ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATOR / PROJECT MANAGER

The City of Lilburn is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Economic Development Administrator / Project Manager.

The Economic Development Administrator / Project Manager is an execution-focused professional responsible for planning, coordinating, and implementing the City's economic development strategy and for advancing economic development and real estate initiatives from concept through completion.

This position provides professional-level leadership and subject-matter expertise in economic development strategy, business recruitment and retention, redevelopment coordination, real estate development support, and marketing initiatives that enhance the City's quality of life and business environment.

The position reports to the Assistant City Manager, works closely with the City Manager and Planning Director, and serves as the central point of coordination between the City and the downtown development authority. The position also works collaboratively with City departments, elected officials, developers, and the business community.

Success in this position requires direct experience managing commercial real estate development, redevelopment, mixed-use development, public/private partnerships, and economic development projects, with a demonstrated record of delivering projects from concept through entitlement, financing, construction, and completion, and the ability to independently advance complex initiatives while maintaining strong relationships with diverse stakeholders. This is a hands-on, implementation-focused position rather than an analyst or management role that relies on staff for implementation.

MAJOR DUTIES:

The Economic Development Administrator/ Project Manager performs professional, administrative, and strategic work related to economic development initiatives. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Develops, implements, and evaluates economic growth and development strategies aligned with the City's comprehensive plan, strategic goals, and adopted policies.
• Leads business recruitment, retention, and expansion efforts, including outreach to existing businesses, site selectors, developers, and prospective employers.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for economic development inquiries, providing guidance related to development processes, incentives, permitting coordination, and available City resources.
• Coordinates redevelopment initiatives, commercial revitalization efforts, and real estate development projects in collaboration with internal departments and external stakeholders.
• Conducts economic and market research, data analysis, and feasibility assessments to support informed decision-making and policy development.
• Assists in the development and administration of economic development programs, incentives, and partnerships, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, policies, and funding requirements.
• Supports marketing and promotional efforts to position the City as a competitive and attractive location for business investment, tourism, and economic activity.
• Prepares reports, presentations, and recommendations for the Assistant City Manager, City Manager, Mayor and Council, boards, and commissions.
• Represents the City at meetings, conferences, and regional or state economic development organizations as assigned.
• Collaborates with planning, zoning, building, and other City departments to facilitate coordinated development review and project implementation.
• Maintains confidentiality of sensitive and privileged information.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Salary Range: $77,000 - $90,000, depending on qualifications

PLUS: Excellent Benefits Package

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work is primarily performed in an office environment while sitting, standing, or walking. The position may require occasional travel to meetings, development sites, or events. Minimal lifting of light objects may be required. The work does not typically involve exposure to hazardous conditions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Planning, Economics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field; and
• At least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, community development, real estate development, public administration, or a related field; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Possession of a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in Urban Planning, Economics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional economic development experience within a municipal or regional government setting.
• Professional economic development experience with Georgia Power or State Economic Development/Community Affairs agencies.
• Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) or similar professional certification.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of municipal economic development and redevelopment.
• Business recruitment, retention, and expansion strategies.
• Real estate development processes and public-private partnerships.
• Local government operations, policies, and applicable federal and state regulations.
• Economic and demographic research methods and data analysis.
• Budgeting, grants, and incentive program administration.
• State and Federal grants and financial resources associated with local revitalization.

Skill in:

• Strategic planning and economic development program implementation and growth.
• Research, analysis, and problem-solving.
• Building effective relationships with businesses, developers, and community partners.
• Oral and written communication, including public presentations and report preparation.
• Managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Ability to:

• Interpret and apply policies, plans, and regulations.
• Communicate complex economic and development concepts clearly.
• Work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism.

The expected starting salary for this position will be determined based on the qualifications of the selected candidate. The City offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision coverage. Life insurance and long-term disability benefits are paid by the City. The City participates in the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) Employee Retirement Defined Benefit Retirement program and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan.

Interested candidates may submit an application online at www.cityoflilburn.com Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references with the application.

Completed paper applications can be sent to:

Department of Human Resources

340 Main Street

Lilburn, GA 30047

For questions please call (770) 638-2233 or (770) 638-2203 email hr@cityoflilburn.com

The City of Lilburn is an Equal Opportunity Employer