Economic Development Manager

The City of Topeka is seeking an experienced and dynamic Economic Development Manager to lead efforts in identifying, planning and facilitating high-impact redevelopment projects. Focus areas include both commercial and residential parcels, with particular attention to economically disadvantaged or physically deteriorated neighborhoods. This role may also involve the acquisition of targeted sites to support long-term redevelopment and revitalization goals across the community.

What you'll do:

• Monitor progress toward established economic development goals, policies, and benchmarks.
• Develop, maintain, and present strategic economic development plans, reports, and performance metrics.
• Build partnerships and engage stakeholders to obtain support for projects that improve housing, infrastructure, public spaces, commercial areas, and job opportunities.
• Assess underutilized or vacant structures, and vacant lots owned by City of Topeka, Land Bank, or private parties for potential adaptive reuse, considering zoning, physical condition, market demand, and economic viability. Coordinate with Land Bank to market available parcels. Conduct economic and demographic research to inform redevelopment strategy and investment prioritization.
• Provide technical assistance to property owners and developers interested in pursuing redevelopment projects. Offer guidance on available financial incentives and programs.
• Identify new and manage existing economic development incentives, including the administration of grants, loans and tax incentive programs.

The ideal candidate is:

• A critical thinker with the ability to analyze information, solve complex problems, and make sound decisions.
• An excellent communicator with the ability to effectively provide guidance and expert advice across all levels of the organization.
• Knowledgeable about the economic tools offered by the City, Greater Topeka Partnership, County, and State.
• Familiar with the development process, including site planning, platting, zoning, permitting, traffic impact studies and stormwater.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Economics, Urban Planning, Political Science, Finance or a related field.
• Four or more years of experience in community development, economic development, real estate, planning or local government.
• Must be insurable within the standards set by the City of Topeka insurance carrier and must possess and maintain a valid Kansas driver's license.

Annual Entry Salary: $90,000 - $100,000, depending on qualifications

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The City of Topeka offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Health/Dental Insurance
• Paid Life/Long Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Vacation & Holidays
• KPERS 401(a) Retirement Plan
• (457) Deferred Comp Savings Plan
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Free Onsite Health & Wellness Clinic
• Full-service fitness facility
• Free Parking
• Employee Assistance Program

The City of Topeka is an Equal Opportunity Employer