Job Description

City of Largo

Largo,FLUnited States

How to Apply

MGT is pleased to partner with the City of Largo (pop. 82,248) in search of top-tier candidates for its newly created position of Assistant Director of Community and Economic Development. This role presents a unique opportunity to oversee housing and economic development and help shape the future of Largo's landscape and economy. This new leader will be responsible for crafting a forward-looking economic development strategy that capitalizes on the City's strategic mid-county location and robust redevelopment opportunities.

This high-profile, hands-on leadership position will be responsible for cultivating strategic business relationships and advancing initiatives that drive the City's economic development goals. The Assistant Director leads a team of dedicated professionals to foster inclusive economic growth by:

• supporting and retaining existing businesses,
• attracting and nurturing new business ventures,
• facilitating real estate development, redevelopment, joint ventures, and community revitalization projects,
• engaging with potential investors while leading policy development, strategic planning, and budget oversight, while coordinating efforts across a diverse network of internal teams and external stakeholders and
• building a diverse and dynamic local economy by championing affordable living initiatives and ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and supports a high quality of life for all residents.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in economics, business administration, public administration, urban planning, or a directly related field. A master's degree is preferred. Public sector experience is preferred.
• At least 8 years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, urban planning, public policy with at least 2 years of leadership experience.
• Experience in real estate, public-private partnerships, grant writing, and community engagement is required.
• Proven track record in business attraction, retention, and expansion initiatives.
• Certifications relevant to the required job duties as preferred

High Impact Opportunities

• Lead transformative growth and innovative marketing for the City of Largo — one of the region's most vibrant and emerging hubs of culture, commerce, and community connection. This is a unique opportunity to shape the city's economic future and leave a lasting impact on its regional success.
• Successfully launch a new division from the ground up — recruiting a high-performing economic development team, setting a strategic vision, and aligning direction through collaborative leadership engagement. As the inaugural leader, you'll have the chance to recruit and mentor two key positions — an Economic Development Manager and Economic Development Coordinator. Add an experienced Horizon Operations Manager, and you'll be leading a dynamic team of four professionals, supported by administrative resources.
• Join a comprehensive economic development network spanning the entire City, united by common objectives and principles, collaborating across departments and disciplines to achieve ambitious strategic planning targets that bolster businesses, residents, and municipal operations.
• Your expertise in development and revitalization efforts will be instrumental in navigating intricate business transactions and part of the team representing the City in negotiations for economic development and redevelopment contracts.
• Explore the long-term potential of establishing a Certified Development Company (CDC) to enhance access to capital and support strategic economic growth initiatives.

Other Important Information

• The hiring range for this position is up to $147,700 - DOQ.
• The posting deadline date is Friday, June 27, 2025.
• Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with a resume, cover letter, application questions and contact information for five supervisory and/or professional references.
• For more information or confidential questions, please feel free to contact Joan Walko, MGT Senior Consultant at (410) 499-9586.
• Florida Sunshine Laws – Please be aware that all aspects of this recruitment are open to public records requests throughout the process.

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