Economic Development Manager
Salary: $89,488 – $107,386 Annually
Location: Golden, CO | Full-Time | Flexible/Hybrid
Department: Community & Economic Development

Why Golden?

Golden is a vibrant mountain-front community where outdoor recreation meets a thriving local economy. Working here means more than a job—it’s a lifestyle. Stroll to restaurants and shops, access Clear Creek trails on your lunch break, and commute easily from across the metro.

Employees enjoy:

• Generous Paid Time Off: 16 vacation days, 12 sick days, 12 paid holidays

• Robust Benefits: Up to 8% retirement match, full health and dental, tuition reimbursement, professional development, and employee wellness programs

Position Overview

Reporting to the Community Development Director, the Economic Development Manager provides strategic leadership for Golden’s economic vitality. This role manages day-to-day department operations, oversees staff, and partners with City leadership, boards, and the business community on initiatives that strengthen Golden’s economy.

The manager serves as the City’s primary contact for business retention, expansion, recruitment, and redevelopment efforts. They also guide catalytic projects, coordinate data and market analysis, and may act as Executive Director for the Golden Urban Renewal Authority and Downtown Development Authority.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership:
  Develop and implement long-term strategies and annual action plans aligned with City economic development goals. Identify funding, partnerships, and program priorities that encourage sustainable growth.

• Business Engagement:
  Serve as liaison to local companies, property owners, entrepreneurs, and commercial brokers. Support small business vitality by providing demographic information, site planning guidance, and access to resources. Organize site visits with City leaders to maintain strong relationships with major employers.

• Catalytic Projects:
  Act as the first point of contact for significant development proposals. Assist applicants in navigating City processes, recommend viable pathways, and resolve inquiries or concerns with a focus on excellent customer service.

• Community & Regional Collaboration:
  Represent Golden at regional economic and workforce agencies, industry trade organizations, and community meetings. Build partnerships with non-profits, chambers of commerce, and civic groups to align economic initiatives.

• Data & Analysis:
  Maintain accurate economic indicators, real estate trends, and employment statistics. Analyze sales tax revenues, development trends, and market reports to inform policy decisions and prepare presentations for City Council, Boards, and Commissions.

• Marketing & Communications:
  Work closely with the Communications Department to promote Golden’s business climate and City services. Lead outreach efforts, public engagement, and special events for the business community.

• Governance & Reporting:
  Provide operational management for the Economic Development Commission and related authorities. Prepare budgets, reports, and recommendations for City leadership. Deliver clear, actionable information to stakeholders on issues of economic concern.

• Staff Management:
  Recruit, train, and evaluate Economic Development staff. Foster professional growth, set performance expectations, and ensure alignment with City values of customer service and collaboration.

• Special Projects:
  Coordinate grants, redevelopment studies, and initiatives that attract investment while preserving Golden’s unique character.

Desired Qualifications

• Education & Experience:
  Bachelor’s degree in economic development, business/public administration, urban planning, marketing, or related field. Minimum five (5) years’ experience in project management, planning, or economic development, including two (2) years of supervisory responsibility. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

• Technical Knowledge:
  Understanding of business development techniques, redevelopment strategies, and catalytic project management. Familiarity with market research, site analysis, and funding mechanisms.

• Skills & Competencies:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving ability

  • Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and relationship-building skills

  • Skilled at presenting complex information clearly to business leaders, boards, and the public

  • Capable of managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines with minimal supervision

  • Commitment to high-quality customer service and community engagement

• Licenses & Certifications:
  Valid driver’s license with good driving record. AICP certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with:

• Knowledge of municipal government processes and economic policy tools

• Ability to interpret financial reports, legal documents, and technical plans

• Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, proposals, and presentations

• Capacity to work with diverse stakeholders, resolve complex challenges, and represent the City professionally

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position is primarily office-based with occasional field visits and community events. Regular use of standard office equipment; moderate noise environment. Employees may occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Occasional exposure to outdoor conditions when meeting at project sites or attending events.

Equal Opportunity

The City of Golden is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all hiring and employment practices.