The City of Austin is seeking a highly qualified individual to fill the Assistant Director of Economic Development (Workforce Development & Business) position. This role reports to the Deputy Director of Economic Development.
The next Assistant Director of Economic Development (Workforce Development & Business) will have several exciting challenges to address and areas of opportunity to excel. Among these is the need to develop strategies using equity-focused programs for workforce development solutions, and strategic and global business development. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving the department’s programs for workforce, and business development divisions.

Minimum Requirements
Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economic Development, Urban Planning, or in a related field to the job, plus five (5) years of experience in management of projects and programs related to the job, including two (2) years of experience which were in a managerial capacity.
Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university may substitute for non-management experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.

The ideal candidate should possess a record of accomplishments in economic and community development with knowledge of workforce development strategies, public policy development and analysis. Experience in fiscal planning, budget preparation, contract management, and interlocal agreements with the City of Austin, surrounding cities, and Travis County is required to be successful in this position. The ideal candidate should be skilled in building and maintaining a broad and diverse spectrum of partnerships with City employees, the public, elected officials, and boards and commissions, and have experience presenting/ communicating complex information and technical issues in non- technical terms to the public. Advanced written and oral communication skills are imperative. The ideal candidate needs to be a strategic leader with effective communication, strong collaboration, and negotiating skills to be successful.

The following core competencies are important for this role:

Exceptional Leadership – A leader who uses judgement to handle community concerns and has sharp problem-solving skills with the ability to build quality interpersonal relationships throughout the city with diverse communities.
Communicates Effectively with an Equity Mindset – Ability to manage diversity, understand inclusion, and work with diverse communities and populations to build constructive and effective relationships, and convey and receive information.
Administration Skills – Proven ability to lead and manage a diverse team within a dynamic environment while remaining compliant and transparent.
Change Management – Ability to prepare, support, and assist individuals and teams with organizational changes and adaptations and improve staff morale.
Customer Focused – Strives to deliver high-quality results and superior service that exceeds expectations while remaining mindful of the needs and perspectives of both our internal and external stakeholders.
Community Collaborator – Has experience in presenting complex strategies to internal and external stakeholders on projects and programs that may include public outreach, City Council updates, and program implementation.
Political Savvy – Ability to exhibit confidence and professional diplomacy while effectively relating to people at all levels internally and externally.