Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO)

About the Role:

Join the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) as its next CEO and become a key pillar in driving economic prosperity in one of Indiana’s most vibrant communities! With thriving industries, as home to the Orthopedic Capital of the World®, and with more than 100 lakes spread throughout the county, Kosciusko County offers ample business opportunities, a rich natural landscape, and a lifestyle that’s second to none. (Get a glimpse for yourself by checking out this short video.)

As CEO, you’ll represent KEDCO as a key leader in the community, responsible for overseeing various functions related to economic growth and strategic planning. As Chief Executive for the organization, you’ll represent KEDCO in the community in policy discussions, legislative matters, media interactions, and more. Reporting to the Board of Directors and as a non-voting member of the Executive Committee, you’ll provides direction, collaborative organizational leadership, and key contributions to strategic planning for the organization.

Economic Development Leadership:

• Represent KEDCO in all aspects of the organization, including community policy discussion, legislative strategy and testimony and media interviews, all based on a framework of goals, objectives and policies established by the Board of Directors.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with economic development and strategic community partners (public, private, and non-profit at local, regional, state, and national levels).
• Manage all aspects of lead generation, tracking and project coordination – and related coordination with area agencies.
• Lead fund development and investor relations, including appropriate oversight and support for the KEDCO team.
• Lead effective external communication with marketing team including coordination of press announcements, releases concerning economic development projects and/or closures, and highlighting the mission-driven action and accomplishments of the organization.
• Provide regular communication to the Board on economic development activities, and participate in policy discussions as needed.
• Provide leadership in strategy and goal setting for economic development metrics.
• Work alongside accounting partners to develop annual budget, manage budget, and update monthly budgetary forecasts.

Strategic and Succession Planning:

• Review and standardize personnel policies and procedures to improve efficiency of operations, and for the communication of approved policies to all staff.
• Continually assess training and growth opportunities for team members through performance evaluations and individual development plans.
• Manage matters within the team including promotions, transfers, terminations, and disciplinary actions, coordinating with the Board on a case-by-case basis as needed.
• Monitor challenges affecting the economic development talent base and recommend succession planning strategies.
• Monitor procedures for assessing talent for selection, promotion, and succession management, to ensure alignment and continuity within the organization.

Business Attraction:

• Spearhead business attraction projects and marketing efforts for new business development in Kosciusko County, and other contracted geographies.
• Serve as “first contact” for prospects/projects in a responsive and professional manner.
• Collaborate with team to ensure accuracy and effectiveness of marketing and outreach materials (print and electronic).
• Coordinate and host prospect/project visits – ensuring all needs are addressed and key contacts are made.
• Oversee sites and buildings database and monitor inventory on regular basis.

Business Retention & Expansion:

• Continue building upon a successful Business Retention and Expansion program.
• Collaborate with community partners and leverage resources for business opportunity and crisis responses.
• Provide exceptional follow-up to ensure business expectations are addressed and exceeded.
• Monitor existing business needs and trends to inform strategy and program development, aiming to position Kosciusko County as a leader in supporting businesses and fostering innovation.

We are a small (but mighty!) team, which means other duties may be assigned.

Salary & Benefits:

The starting salary range for this position is $120,000 – $130,000, commensurate with skills and experience. KEDCO’s benefits package includes health, vision, and dental insurance, SEP IRA, PTO, and paid holidays.

KEDCO is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and KEDCO welcomes all.

Join Us!

Submit Letter of Interest and Resume to:

Mr. Blaine Conley, Ed. S.

KEDCO Chair

Superintendent, Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation

8343 South State Road 19, Akron, IN 46910

conleyb@tvsc.k12.in.us

Want to Live Here?

Are you thinking about relocating to our community? We’d be thrilled to welcome you! If you haven’t already, check out this video and the digital lookbook below for a closer glimpse of what Kosciusko County has to offer! Want to schedule a customized tour of the community? Contact KEDCO Talent Partner Jessica Hauck at jhauck@kosciuskoedc.com.