Economic Development Coordinator

The Opportunity

The City of Richmond, Texas, is conducting a recruitment for its next Economic Development Coordinator. As the county seat of Fort Bend County, the City of Richmond lies within the pathway of growth within the Greater Houston metropolitan area. Steeped in history, tradition, and stability, Richmond seeks an Economic Development Coordinator who can assist our Economic Development Department in building on our historic charm while balancing future growth and development.

About Richmond, Texas

Located 15 miles southwest of Houston along the banks of the Brazos River, Richmond is the county seat of Fort Bend County. With a population of 12,520 and occupying 4.44 square miles, Richmond lies between the City of Rosenberg and the City of Sugar Land. The City is well-connected to the surrounding region served by key infrastructure, including the recently expanded U.S. Highway 90, I-69, and SH 99. Richmond is poised to capture significant growth in the expanding Houston metropolitan area, that is anticipated to reach 2.25 million residents by the year 2050.

Named after Richmond, England, the town was first incorporated by the Republic of Texas in May 1837. Richmond's historic charm is fully on display in its downtown district. Over 200 years of history can be seen while strolling through the downtown streets. The unique shops, restaurants, and businesses have helped to create Richmond's own identity. The City has invested in modernizing the infrastructure needed for businesses to thrive and offers a strongly competitive business environment. The City offers an unparalleled quality of life for employees and residents alike.

Richmond was named #1 in the 10 Best Houston Suburbs to live in, ranking #1 in the Most Affordable Houston Suburbs and #1 in the Best Houston Suburbs for Young Couples by Movoto Real Estate, and is one of the top 50 safest cities in Texas. With the amenities of a major metropolitan area only minutes away, Richmond offers small-town living and an unbeatable quality of life.

With a civic personality that combines artistic culture with a bit of Texas chic, Richmond and its many historic landmarks are becoming a popular destination for people seeking a pleasant place to live, shop, work, play, and serve.

Richmond and the Central Fort Bend region have a diverse mix of businesses and industries, including healthcare, oil and gas, real estate, finance, insurance, professional services, and scientific and technical services. Richmond has created a supportive environment for businesses to thrive in today's economy.

City of Richmond Government

Richmond is a full-service municipality providing the following services: public safety (police and fire protection), public improvements, streets and highways, water and wastewater, sanitation, repair and maintenance of infrastructure, recreation, and general administrative services. Members are all elected at large for staggered three-year terms with no term limits.

The City has approximately 184.4 full-time employees who contribute to the City's success. The City's general fund budget is $21.7 million, with a total City budget including enterprise funds of $52.3 million.

The City of Richmond had operated under a Commission form of government from 1913 until 2013 when a charter election was held and the citizens elected to become a Home-Rule City. The Charter provided for a Commission-Manager form of government. The Commission is comprised of a Mayor and four Commission members. All of these elected positions are volunteer unpaid.

The Position

The Economic Development Coordinator is responsible for the direct support of the Economic Development Department by providing managerial and administrative support to the Economic Development Director. The position is responsible for monitoring and participating in Economic Development Strategic Projects, conducting and summarizing research and analysis on the Fort Bend/Richmond/Houston market, and assisting in budget development and maintenance.

This position will assist with maintaining accurate and timely data related to including but not limited to retail development, small/business, and entrepreneurial support, and lead special projects at the direction of the Economic Development Director. This position may interact and work directly with all City departments, the City Commission, the Development Corporation of Richmond Board, the business community, the general public, statewide organizations/associations, and various governmental agencies.

Qualifications:

Formal Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Accounting and Computer Information Systems, Urban Planning, or Public Administration.

Relatable Work Experience:

• One plus years of experience in ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, business retention, real estate brokerage, retail development or municipal government. Advanced education above a Bachelor's degree may be substituted for up to two years of experience.
• The candidate should have a proven track record of researching, coordinating, and assisting in the implementation of a wide range of ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT programs, projects, and initiatives (or projects similar in nature and execution).
• Experience or knowledge of Texas ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT incentive programs (Type B Corporations, Tax Abatements, Chapter 380s, Direct Incentives, Enterprise Zones, Skills Development, etc.) and an understanding of the restrictions associated with the usage of funds derived from these sources is preferred.
• Municipal experience is a plus.

Training (License and/or Certification):

• Valid Texas Driver's License
• Recognized Economic Development Industry training is a plus but not a requirement. Certifications may include:
  • Certified Economic Developer (CED)
  • Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP)
  • Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)

The City of Richmond is committed to equal employment opportunity as a way to recruit, hire, and retain the most qualified employees.