Economic Development Officer

**Town of Blackfalds**:
**Economic Development Officer**:

- Blackfalds is one of Canada’s youngest and fastest growing communities; with a population of 11,015 and a growth rate of 2.9% in 2021._
- Ideally situated in Central Alberta, midway between Alberta’s two largest urban Centre’s, Blackfalds retains the feel and security of a small-town while being only a short drive from urban amenities of post-secondary education, regional scale shopping outlets and entertainment._
- Outstanding recreational opportunities, a robust and diversified economy and affordable land and housing are among the factors contributing to our thriving, successful, and dynamic community._

The **Economic Development Officer (EDO)** plays a pivotal role in promoting economic growth and sustainability within the community. Reporting directly to the Director of Corporate Services, the EDO focuses on fostering a thriving business environment while working to attract new businesses to the community.

The EDO provides leadership and active participation on the Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee (EDTAC) and the Blackfalds Health Practitioners Retention and Attraction Committee (BHPARC) by providing accurate development and economic growth-related information to the public and stakeholders. Coordination of assigned activities with other Municipal departments and outside agencies, maintaining regular contact with the community / public in situations that require tact and judgment and representing the Municipality in negotiations. The EDO provides guidance to Council, Committees, Senior Leadership, and Public.

**Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities**:

- Entrepreneurial focused.
- Interpersonal and public relations skills focusing on community networking, business collaboration, and fostering partnerships.
- Exceptional communication skills in both written and verbal.
- Innovative with strong decision-making skills.
- Accountable & dependable.
- Proven leadership skills & negotiation skills.

**Position Requirements**:
**Economic Development - Strategy & Planning**
Participate in business planning, strategic planning, research initiatives, and performance management for specific initiatives in support of economic development, often through the activity of EDTAC.
- Develop strategic plans and implement the economic development initiatives and programs as identified in the current Council Strategic Plan and the Economic Development & Tourism Strategic Plan.
- Participate in the development of economic development strategies, objectives and long-range plans for a unified economic development attraction program.
- Assist in the development of strategic plans by researching, facilitating, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating major policy and program initiatives that align with long-term economic development strategies.
- Monitors and examines market conditions and emerging trends that may impact existing and potential economic development and recommends appropriate action.
- Evaluate and report on the impact of government legislative policy and program changes. Revises strategies, programs, and initiatives accordingly.

**Economic Development & Tourism**
Leads a range of programs, services, initiatives, and activities including (_but not limited to) _business outreach, local economic development, business improvement area management project facilitation, community economic development workforce development and special projects either through own initiative or with the EDTAC.
- Oversee and coordinate the Town’s economic development effort.
- Acts as key liaison and facilitator for the Blackfalds Economic Development and Tourism Committee, providing direction and leadership.
- Source and champion special events in collaboration with the community and Town departments.
- Participate and represent the Town of Blackfalds in regional economic planning activities where required, including working with Central Alberta Economic Partnership.
- Provide customer service and serve as a resource to citizens, entrepreneurs, brokers, landowners, prospects, retailers, developers, and organizations acting as an advocate for business.
- Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in economic development and commercial real estate.
- Assist in the negotiation of agreements and contracts with the recruitment process of prospective businesses within the Municipality.
- Work collaboratively with the Planning & Development Manager, Marketing & Communications Team and other Municipal staff members in economic development initiatives.
- Prepare periodic analytical and statistical reports indicating related activities and progress towards goals and objectives for Council, and CAO. Advise on issues related to the improvement and enhancement of the commercial tax base.
- Participate in the preparation and administration of the economic development program budget and develop budgetary