GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB:

Facilitates, recruits and supports the development and retention of entrepreneurial businesses in Ashe County, and assists the County Manager with departmental oversight. Departmental oversight will include the Planning Department.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

A minimum of a four-year degree in business, marketing, finance, public administration, planning, or related field preferred, supplemented with additional experience in business start-ups and/or other economic development activities. The applicant must have knowledge of entrepreneurial development strategies, along with a willingness to provide support to ongoing economic development activities. The applicant must possess the following skills: excellent oral and written communication skills; exceptional organizational skills; the ability to function independently as well as part of an overall team; the ability to handle multiple tasks; and the ability to work with a diverse array of people. The applicant should also present a professional image and be able to handle confidential information. Grant writing experience is preferred. A North Carolina drivers license or the ability to receive one is required.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Business and Industry Development

1. Assists the County Manager in responding to business and industry inquiries, including scheduling and coordinating visits.
2. Works with existing businesses and industries to encourage retention and expansion.
3. Identifies and maintains information on existing and potential buildings and sites suitable for industrial or significant commercial use.
4. Assists the County Manager in the creation of appropriate marketing tools.
5. Maintains close contact with local, state, regional, federal, and private organizations to promote and enhance industrial development.
6. Enthusiastically facilitates the development of new entrepreneurial businesses and the retention and expansion of entrepreneurial businesses in Ashe County.
7. Develops and maintains a toolbox for existing and potential entrepreneurs, bringing together a myriad of resources and materials into a concise, user-friendly format.
8. Serves as a primary, single-source contact for individuals interested in starting a small business and coordinates with other agencies to ensure the individuals needs are met.
9. Identifies financial resources and seeks further funding to assist with entrepreneurial development.

Assistant County Manager

[]{sty=""}