with analysis, strategic planning, project management, and small business development and/or community development
Experience with budgetary management and compliance with proper financial controls and procedures
Public speaking and strong writing skill required
Availability for occasional evening and weekend events
Familiarity with the Edgewater area/far north side of Chicago a plus
Compensation and Benefits
The Economic Development Manager is a full-time salaried position. Benefits include paid vacation and holidays, matching retirement contributions, health insurance and a flexible work environment.
To Apply:
Email a cover letter and resume to Christina@edgewater.org by Friday, March 25, 2022. No calls, please. The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce is interested in receiving applications from a broad spectrum of individuals and is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment.