The Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance (The Alliance), an economic development organization, seeks a well-experienced and dynamic Executive Director to lead the organization in Dickinson County, Michigan. After six years in the position, the current Executive Director is retiring.
The Executive Director is the administrative officer of the organization and is responsible to the Board of Directors for a full range of activities – organizational structure and procedures; communications; budget and finance; program activities; creation and implementation of the organization’s strategic economic and community development plans.
BACKGROUND
The Alliance is a 501c6 nonprofit, economic development organization, dedicated to the positive growth and development of the Dickinson County, Michigan area. In 2016-2017, the area’s business and community leaders came together to restructure a new approach to economic development and embarked on a community survey for input to develop a strategic focus on economic development issues of importance. Since that time, the organization has grown its activity, influence, and success by implementing task force groups devoted to addressing key priority topics.
- Talent and Education
- Infrastructure and Housing development
- Business Retention and Growth
- Government Relations and Advocacy
- Marketing and Branding
Coalition building through broad, cross-sector participation in the task force groups helps the Alliance effectively meet business and community needs.
While the Executive Director is the only staff person located full-time in Dickinson County, the Alliance contracts for additional support and expertise from the Lake Superior Community Partnership in Marquette, MI, a successful economic development organization for more than 25 years. The LSCP provides administration, accounting, marketing, software tools, economic development resources, and staffing to help the Alliance implement its economic development plans. This partnership has been a successful model for six years now.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE IDEAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
- An understanding of the Northern Michigan economic, cultural, and political environment.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in a field of study relevant to the position.
- Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) training and certification preferred.
- Minimum 3-years work experience in business, economic and/or community development with proven success in cultivating vital relationships nationwide to support economic development strategies.
- Ability to lead the organization’s efforts to position the Dickinson County area as a top destination for investment and job creation.
- Understanding of basic marketing strategies and brand strategy.
- Financial management acumen (prepare and manage an annual budget, risk management, accountability).
- Stay current on local/state/federal financing tools, programs, practices, services, and resources.
- Excellent listening, communication, presentation, problem-solving, and time management skills.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to travel/maintain a schedule requiring occasional evening/weekend work is required.
- Willingness and ability to relocate to Dickinson County, Office is located in Iron Mountain, MI.
COMPENSATION/BENEFITS
The annual salary will be based on the knowledge, experience, education, and connectivity you bring and will be competitive with standards for the profession. Targeted salary range is $60,000 – $85,000, depending upon experience and qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package will be offered that includes health insurance, Simple IRA contribution, paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time), fuel allowance, and cell phone reimbursement. For candidates outside of the Dickinson County area, relocation assistance can be considered as part of an offer.
