Under general supervision of the Economic Development, Tourism and Marketing Director, assist community organizations, institutions and businesses in the research, preparation and implementation of economic development plans, programs, and services designed to attract new development opportunities and promote Cottonwood’s value as a business location and tourist destination. This role primarily focuses on developing and implementing economic development programs and strategies for economic growth, including business attraction, retention, and workforce development, while also supporting tourism and marketing efforts as needed. Provides administrative, technical, and customer service support to the Department Director and other staff.

CLASSIFICATION: This is a non-exempt, full-time, classified position with full benefits.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this classification.

TASKS: The duties listed below represent the primary responsibilities for this position. Employees may not be required to perform all duties and may be assigned additional duties as needed.

• Research, identify, develop, and monitor programs that enhance customer relations, ensure data accuracy, and provide access to trending business and entrepreneurial resources to foster economic growth within the region and community.
• Actively engage with the private sector and development community to raise awareness and promote site selection for quality residential, industrial, hospitality, retail, and other commercial development projects in Cottonwood.
• Adhere to the vision and mission of the City of Cottonwood and the department, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Assist with developing and maintaining a comprehensive inventory of local built environments, commercial properties, local business needs, and regional and national trends impacting economic development; recommend and adjust solutions, programs, and resources accordingly.
• Collaborate with the Greater Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce, other organizations, and city staff on various cross-over events, projects, tasks, and initiatives.
• Assist with monitoring existing businesses, new developments, stakeholder interests, and city priorities.
• Facilitate problem-solving and resolution of economic development-related issues; perform business process analysis; and recommend changes to improve processes.
• Meet with clients/customers, residents, neighborhood associations, interest groups, non-profit organizations, elected officials, and business representatives on policy and program issues.
• Assist with filling out Request for Information (RFI) reports for project leads from various organizations while maintaining Assist with location opportunities with Project Information Forms (PIF) from the Arizona Commerce Authority and other site selector organizations.
• Support economic development marketing efforts, including social media management and the design of website and marketing materials.
• Experience in tourism and marketing is preferred.
• Assist the Economic Development Department with implementing and maintaining Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software.
• Support the city’s policies, goals, and objectives; work with management and other staff to ethically achieve these goals and ensure compliance with safety procedures.
• Participate in and organize events, trade shows, and conferences to highlight Cottonwood’s economic and tourism assets.
• Compile and analyze data, preparing reports on economic development and tourism activities.
• Communicate clearly and professionally, present information orally and in writing within the department, to other City departments and to other internal and external stakeholders.
• Actively work toward and support the City’s vision and mission.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS:

• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, statutes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of computer hardware and software capabilities.
• Knowledge of research methods and techniques.
• Knowledge of economic development principles and practices.
• Knowledge of Cottonwood’s local business environment and economic development strategies.
• Knowledge of basic tourism marketing strategies (to support tourism initiatives as needed).
• Skill in utilizing proper English, grammar, and spelling.
• Skill in digital marketing, social media management, and website development.
• Skill in developing and maintaining effective interpersonal relations.
• Skill in effective verbal communications.
• Skill in creating concise and professional written communications.
• Skill in public speaking and delivering effective presentations.
• Skill in coordinating and multi-tasking.
• Skill in utilizing computer applications and digital marketing tools.
• Skill in conducting research and analysis for economic development purposes.
• Skill in managing multiple projects and adhering to deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Ability to organize and present data clearly and effectively.
• Ability to create innovative marketing campaigns and promotional materials.
• Ability to provide excellent customer services.
• Ability to create and maintain manual and automated files.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: This classification is in an office environment requiring mostly sedentary activities for the majority of the workday, however, some projects may require outdoor activities on uneven terrain. Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, and lift up to 10 pounds. Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and lift and move up to 50 pounds. Must have hearing and speaking ability sufficient to clearly and concisely communicate in person and over the telephone. Must have sufficient close, distance, color, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus to perform the duties of the position. Must be capable of operating motor vehicles safely for required travel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: The equivalent of a Bachelor’s Degree in urban planning, economic development, marketing, public or business administration, finance, or related field and three years’ experience in economic development, business attraction, community planning, marketing, or a related field, or any combination of education and five-years’ experience as an economic development specialist. Additional experience in customer service, community engagement, tourism marketing, and developing and implementing economic strategies is desirable. Must possess or be able to possess upon hire a valid State of Arizona Driver’s License.