DDA DIRECTOR
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
To plan, direct, coordinate and oversee the programs and operations of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), including creation and implementation of economic development, redevelopment and marketing strategies and programs; in conjunction with the Boards of Directors, to coordinate assigned activities with downtown businesses, the City of Grand Junction and outside agencies; and to provide general information and assistance to the public.
JOB CLASSIFICATION
Exempt, Non-Safety Sensitive.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direction and supervision from the Downtown Development Authority Board of Directors.
Exercises direct supervision over professional and clerical staff.
PRIMARY DUTIES--The following are examples of primary duties assigned to positions in this classification. Other related duties and responsibilities may be assigned.
1. Develop and implement short and long term economic development, housing, and redevelopment strategies for the downtown Grand Junction area; develop program objectives, policies and priorities; plan, schedule and carry out economic development program activities.
2. Develop and implement programs for downtown business enhancement, retention and expansion including actively promoting downtown to potential business tenants; coordinate downtown marketing efforts with various City and community organizations; evaluate effectiveness of programs.
3. Establish appropriate service and staffing levels; monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; allocate resources accordingly.
4. Select, train, motivate and evaluate assigned personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline and termination procedures.
5. Research, compile and analyze economic and demographic data; prepare a variety of reports.
6. Serve as liaison to the business community, Chamber of Commerce, Grand Junction Economic Partnership, Housing Authority, special district partners and other agencies in furthering the Downtown Development Authority's economic development objectives.
7. Work cooperatively with the business community and the City of Grand Junction in assessing and developing parking programs for the downtown area.
8. Communicate the actions of the Director and staff to the Boards of Directors on a regular basis.
9. Write grant proposals and administer grant funding received from outside agencies; manage and provide accountability for internal grant programs.
10. Prepare for and participate in negotiations for acquisition/disposition or lease of real estate needed for downtown development projects.
11. Oversee and participate in the development and administration of the Downtown Development Authority budget; approve the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies; approve expenditures and implement budgetary adjustments as appropriate and necessary.
12. Represent the Downtown Development Authority to a variety of boards, commissions, outside agencies and community groups; prepare and present staff reports and other necessary correspondence.
13. Generate and enhance awareness of the Downtown Development Authority's functions through public appearances, local public service organizations and City-wide events.
14. Operate under the framework set forth in the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Grand Junction and the Downtown Development Authority (2002).
15. Develop agendas and staff reports for DDA meetings.
16. Complete other tasks that may arise as assigned by the DDA Board.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Economic development principles, practices and techniques.
Principles and practices of program development and administration.
Economic, development and demographic trends in Western Colorado.
Laws, ordinances, regulations and policies of various governmental agencies as they affect the business community and economic development efforts.
State statutes and all powers and responsibilities of downtown development authorities.
Community agencies and resources.
Basic statistical methods for management analysis.
Principles and practices of budget preparation and administration.
Principles of supervision, training and performance evaluation.
Methods and techniques of effective report preparation and presentation.
Ability to:
Develop and administer organizational goals, objectives and procedures.
Analyze and assess programs, policies and operational needs and make appropriate adjustments.
Identify and respond to sensitive community and organizational issues, concerns and needs.
Manage complex capital improvement projects, meet critical deadlines, and coordinate with contractors and public partners.
Direct, coordinate, and evaluate the work of subordinate level staff.
Select, supervise, train and evaluate staff.
Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
Prepare clear and concise administrative and financial reports.
Prepare and administer budgets.
Interpret and apply applicable Federal, State and local policies, laws and regulations.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Four years of increasingly responsible experience in public economic development planning, urban redevelopment, or related field including two years of senior level management responsibility.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in public or business administration, urban planning, engineering, or closely related field.
License or Certificate
Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid driver's license.
City of Grand Junction Leadership Track certification within two (2) years of appointment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions:
Office environment; some travel to other locations; extensive public contact.
Physical Conditions:
Primary functions require maintaining physical condition necessary for effectively performing assigned functions and may include sitting for prolonged periods of time; communicating with others; speaking in public; and travelling to other locations.