Economic Development Director

Hiring Salary $145,163–$215,496 DOE/DOQ. Job Summary The City of Goodyear, Arizona, is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to serve as its next Economic Development Director. This executive‑level position is responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing the full scope of operations within the City’s Economic Development Department.

Key areas of responsibility include Business Attraction, Business Retention and Expansion, Redevelopment, the Goodyear Office of Tourism, and Goodyear’s InnovationHub, as well as the integrated functions of data analytics and marketing/communications. The Director serves as the official representative of the department to elected officials, the City Manager’s Office, internal departments, and external partners and agencies. This role leads the development and execution of the City’s comprehensive business development strategy, collaborating with stakeholders to implement innovative programs that position Goodyear as a premier destination for investment, business growth, and economic vitality.

Essential Functions Directs and oversees the City’s economic development program, establishing department goals, policies, priorities, and managing the department budget. Leads the development, negotiation, and execution of complex development agreements, incentive packages, public‑private partnerships, and redevelopment contracts, working collaboratively with the Legal Department to ensure compliance and risk mitigation. Advises City management, the Mayor, and City Council through briefings, presentations, and written reports on major economic development, redevelopment, tourism, and small business initiatives.

Coordinates department activities and major projects with internal departments, external agencies, consultants, and private‑sector partners, providing high‑level support to the City Manager’s Office. Develops and implements marketing, business attraction, retention, and expansion strategies that strengthen Goodyear’s competitive position and support sustainable economic growth. Evaluates local, state, and national economic conditions and market trends to inform policy recommendations, program design, and long‑term economic development strategies.

Engages with community stakeholders, business leaders, and citizen groups to shape and execute short and long‑term economic development and tourism objectives. Requirements Bachelor’s degree in a related field (advanced certifications such as AZED Pro or CEcD preferred) Minimum of seven years of experience in economic development or a related field Valid driver’s license Ability to read and interpret complex legal documents, contracts, and development plans Strong analytical and mathematical skills, including algebra and statistics Advanced written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting to executive leadership and elected officials Proven leadership experience managing teams, programs, and departmental operations Experience with budget development, oversight, and fiscal management Strong decision‑making skills with the ability to operate independently within broad organizational goals Advanced technical knowledge related to economic development programs, strategy, and implementation High‑level interpersonal and negotiation skills, with the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders Benefits Vacation Leave: 14 days per year, increasing with longevity; enhanced vacation benefit recognizing total years of service under all Arizona public retirement systems. Sick Leave: 12 days per year Holidays: 12 paid holidays per year, including one floating holiday the first full pay period of January Flexible Holiday: 24 hours per calendar year (prorated based on hire date) Health Insurance: Three health plans available at a group rate Dental Insurance: Two dental plans available at a group rate Vision Insurance: Available at a group rate Flexible Spending Accounts: Health Care and Dependent Care accounts available Short Term Disability Insurance: City‑paid coverage Cancer Benefit: City‑paid coverage Life Insurance: City‑paid insurance valued at twice the annual salary ($400,000 maximum); additional life insurance for self and/or dependent available at employee's cost Longevity pay beginning at year six Tuition Assistance: $5,250 per calendar year Employee Assistance Program On‑site wellness center/clinic Access to the Goodyear Recreation Center Robust employee well‑being program Free identity theft monitoring and protection with Aura 457 Deferred Compensation Plan: 2% city match (employee contributes 1%) Retirement Health Savings: $22.50 city contribution (employee contributes $12.50 per pay period) Retirement: Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) Defined Benefit plan with mandatory city and employee contributions currently at 12.00%; plan includes Long Term Disability Benefit. #J-18808-Ljbffr