Senior Economic Developer

Capitalize Albany Corporation seeks a Senior Economic Developer to lead real estate development programs, supervise project financing, and drive economic development strategies that strengthen Albany's tax base and business climate. This onsite role is based in Albany, NY, with a salary in the range of USD 75,000 to 95,000 per year.

Responsibilities

• Act as project manager for economic development initiatives and investment opportunities, overseeing inquiries and maintaining an active development pipeline.
• Plan and supervise programs and staff related to project financing and management, and oversee the development and implementation of internal and external projects and grants, ensuring alignment with goals and deadlines.
• Oversee IDA and CRC applications from intake to closing, including evaluating eligibility, underwriting and financial analysis, and preparing project summaries, resolutions, and supporting documentation.
• Monitor project compliance with agency policies and state and local reporting requirements, including compiling annual project data and submitting it to New York State.
• Manage the administrative duties of three boards (Capitalize Albany, the City of Albany Industrial Development Agency, and the City of Albany Capital Resources Corporation), including project tracking, attending and preparing minutes, and producing presentations and materials for monthly meetings.
• Assist developers with site selection, permitting, financing, and incentive programs.
• Identify funding opportunities and assist in preparing grant applications to secure resources for the Corporation or the City of Albany.
• Maintain an inventory of available development sites and properties.
• Compile and disseminate information on desirable locations, land availability, tax structures, utilities, transportation, labor, financing (including tax-exempt options), and other community resources related to relocation or expansion.
• Assist in preparing and reviewing RFPs for services related to real estate development and other Corporation initiatives or required services.
• Develop and implement economic development strategies and plans that align with community goals.
• Assist with the development and administration of incentive programs.
• Support neighborhood commercial corridors and downtown revitalization efforts.
• Interact professionally with government officials, business leaders, community and neighborhood organizations, and the public to foster partnerships and support economic initiatives.
• Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with banks, real estate brokers, utilities, and chambers of commerce to monitor economic development in the City.
• Establish liaison with banks, commerce groups, and trading companies to encourage investors to locate in the City.
• May act as the Corporation’s designee with community and neighborhood organizations, representing the organization at events or meetings to discuss economic development initiatives and build relationships.
• May serve as staff or designee to related boards and development organizations, such as local Business Improvement Districts, Albany IDA, Capital Resource Corporation, and Albany Community Development Agency.
• Assist with producing and distributing materials for the organization, including official correspondence and regular updates to the website regarding projects and meetings.
• Conduct research and provide recommendations on economic development opportunities and best practices in business development, real estate development, and strategic planning.
• Evaluate results of economic development studies and advise on opportunities for growth, investment, and innovation.
• Evaluate the needs of businesses seeking assistance and propose appropriate support packages.
• Prepare reports and presentations on economic development activities, outcomes, and trends for stakeholders and decision-makers.
• Additional duties as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, economic development, economics, public administration, or a related field, plus at least five years of hands-on experience; a master’s degree is preferred.
• Experience in the economic development field with solid knowledge of business development principles and project management practices.
• Understanding of real estate practices, data processing, and knowledge of economic financing practices (grant programs, loans, tax credits, PILOTs) with analytic skills including financial feasibility criteria.
• Familiarity with the New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process is preferred.
• Proven ability to interact effectively with business representatives, government officials, lending organizations, and real estate professionals.
• Well organized, personable, results-focused, and detail-oriented.
• Excellent people skills and strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Flexible and capable of managing multiple projects and tasks simultaneously in team and independent settings.
• Reliable transportation, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and strong word processing skills.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe, and WordPress is desirable.

Technologies

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Microsoft Office
• WordPress
• Adobe

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance