Director of Economic Development

Start Date: May 05, 2025 | End Date: November 01, 2025
County: Cumberland County
Job Type: Manager, Other
More Information: Click here

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for economic growth, community partnerships, and strategic development? The City of Westbrook is seeking a Director of Economic & Community Development to lead efforts that drive economic vitality and improve the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. This is a full-time leadership position responsible for implementing strategies, projects, and initiatives that promote business retention, attract new investment, and support community revitalization. The full job description is available here.

Key Responsibilities:

• Developing and administering economic development strategies and programs, including Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
• Collaborating with state and federal agencies (HUD, DEP, DOT, EPA, etc.) to secure funding and resources.
• Advocating for local interests at the Maine State Legislature and engaging in legislative tracking and policy advancement.
• Facilitating commercial and real estate negotiations related to City-backed projects.
• Leading business recruitment, retention, and expansion efforts, including marketing initiatives.
• Preparing and managing grant applications and overseeing implementation of awarded programs.
• Supporting revitalization efforts in targeted neighborhoods and downtown areas.
• Managing programs like the City’s Façade Program and acting as staff liaison to the Westbrook Environmental Improvement Corporation.
• Supervising staff and working closely with the Chamber of Commerce, Planning Board, City Council, and other civic and development partners.

Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in economic or community development, public policy, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• IEDC certification preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in economic or community development, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Experience in legislative advocacy and policy work at the state level.
• Strong background in public-private partnerships, grant management, and strategic planning.
• Proven skills in negotiation, collaboration, and community engagement.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive salary range of $103,834.12 – $123,154.82/year, based on experience.
• This position is full-time, exempt, and non-union.
• A comprehensive benefits package includes medical (PPO plan at 12% premium cost, plus HRA reimbursement), dental, vision, life insurance (one times base salary), short and long-term disability, and employee assistance program.
• Generous paid leave including vacation, sick, and 13 holidays per year.
• Tuition reimbursement for job-related courses.
• Retirement program of the Maine Public Employees Retirement Plan (Maine PERS) or defined 457 with matching up to 6%.

Application Process:

Whether you have found us through our jobs page, Indeed, the Maine Municipal Association (MMA), Facebook, or other platforms, you can apply online, via email, or in-person. Be sure to include all necessary information, including the position applied for, salary requirement, experience, education, qualifications, and certifications.

• Online application
• Interested applicants should send their resume and letter of interest to the Human Resources Department at [email protected].
• In-Person Applications are available at 2 York Street, Westbrook, ME

Applicants selected as finalists for this position will be subject to a comprehensive reference, background and credit check.

The City of Westbrook is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination or harassment of any kind. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, gender identity, and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

The City of Westbrook is deeply committed to prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially in our hiring process. We value a diverse workforce and workplace and strongly encourage women, people of color, LGBT+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.

About the City of Westbrook:

Westbrook is a vibrant and growing city of over 20,000 residents located just minutes from Portland, Maine. Historically a mill town, Westbrook has transformed into a diverse residential and business hub known for its entrepreneurial spirit, access to natural resources, and strong community values. The City is home to approximately 195 full-time employees and 80 variable hour staff across several departments, all working collaboratively to support Westbrook’s continued growth and livability.

The Economic & Community Development Department is a dynamic team of four professionals focused on supporting existing businesses, facilitating smart growth, and improving infrastructure through public-private partnerships and strategic investment.