Jorgenson Pace has been retained to conduct this search.
Established in 1994, the Emporia Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas (RDA) serves as the lead economic development organization for Emporia and Lyon County. With over $1 billion in capital investment and 2,800 jobs created since its founding, the RDA has a strong track record of fostering a pro-business environment. In collaboration with Emporia State University, Flint Hills Technical College, and local government agencies, the RDA leverages its resources to promote long-term regional economic success. Key services have included industrial site development, workforce development support, and securing state and federal incentives.
The organization is entering a new era of leadership and governance following recent changes to its structure and board composition. The next President will be expected to foster inclusive economic development, strengthen institutional partnerships to better align efforts with local talent and community priorities, and engage businesses of all sizes and stages. The ideal candidate will be energized by the opportunity to inspire, unify, and lead through both grassroots and transformational economic growth strategies.
The RDA seeks a visionary, results-driven leader to serve as President. This individual will guide the organization in advancing economic growth, fostering business expansion, and cultivating community partnerships to enhance the quality of life in Emporia and East Central Kansas. As the chief executive, the President will report to the Board of Directors and lead the organization in implementing strategies that align with RDA’s mission to proactively promote economic growth through commercial and industrial recruitment, workforce training enhancements, and the retention of existing businesses.
Key Responsibilities
· Organizational Leadership :
o Develop and implement strategic goals that consistently align with and reinforce the organization’s stated mission.
o Act as the primary spokesperson for the RDA and an advocate for the community’s economic vision.
o Foster an organizational culture focused on service excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
· Economic Development :
o Proactively identify and pursue business attraction and expansion opportunities; develop and implement a formal business retention program.
o Coordinate industrial and commercial development efforts to ensure a robust pipeline of economic growth initiatives.
o Secure and manage development-related funding from public, private, and nonprofit sources.
o Assist with industrial site development, speculative building projects, land acquisition, and cost analyses in collaboration with Emporia Enterprises.
o Research and maintain an inventory of available sites and buildings, including utilities, infrastructure, and development readiness.
o In coordination with city and county governments, oversee the development and implementation of local policies, such as tax abatements and performance-based incentives.
o Lead an inclusive strategy supporting businesses of all sizes through fair vetting, collaboration with Chamber and Main Street, and grassroots incentives for sustainable growth.
· Community Engagement :
o Build relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials (local and state), utility providers, educational institutions, local businesses, and the corporate offices of businesses located in Emporia and Lyon County.
o Represent Emporia at state, regional, and national events, including economic development conferences and industry gatherings.
o Actively participate in community events to promote the RDA’s mission and projects.
o Promote, educate, and encourage citizen involvement in economic and industrial growth through public outreach and communication efforts.
· Financial and Administrative Oversight :
o Develop and manage the organization’s annual budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with strategic priorities.
o Oversee financial performance, including reporting and compliance with regulatory requirements.
o Provide regular updates to the RDA Board of Directors on economic development initiatives, challenges, successes, and business retention issues.
o Prepare monthly and annual financial reports in collaboration with the Treasurer and ensure responsible stewardship of public funds, maintaining transparency, accountability, and trust in the use of taxpayer dollars.
· Marketing and Communications :
o Develop and execute marketing plans to promote Emporia and Lyon County as attractive destinations for business investment.
o Leverage media channels and public relations strategies to communicate the RDA’s initiatives and successes.
o Coordinate direct sales campaigns and site visits with prospective businesses and developers.
Ideal Candidate Profile
· Experience :
o A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, business development, or a related field. 5 years of experience in a senior leadership role focused on industrial economic development preferred.
o Proven ability to deliver economic development results, manage projects, and build effective partnerships.
o Proven track record of building consensus among diverse stakeholders and leading complex organizations.
o Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in business or with business coursework; Master’s Degree preferred. CEcD or EDFP designation, or substantial progress towards an economic development professional designation, will be a plus.
o A leader who understands the value of place and is committed to long-term, balanced growth.
· Skills :
o Strong analytical, strategic planning, and creative problem-solving abilities.
o Knowledge of business needs and incentives available to attract and retain.
o Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire confidence and build trust.
o Proficiency in leveraging public relations and marketing strategies to enhance community visibility and support.
· Characteristics :
o A visionary and big-picture thinker with a practical approach to implementation.
o An energetic and proactive leader who is visible and engaged in the community.
o Politically savvy and diplomatic, with the ability to navigate complex governmental and organizational relationships.
o Strong work and business ethics.
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