Project Manager - Economic Development

• Manage economic development projects from start to finish, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and community priorities.
• Develop and track project timelines, budgets, and performance metrics.
• Coordinate across departments and external partners to ensure seamless execution

Business Retention & Expansion (BRE)

• Serve as a key contact for existing employers and companies considering expansion or relocation.
• Plan and implement regular BRE visits and maintain CRM data.
• Work closely with Forward Forsyth partners to remove barriers and provide solutions that support business growth.

Community Engagement & Collaboration

• Build relationships with elected officials, community leaders, chambers of commerce, nonprofits, and educational institutions.
• Facilitate stakeholder consultations, public meetings, and presentations on economic initiatives.
• Represent Forward Forsyth at business, community, and industry events.

Research & Analysis

• Conduct market research, feasibility studies, and competitive analyses.
  Prepare economic impact studies and project proposals for leadership, board members, and external stakeholders.
• Maintain awareness of regional, state, and national economic trends.

Marketing & Promotion

• Assist in preparing proposals, marketing packages, and presentations for site selectors, prospects, and developers.
• Support targeted marketing campaigns, trade show participation, and consultant outreach.
• Host and coordinate site selection visits and familiarization (FAM) tours.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, contracts, and grant requirements.
• Track KPIs such as capital investment, jobs created/retained, square footage developed, and BRE activity.
• Prepare reports for Forward Forsyth’s board, public partners, and funding stakeholders.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Urban Planning, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

Experience

• 3–5 years of professional experience in project management, economic development, or related fields.
• Experience working with local governments, developers, utility providers, or economic development organizations preferred.

Skills

• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, including public speaking.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with CRM systems, GIS, or data visualization tools a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Key Competencies

• Strategic and analytical thinking
• Relationship-building and stakeholder management
• Results-driven with strong attention to detail
• Adaptability and problem-solving
• Professionalism and community-minded approach

Work Environment & Compensation

• Office setting with frequent local travel and occasional regional/national travel for meetings, site visits, and conferences.
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and professional development support.