Executive Director of Economic Development

Executive Director Of Economic Development

The City of Missouri City seeks a dynamic and experienced Executive Director of Economic Development to lead all economic development initiatives for one of the fastest-growing and most diverse cities in the Houston metropolitan area.

Under administrative direction from the City Manager, the Executive Director plans, organizes, and manages all functions and activities of the Economic Development Department. This position plays a key role in creating and maintaining a business-friendly environment that supports economic growth, job creation, and investment within Missouri City. The Director also serves as a strategic advisor to the City Manager, City Council, and executive leadership team, representing Missouri City in regional, state, and national forums.

This role requires strong business acumen, deep knowledge of Texas economic development programs, and proven leadership in building public-private partnerships. Collaboration with key regional partners, including the Fort Bend Economic Development Partnership (Fort Bend EDP), the Greater Houston Partnership, and the Governor's Office of Economic Development & Tourism, is central to this position.

Leads all economic development programs, services, and activities for Missouri City.

Develops and oversee the City's comprehensive economic development strategy, focusing on business attraction, retention, and expansion.

Identifies and pursues strategic opportunities to attract high-quality commercial, retail, industrial, and mixed-use development.

Manages and negotiates incentive agreements, including Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreements, TIRZ, Opportunity Zones, and other Texas-specific programs.

Oversees business attraction and retention activities, including market research, industry cluster analysis, site selection support, and community needs analysis.

Serves as the City's primary liaison to commercial developers, site selectors, real estate professionals, and business prospects.

Builds and maintains strong relationships with chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, utility partners, school districts, and regional economic players.

Provides regular briefings and updates to the City Manager, City Council, and Economic Development Committees.

Collaborates with Planning, Engineering, and other departments to ensure infrastructure and land-use plans support economic development goals.

Manages the department's budget, staff, policies, and contracts in alignment with organizational goals and compliance with all laws.

Promotes Missouri City through branding, marketing, public relations, trade shows, conferences, and investor meetings.

Monitors legislative and market trends and recommend policy updates that impact economic development.

Bachelor's degree in Economics, Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field. Master's degree preferred.

Seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, community development, or a related field.

Four (4) years of supervisory / management experience.

Experience in a municipal government setting in Texas is highly desirable.

Possess or obtain a valid Texas Driver's License by the time of hire.

Certifications : Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), or International Certified City / County Management Association (ICMA-CM) is preferred.