Director, Economic Development

Job DescriptionThe Corporate Services and Strategy service area is responsible for providing strategic leadership, coordination, and organizational support that guides the County’s long-term direction. It’s role is to ensure that the County operates cohesively, communicates effectively, and advances economic and legislative priorities that benefit its residents and businesses.The purpose of the Director, Economic Development is to develop, implement, manage, promote, monitor and report on the Economic Development of the County by leading the Economic Development Program and Department. The Economic Development department’s role is to attract, expand and retain economic development and interest which will foster growth, and contribute to a better quality of life for residents of the County of Grande Prairie.Job Duties and Responsibilities: •  Lead and support a team of economic development professionals while providing mentorship and guidance. •  Maintain, implement and keep updated the County’s Growth and Economic Development Strategy. •  Pursue projects and opportunities that will provide long-term economic sustainability for the County of Grande Prairie. •  Prepare strategic plans and initiate economic development initiatives. Identify and promote new business or industrial opportunities as well as work with existing ones to encourage improvements and expansions. •  Research, write and present related portfolio reports, memos and discussion papers to the General Manager, Corporate Services and Strategy and/or Council for feedback and direction. •  Maintain active contact with relevant provincial and federal economic development agencies and with local business organizations. •  Act as a facilitator and coordinator of interactions between the County and industry.  •  Participate in regional economic planning activities including the Regional Economic Development Strategy, InvestNW, and WorkNW. •  Prepare and monitor an extensive promotional plan as well as prepare press releases in coordination with the Director, Communications and Marketing when acting as a spokesperson to the media for areas of economic development activities. •  Establish and maintain contacts with the local, provincial and national tourism agencies. •  Provides public relations through a variety of activities such as trade shows and other public functions. •  Attend meetings of various government, community, and business groups. Must also coordinate and/or participate on a variety of economic development committees. •  Lead the development and management of the department’s budget, ensuring County funds are used effectively and responsibly.QualificationsEducation and Experience: •  Post-secondary degree in one of the following disciplines: Business, Tourism, Marketing, Economics or Economic Development. •  A minimum of five years’ related experience, including proven leadership, preferably in a municipal or public sector environment. •  Canadian (Ec. D) or International (CEcD) designation an asset Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: •  Knowledge of formal and informal political processes as well as knowledge in existing government sponsored economic development initiatives and programs. •  Proficiency with computers and relevant software applications. •  Self-starter who has the ability to work independently in a time efficient manner. •  Ability to read and write in English and communicate effectively orally and in writing. •  Ability to build and motivate a team. •  Ability to conduct economic, demographic, and market research as well as be able to track the relevant information and organize it into usable data.Additional InformationWhat We Offer: The County of Grande Prairie provides a competitive compensation package, including benefits, LAPP pension and vacation. We actively support professional development opportunities and foster an engaging work environment. Hours of work: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (35 hours per week). Occasional overtime or working during weekends may be required based on operational needs.Work Environment: This is an in-office position, based in Grande Prairie. Some travel in and outside of the region can be expected.Closing date: This posting will be open until February 13, 2026.Pay rate: $151,164 to $177,840 per year.As part of the County of Grande Prairie’s commitment to provide a safe and healthy workplace, we encourage and support a scent-free environment.We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Only applications submitted online will be accepted. We do not accept applications sent via email.The County of Grande Prairie recognizes and values the principles of fair hiring practices. We are committed to a respectful and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. Should you require accommodation through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact hr@countygp.ab.ca and we will work with you to meet your needs.This posting may be used for future vacancies or to fill more than one positionThis posting may be open until a suitable candidate(s) is/are found.Please note that once your application is complete, you will receive a confirmation email. If we require any additional information we will contact you. Due to the volume of applications received we can only answer questions at the interview stage.