City of South Portland - Economic Development Director

Start Date: March 10, 2025 | End Date: April 03, 2025
County: Cumberland County
Job Type: Other, Planning

The City of South Portland is currently seeking a 37.5 hour a week (four-day workweek) full-time Economic Development Director to head our Economic Development Department. This is an opportunity to join a well-run city and play a part in serving our growing and dynamic community with further opportunities for professional growth.

Position Summary: The Economic Development Director serves as the City’s primary liaison with the business community. This position is responsible for enhancing economic activity in the City of South Portland by managing business retention, expansion, attraction, and workforce development activities; providing excellent customer service to clients who have interest in investing in the community, starting and/or growing a business, and creating quality jobs; collaborating with officials from neighboring municipalities and local, state, and federal agencies on regional economic initiatives and grant opportunities. The position is accountable for the City’s Economic Development efforts and managing the day to day operation of the Economic Development Department. The Economic Development Director also provides advice on economic development matters to the City Council, Economic Development Committee, City Manager, and City Departments, and works closely with other City Departments and Staff on matters pertaining to economic development plans, programs and related activities.

Education:  Master’s degree in Business Administration, Public Policy, Planning, or the equivalent is preferred. Bachelor’s degree required.

Experience: Five (5) years of comparable work experience, which may include a combination of economic and community development, public policy and administration, business marketing and management, entrepreneurship, real estate, finance, and land use and transportation planning.

Benefits: The City of South Portland offers competitive pay and a robust selection of employee benefits, including an excellent health plan with affordable family coverage, matched retirement options, dental, vision, life, income protection, long term disability, flexible spending accounts and more.  The City also offers health insurance “payment-in-lieu” and professional development opportunities.  We offer thirteen (13) paid holidays, fifteen (15) sick days annually, fifteen (15) hours of personal time, and vacation commensurate with relevant experience. The City of South Portland is proud of its talented and dedicated workforce and provides employees job stability; a positive, family friendly workplace where work/life needs are valued and supported; and the support, encouragement and tools for successful careers.  The City of South Portland values diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and embraces sustainable operations. Come join our team dedicated to service excellence!

Salary Range:  $86,989-$116,239 depending on experience.  This position is eligible for annual step increases, and possible annual cost of living increases as approved by the City Council.

Application materials will be accepted and reviewed until the position is filled. 

Job description and fillable application are available on our website at www.southportland.gov.

To apply please send a cover letter, resume, application and three professional references to [email protected], or mail them to us at:

City of South Portland

Genny Dyer, Human Resources Generalist

25 Cottage Road

South Portland, Maine 04106

EOE