POSITION SUMMARY Working under the guidance of the Chief Programs and Operations Officer, the Director of Economic Development will support the organization's mission of maximizing self-sufficiency for families and individuals through high-quality programs and advocacy. The Director will define and develop the infrastructure and systems within the Economic Development department to support the organization's goals and measure impact. Specifically, the Director will create opportunities for increasing and strengthening pathways toward economic mobility for individuals receiving services through the network of human services programs. The Director of Economic Development will serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, providing expertise in the evaluation of economic and labor market trends, as well as innovations in workforce development and asset-building programming. The Director will also partner with the Philanthropy & Communications team to position the Economic Development department for funding. Key strategic priorities include:
- Place the people and communities we serve at the heart of our economic development efforts.
- Market and promote the organization as a strategic partner to deepen and scale impact.
- Ensure the organization is viewed as a key player in high-level discussions around the county on workforce development, homeownership, access to economic opportunity, and inclusive economic recovery.
The ideal candidate will have a passion for expanding access to economic opportunity, financial self-sufficiency, and community development. They should possess a strong work ethic, enjoy dynamic problem-solving, operate with a mission-first mindset, and have a track record of cultivating meaningful relationships with diverse partners. The Director will inspire and lead a diverse team to exceed organizational goals while addressing the needs and challenges of the communities served. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIESProgram Management
- Direct multiple publicly and privately funded programs, including but not limited to clean vehicle financing, zero-interest social loans, career pathways, wealth-building programs, utility assistance, and community development programs.
- Create, manage, and monitor the budget to ensure spending goals are met.
- Develop and monitor systems, processes, and procedures to ensure compliance with rules, regulations, and grant requirements.
- Train staff on grant requirements, reporting, and operations.
- Lead with a hands-on and highly supportive approach.
Fundraising and Revenue Development:
- Collaborate with the Philanthropy & Communications team to support fundraising efforts.
- Identify new revenue streams, steward existing funders, and engage with prospective funders.
- Ensure ongoing grants management with regular fiscal and outcome reports for the Economic Development department budget.
- Partner with other nonprofit organizations to pursue funding opportunities where appropriate.
Strategy and Culture
- Cultivate a collaborative, results-driven culture within the Economic Development and Child Development Department's Engagement and Economic Mobility teams, aligning staff with the organization's mission and strategic objectives.
- Serve as an ambassador, working to enhance the organization's profile.
- Engage with the team and stakeholders to understand community needs, challenges, and opportunities.
- Develop and elevate existing programs like Weatherization, Electric Vehicle Access, Lending Circles, and Energy and Water Assistance Programs.
- Craft and implement strategies to market and scale programs to meet goals.
- Instill a culture of workforce development and economic empowerment throughout the organization.
Operations & Administration
- Assist in staffing meetings and committees.
- Coordinate activities with other departments and agencies.
- Provide regular reports to senior leadership and the Board on progress towards economic development goals.
- Participate in the annual budget process and monitor program outcomes to ensure quality services.
- Supervise, mentor, and motivate staff, fostering professional development.
- Participate in special projects and perform additional tasks as assigned.
- Support hiring, onboarding, and training for key positions within the Economic Development department.
- Ensure program outcomes are developed and measured.
ATTRIBUTES & WORK STYLE
- Passionate about maximizing self-sufficiency for families and individuals.
- Skilled at connecting with people across communities, with a high level of emotional intelligence.
- Fosters a respectful, collaborative work environment, and actively participates in joint problem-solving.
- Driven by a growth mindset, always seeking opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Reflective and skilled at giving and receiving feedback.
- Focuses on continuous improvement, with a metrics-driven approach to leadership.
- Patient and diplomatic, handling difficult conversations tactfully.
- Pays meticulous attention to detail and demonstrates strong problem-solving skills.
- Agile and able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Communicates effectively, both written and verbally.
- Analytical, with an ability to study issues and identify trends.
- Punctual and reliable, meeting deadlines and following through on commitments.
- Business-savvy, with a strong ability to optimize workflows and manage people, systems, and programs.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
- Minimum 5 years of work experience in workforce development, social services, public policy, or community engagement.
- Experience working with diverse communities and special populations facing high barriers to economic mobility.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work with diverse stakeholders, including nonprofits, public sectors, and corporate and philanthropic organizations.
- Experience working with community-based organizations in San Diego County is preferred.
- Knowledge of resources and systems that support economically disadvantaged communities.
- Familiarity with the obstacles to education and employment faced by many individuals in San Diego County.
EDUCATION & ABILITIES
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
- Working knowledge of systems change strategies.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) is highly desirable.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to present data visually.
- Willingness to work occasional evenings/weekends and travel when required.
- Ability to read and interpret governmental regulations and grants.
- Strong meeting/event facilitation skills.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) is essential.