Director of Economic Development
City of Austin, TX
AN OUTSTANDING CAREER OPPORTUNITY
Austin’s rapid growth and national reputation as a hub for innovation, culture, and opportunity create a unique environment for the next Director of Economic Development to make a lasting impact. This is a rare chance to lead a high-performing team in one of the country’s most dynamic cities—driving inclusive growth, shaping redevelopment, and building pathways to prosperity for all Austinites.
ABOUT AUSTIN
People in Austin enjoy the wide variety of what the city offers, including restaurants, museums, and nature trails, attending world class arts, culture and sporting events at The University of Texas of Austin, browsing uniquely local retailers and vintage shops, and cheering on Austin FC at Q2 Stadium. Austin is thriving and is fueled by an influx of people and businesses, making Greater Austin one of the country's fastest-growing regions. Austin is currently the 11th largest city in the U.S. and is projected to be the 3rd largest metro in the U.S. by 2100.
Located at the edge of the Texas Hill Country -- rolling terrain of limestone bluffs, springs, rivers, and lakes -- Austin’s climate is ideal for year-round jogging, cycling, hiking on the city’s many trails, or swimming at Barton Springs Pool or one of the area’s many other swimming holes. There are several excellent golf courses in the area, as well as opportunities for rowing, kayaking, canoeing, camping, rock climbing, disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, and more. Austin has something for everyone.
To learn more about the dynamic City of Austin, visit austintexas.gov.
THE DEPARTMENT
The Economic Development Department’s purpose is twofold: reducing financial pressure on residents by increasing the commercial tax base of the City and reducing poverty and its associated social costs by investing in the City's rapid growth and creating new pathways to good jobs and well-paying careers for all residents.
Achieving this work is a staff of 58 full-time equivalent positions and an annual operating budget of approximately $32.4 million. Supporting the Director is a Deputy Director, a Department Executive Assistant and an Equity & Inclusion Coordinator.
THE POSITION
Reporting to an Assistant City Manager, the Director of Economic Development leads a dynamic department charged with advancing Austin’s inclusive growth. The Director oversees a wide range of programs and services including small business support, downtown services, redevelopment, and international initiatives. Key responsibilities include department leadership and strategy, citywide representation, financial stewardship, community engagement and issue resolution, cross-departmental collaboration, market analysis and strategy development, business promotion and investment, support for entrepreneurs, and special initiatives and redevelopment.
The ideal candidate will bring a blend of strategic insight, collaborative leadership, and practical experience in guiding inclusive economic growth. Key attributes will include exceptional communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences; a proven ability to manage expectations with transparency, responsiveness, and political savviness; experience leading teams through organizational change; expertise in traditional economic development tools, as well as a strong track record in structuring and executing Public-Private Partnerships (P3s); and a demonstrated success in community revitalization, particularly in historically underinvested areas, with a deep commitment to equity in economic development.
QUALIFICATIONS
The following are the minimum requirements for the position:
Education: Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public or business administration, economic development, or in a field related to the job.
Experience: Seven (7) years of experience in oversight or managing projects and programs in economic development, economics, business assistance, public and/or private finance, or workforce development. Graduation with a Master's degree may substitute for two years of experience.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for the Director of Economic Development is $219,000 to $229,000, with placement in the range depending on qualifications. The benefits package includes medical, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, compensated leave, short-term disability, and retirement benefits. The City is a member of the Proportionate Retirement Program. Optional benefits include supplemental life insurance, a 457 deferred compensation plan, long-term disability plan, and a legal plan.
Visit Austin Employee Benefits to learn more about the City’s employee benefits.
APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS
This position is considered open until filled, with a first review of candidates on Monday, June 16, 2025. To be considered for this position, candidates must submit a cover letter and résumé at:
Information submitted for consideration may be made available to the public in compliance with the Texas Open Records Act. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact one of the recruiters below before submitting materials.
Confidential inquiries are welcomed to:
Greg Nelson | greg@mosaicpublic.com | (916) 550-4100
Bryan Noblett |bryan@mosaicpublic.com | (916) 550-4100
