The Position
The City of Virginia Beach is seeking a highly ethical, visionary, charismatic, and results-oriented Director of Economic Development to champion a new, complex era of growth fueled by strategic redevelopment and aggressive business attraction. This is a unique, high-impact opportunity to inherit a highly functioning, well-funded department with strong operational Deputy Directors and staff while guiding the City through a pivotal expansion phase.

The next Director will serve as the City's chief economic strategist and global ambassador, translating the City Council's vision for growth into tangible job creation and capital investment.

The Director reports directly to a Deputy City Manager and works in a strong collaborative relationship with City leadership and external partners. The Director will lead a dedicated team of 20 professionals, including two strong and extremely capable Deputy Directors who manage the day-to-day operations and internal portfolios.

If you are a seasoned leader with a strong moral compass and the political acumen to foster consensus among diverse stakeholders, from the tourism industry and defense contractors to the City Council and the Virginia Beach Development Authority (VBDA), this challenge is for you.

Qualifications
Preferred qualifications include a master’s degree in business administration, public administration, marketing, economics, or a related program and six years of management/leadership experience; or a higher-level education and experience equivalent to twelve years in the field, including five years of higher-level program management or administrator experience.

The preferred candidate will have diverse experience and knowledge of economic development focused on capital investment, workforce development/job creation, incentives, entrepreneurial and business startups, business accelerators, public-private partnerships, business administration and economics.

Compensation and Benefits
The salary is commensurate with experience with a target range between $180,000 - $220,000. The City offers a generous benefits package, which includes health, dental, and life insurance, retirement and savings plans, holidays, and annual/sick leave. Executive benefits include five additional days of administrative leave per year and a $6,000/yr car allowance.

How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com/portal/Raftelis. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applicant submittals occurring by November 10, 2025.