Economic Development Opportunity

Econ Dev Opportunity Image

The City of Norfolk is seeking an experienced, innovative and results oriented, community-focused professional to lead, plan and direct the activities of the Department of Economic Development. 

The opportunity includes: 

  • Moving assistance
  • Car allowance
  • Signing Bonus

The Department focuses on the retention, expansion and attraction of businesses within the City and serves as the primary contact with the business community including promoting the competitive advantages of Norfolk. 

For more information, visit www.norfolkdevelopment.com and view Norfolk’s Community Profile

Candidate Characteristics Image

The ideal candidate is an exceptional leader with broad senior management and technical experience. In addition, the ideal candidate must be a visionary with innovative ideas and insight on new and/or emerging industries. 

The ideal candidate will successfully demonstrate the ability to network, build meaningful relationships, and effectively communicate the mission of the organization. 

The incumbent should possess a high level of initiative, interpersonal and cultural sensitivity, creative and flexible problem-solving skills as well as a strong business and political acumen to work effectively with citizens, elected officials, and external businesses and government agencies.  

The ideal candidate should be able to demonstrate superior leadership qualities based on prior experience and proven accomplishments in the economic development arena or a related field. 

The minimum requirements for the position is a Bachelor’s degree in Public or Business Administration, Economics, City Planning or a related field to include at least 7 years of directly related experience in a senior leadership capacity.

Further, the incumbent must have a strong knowledge of business creation and development in an effort  to identify with current and prospective business owners. 

Department Overview Image

The Department of Economic Development strives  to magnify the quality of life in the City of Norfolk through business retention, expansion, enhancement, and new business development that is complementary to our neighborhoods. 

The department assists in growing and diversifying the local economy as well as creating competitive employment opportunities. These actions contribute positively to the City of Norfolk’s vision as a great place to live, work, learn, and play. In addition, the Department of Development provides support to local cultural organizations to facilitate community outreach, enrich cultural amenities, and enhance the quality of life for citizens and visitors. 

The Department is currently structured into five (5) divisions, which include Business Development Services, Marketing and Promotion Services, Special Economic Development District Services and Veterans and Workforce Development Services.  

The Department has a budget of approximately $1.9 million and 21 FTE’s.

About Norfolk Image
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Key Industries Image

Top industries in Norfolk, VA: 

  • Advanced Manufacturing 
  • Business, Management, and Professional Services
  • Information Technology
  • Healthcare, Life Sciences, and Biotechnology
  • Insurance
  • Offshore Wind
  • Maritime, Transportation and Logistics
By the Numbers Image

Norfolk is exceptionally diverse and the largest majority-minority locality in the Commonwealth. Such variety inspires creativity and drives innovation. Our diversity of race, culture and perspective contribute to the city’s vibrant, rich environment and is a great asset for area businesses.

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Median Household Income
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Compensation and Benefits Image

The salary for the position is commensurate with experience.

The City of Norfolk offers the following:

  • Competitive salary
  • Health, vision, dental and retirement 
  • Relocation Assistance

This information is intended as an overview and introduction to the benefits offered.

Application Process Image

Next Steps:

Interested applicants may apply on-line or obtain additional information here.  

This position is open until filled. 

References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. 

City residency must be established within six (6) months of appointment. The position is an unclassified, senior executive position which serves at the pleasure of the City Manager.

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