Overview
Rooks County is taking applications for the Economic Development Director position. Interested parties must submit a full resume’, along with the county application. Submit applications and resume’ to: Rooks County Economic Development, 115 N. Walnut, Stockton, KS 67669. Below is the job description:
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Economic Development Director (EDD), under the supervision of the Rooks County Economic Development Board (EDB), will be accountable to the Board of Rooks County Commissioners and governing councils or boards of participating municipalities. The EDD will be directly responsible to the EDB on all functions, expenses, budgets and by-laws adopted by the EDB. The EDD shall have the primary responsibility of implementing a diversified economic development program in Rooks County that will stimulate growth and employment.
SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES:
1.Actively seek and promote new industry within Rooks County and maintain a constant prospect list. In conjunction with this effort, the EDD will act as lead contact and negotiator for new business candidates.
2. Research all available state programs, federal funding, loans, grants, etc., as may be available in attracting new industry and supporting existing businesses and municipalities. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of the EDD to make said data available to above entities.
3. Become familiar with existing business and local municipalities’ needs to assure the retention of said entities and support municipalities on economic issues.
4. Develop a promotional campaign to create a positive county image.
5. Maintain files of assets and resources available throughout Rooks County, which may be attractive for future expansion. In addition, develop tentative economic plans for the county and city municipalities, as to additional resources that may be available for business ventures, (i.e., tax abatements, buildings available for leases, etc.)
6. Maintain tentative plans for possible housing needs and construction to support and attract new industry, and coordinating this effort with municipalities and/or private investors.
7. Remain alert to any new programs or legislation which may be either beneficial or detrimental to the welfare of Rooks County.
8. Work closely with the Northwest Kansas Planning and Development Commission, Pioneer Country Development. Inc., the Kansas Department of Commerce, the Northwest Kansas Innovation Center, local lending financial institutions, and all entities that may aid Rooks County with information, funding, grant knowledge, etc.
9. Develop and submit the annual budget to EDB as stated in the Rooks County Economic Development By-laws Section 4.2.
NOTE: Requirements for initial position:
EXPERIENCE: Minimum of three years’ experience in Economic Development and/or grant work is preferred. The EDD is expected to have acquired the necessary information through knowledge of the County, its communities, and their amenities to perform the job reasonably well after six months in the position.
EDUCATION: Degree in business, public administration or related subject area preferred.
SKILLS: Knowledge of general Economic Development laws regarding enterprise zones, tax abatements, and Community Development Block Grant exemptions; excellent oral and written communications; public relations skills as well as interpersonal skills; knowledge of computers and data processing.
PROBLEM-SOLVING & DECISION MAKING: Possess strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to address unique challenges such as limited resources, workforce gaps, and infrastructure needs. Ability to analyze economic trends, identify root causes of barriers to growth, and develop strategic, data-driven solutions that align with local assets. Ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders, balancing competing interests, and adapting quickly to changing conditions while managing risk.
ACCOUNTABILITY: Responsible for budgetary control of the office and participates in the annual budgeting process.
SUPERVISION: Works with a low amount of supervision. The Economic Development Board periodically reviews job-related decisions.
PERSONAL RELATIONS: Continuous contact with businesses, government agencies, and the general public.
RESIDENCE: The Economic Development Director must live within Rooks County.
