Our firm has been retained to find the Senior Vice President of Economic Development – a newly created position – for the third largest Chamber of Commerce in North Carolina.  Our client has a $4MM budget and 2000+ members and is currently raising a $3.5MM SuperFund. 

The Economic Development department has a budget of $800,000 and seven employees who staff and carry out the mission for a public-private partnership.  Reporting to the Chamber President & CEO, the successful candidate will demonstrate:

• compelling leadership; strategic vision; the ability to create excitement and momentum; outstanding communications skills; a consensus builder;

• at least 10 to 12 – and perhaps significantly more – years of successful economic development experience; responsibility for visioning, strategic planning, business development and government partnerships; must be a collaborative manager with a commitment to internal and external teams;

• direct experience with research institutes and initiatives (weather and sustainability are two active areas at present), entrepreneurs, grants, knowledge-based industries, private equity and venture capital, and healthcare is a big plus;

• strong familiarity with legacy public-private development projects including financing vehicles (TIF, tax overlay districts, bonds, leasebacks, etc.), someone who has played a key role in major revenue and job creation initiatives;

• high energy level; enthusiasm; and a commitment to excellence; a comfortable fit with a southeastern mountain culture;

• bachelor’s degree from a respected college or university;

This is a unique opportunity in a much-loved, vibrant and growing community.  Our client Chamber is at the hub of a four-county MSA with a population of 400,000.  This area frequently pops up on a variety of “best lists” including “Top 12 Places (worldwide) To Visit” (Frommer’s) and “Top Communities for Business and Careers” (Forbes). 

Please contact resume4@sockwell.com to suggest potential candidates and/or networking sources or to express confidential personal interest.