Interim Executive Director, Market One

This is an interim position that is expected to last approximately six months, with the possibility of extension depending on business needs.

OUR ORGANIZATION:

Kinexus Group, recognized as one of Nonprofit Times 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 Best Nonprofits to Work For, is a cutting-edge community development organization with growing initiatives to create an economically thriving Michigan. We are change agents who create solutions for business, workforce, and community challenges to promote economic vitality.  

THE TEAM:

Our team is comprised of competent and caring business professionals who are innovative, resourceful, collaborative, and helpful in facilitating the financial management and accountability of the Kinexus Group.  This responsibility requires that we be service oriented relative to the financial needs of all departments while still assuring that all transactions adhere to Kinexus policies and procedures, generally accepted accounting principles, and rules established through various federal. state and local fund sources.  

We lead by example by holding true to a high standard of excellence that drives Finance to provide outstanding levels of support, service, and products.  The Department strives to be exemplary in all activities and to continuously exceed expectations.  

WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU:

The Executive Director of Market One must understand the recent trends in the ever-evolving economy and government’s role in place-making, quality of life, and talent attraction. They will network with the local business community and work directly with large and small business owners on an everyday basis. They will be a dynamic and creative leader who is an advocate for Economic Growth and Development in Van Buren & Cass Counties. The Executive Director should be an energetic and self-motivated individual who will proactively work to ensure the county is leveraging its resources to sustain its position as a great place to live and do business. 

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

The Executive Director will act as the direct lead of operational objectives related to economic development county-wide. They’ll build and manage relationships with county, state and local units of government. They will partner with the County, municipalities, Downtown Development Authorities, Local Develop Finance Authorities, Chambers of Commerce, and building and business owners. The Executive Director will assist site selectors, businesses or developers with site or building searches.   

Key responsibilities include:

• Act as a facilitator with Municipalities, County and State permitting departments to expedite local approvals.  


• Work with the Municipal leaders to negotiate tax incentives or other financial assistance available through the County, Municipalities and State.  


• Assist in locating or applying for economic development loans or grants from the County, State or other lenders.  


• Grow, maintain, and manage organizations’ budget; which includes attracting funding from grants, investors or other sources of revenue.   


• Provide periodic reports to organization investors demonstrating effectiveness. 


• Living our values (Bold, Inspirational, Entrepreneurial). 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or related experience in urban planning, public administration, economics, business, or a related field. 


• Minimum five years’ relevant experience in public affairs or a related field


• The capacity to lead and make strategic and tactical management decisions. 


• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships 


• Ability to exercise a high degree of diplomacy in contentious or confrontational situations. 


• Ability to critically assess situations, problem-solve, and work effectively under stress, within deadlines and changes in work priorities. 


• Knowledge of state and federal laws pertaining to economic development.


• Strong proficiency in the Microsoft suite of products.


• Ability to foster effective public relations and community promotion techniques. 


• Ability to effectively communicate ideas and concepts written and orally. 

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:   

• A strong passion to make a difference and improve economic conditions. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:   

• Flexible & open  


• Completive salary and benefits 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US: 

• Team of Teams training in support of the organizational strategies.


• Job training and development to ensure you are established and growing in your role.


• Cross Operational Meetings with your peers.


• Exceptional benefits. 


• Be a part of transformational change in Michigan.

We have a unique culture that requires us to be BOLD, INSPIRATIONAL, ENTREPRENEURIAL and INCLUSIVE.   We spend more waking hours with each other than we do with family or friends, so finding someone that adds to our culture is extremely important.   It is our goal to inspire positive economic change one person, one business and one community at a time. 

Kinexus Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program. Auxiliary aids, reasonable accommodations and or services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. Michigan Relay Center: 711 Voice and TDD. Kinexus is a partner of American Job Centers.