Job Description

Overview This position is responsible for supporting community and economic development planning activities throughout the Township of Lower Merion. The position requires an understanding of the Township’s municipal planning process, while focusing on supporting the economic development and placemaking of the Township’s commercial areas. Responsibilities Develop and implement policies and programs to support the Township’s economic development goals. Act as a liaison with local business organizations and undertake special assignments within the Planning Division. Support community and economic development planning activities under the general supervision of the Assistant Director of Planning. Implement business enhancement programs for commercial districts, prepare financial analyses, and submit and manage applications for funding available for public improvements on projects related to retail/commercial development. Conduct research and data analysis in connection with grants and special projects relating to economic development and placemaking. Collaborate with Township departments, Business Improvement Districts and developers/property owners. Maintain a current database/inventory for commercial areas in the Township and other pertinent economic and business data. Assist in the development and implementation of commercial district master plans and enhancement strategies. Develop a variety of Township-sponsored programs designed to enhance the Township's commercial districts. Act as a liaison to the Business Improvement Districts and other business associations (e.g., Main Line Chamber of Commerce) and groups involved in enhancing the Township. Assist in preparing grants and administering and monitoring grant funds and other sources of funding for public improvements on projects related to retail/commercial development. Assist in preparing, administering and monitoring requests for proposals, financial analyses and other required reports. Support business associations, facilitate a cooperative climate between business interests and local officials, and encourage activities such as promotional events, advertising, store hours, special events, business recruitment, and parking management. Provide technical assistance to advisory committees, ad-hoc or other public engagement opportunities. Deliver public presentations regarding Township economic development activities. Respond to inquiries, questions and comments regarding economic development per established standards and protocols; address difficult and sensitive inquiries, issues and complaints. Uphold strict confidentiality in dealing with sensitive information, including legal documents, financial data, contracts, and other proprietary information. May be required to attend evening or weekend meetings and events based on organizational responsibilities and requirements. Attend and participate in professional group meetings; stay current on new trends and best practices. Perform duties of lower-level classifications, as necessary. May be assigned to other departments or divisions to perform required duties, as needed. Qualifications A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, community and economic development, business administration or related field and a minimum of five (5) years relevant field experience; or a master’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in urban planning, community and economic development, business administration or related field and a minimum of three (3) years of relevant field experience. Progressively responsible experience in downtown management or economic development. Designated member of Pennsylvania Downtown Center preferred; candidates not designated must obtain membership within 6 months of hire. Comprehensive knowledge of economics development programs and the principles and practices of public and business administration. Good understanding of municipal land use planning (subdivision, land development, zoning), and community and economic development principles. Experience working with a broad range of governmental agencies and private businesses in advancing economic development policies and programs. Knowledge and experience with urban planning and placemaking principles. Proficiency in collection, interpretation and communication of economic development data. Grant writing and grant administration experience. Ability to prepare and present comprehensive financial and administrative reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, public officials, businesses, citizen groups and the general public. Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a service-oriented team. Skill in adapting to a changing work environment and competing demands. Ability to manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines and move projects efficiently to achieve customer and quality objectives. Ability to use critical thinking, exercise initiative and independent judgement. Strong communication and presentation skills, both verbally and in writing. Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Outlook, Excel) and collaboration tools (Teams, OneDrive); willingness to learn department-specific software as required. Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure, diffuse confrontations, and resolve disputes. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license. Physical Requirements Ability to sit for 5 to 8 hours, stand 1 to 3 hours, and walk or drive 1 to 2 hours per day. Bend/stoop and squat, reach above shoulder level, crouch; lift and push/pull up to 35% of the workday. Lift and carry up to 24 pounds of files and office equipment up to 35% of the workday; lift up to 34 pounds of equipment up to 35% of the workday. Fine motor skills for handling and repetitive movements with both hands. Valid driver’s license required to drive an automobile. #J-18808-Ljbffr Lower Merion Township

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