Economic Development Director

The historic, charming and unique City of Lodi is ideally located 34 miles south of Sacramento, two miles north of Stockton, and 90 miles east of San Francisco. The residents of Lodi take immense pride in their community that is surrounded by lush parks, wineries, museums, a lake and open space.  The city is committed to quality growth while striving to protect its historical, small-town ambiance.  Lodi is also a safe city as crime rates are low and community pride reigns high, reflecting active community involvement and a strong public safety structure.  By all measures, the quality of life in the City of Lodi is exceptional and provides an ideal location in which to live, work and play.

The Economic Development Director (EDD) is a newly created and highly visible position reporting to the City Manager.  Within this single position department, the new Director will be a key member of the City’s Executive Team and will be Lodi’s most active business champion and advocate.  The primary goal of the EDD is to drive economic vitality through the expansion and retention of business enterprise and to attract and facilitate commercial and industrial development throughout the community. In support of the City Council’s Strategic Vision, Economic Development efforts will focus on several priorities.  The development of a long-term economic development strategic plan is the initial critical component of the position.  The EDD will establish credibility and confidence with the wide array of community partners and businesses in identifying, mobilizing, and coordinating united efforts to drive economic initiatives.

The position requirements include five or more years of professional level experience in economic and/or business development and municipal services along with the equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in economics, urban planning, business, public administration, finance or a closely related field.  A Master’s degree is preferred.  Any combination equivalent to experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge, abilities, and skills will be qualifying. To be considered, please visit the Avery Associates Career Portal at www.averyassoc.net/current-searches/ to upload your letter of interest, resume and contact information including email addresses for five work-related references to Paul Kimura by December 1, 2023.