EXISTING INDUSTRY MANAGER (Exempt)

About the Columbus Partnership

The Columbus Partnership is a nonprofit organization of CEOs from Columbus' leading businesses and institutions. Through our membership and other ally organizations across Central Ohio, the Partnership upholds a shared vision to make Columbus the most prosperous region in the country.

The Columbus Partnership also includes One Columbus, one of the nation's top economic development teams that serves the 11-county Columbus Region; and Smart Columbus, a civic innovation lab that advances what is new and next at the intersection of technology and community good.

Can you imagine Columbus as the most prosperous region in the United States, where more and more people are able to improve their economic and social well-being? We do, every day.

The Role

In this role, the focus is on strengthening relationships with existing employers across the Columbus Region and helping companies identify opportunities for growth, investment and long-term success. The existing industry manager serves as a key connector between businesses, economic development partners and internal teams, helping ensure companies have access to the resources and support needed to thrive.

The position supports high-impact business retention and expansion efforts by coordinating company engagement activities, facilitating communication among local and state partners, tracking business intelligence and identifying opportunities that may lead to future investment or expansion projects. Responsibilities include managing follow-up activities, supporting incentive and grant program administration, preparing proposals and reports, and maintaining accurate records and project activity within Salesforce.

This opportunity is well suited for someone who enjoys building relationships, solving problems and working at the intersection of business, economic development and regional collaboration. The role involves engagement with employers, community partners, investors and stakeholders throughout the 11-county region while gaining experience in business retention, expansion strategy and regional economic competitiveness.

Report to: Director, Existing Industry

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support the execution of business retention and expansion strategies designed to strengthen existing employers and promote long-term economic growth throughout the region.
• Coordinate and prepare for company engagement activities by gathering relevant business intelligence, research and market information to support productive discussions and informed decision-making.
• Collaborate with local, regional and state partners to plan, coordinate and follow up on company visits, meetings and strategic engagement opportunities.
• Identify business opportunities, challenges and emerging risks and communicate actionable recommendations to internal teams and partner organizations.
• Connect companies with resources, programs, incentives and subject matter experts that support business growth, workforce needs and operational success.
• Prepare professional correspondence, market information, proposals and other materials that support company engagement and business development activities.
• Analyze information gathered through business retention and expansion efforts to identify trends, opportunities and insights that inform strategy, reporting and stakeholder communications.
• Support the evaluation, administration and ongoing management of business assistance and grant programs, ensuring alignment with established program requirements and objectives.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of company engagement activities, relationship management efforts and project updates within designated CRM systems.
• Track meeting outcomes, follow-up activities and action items to ensure responsiveness, accountability and consistent stakeholder engagement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, economic development partners, investors, local governments, chambers and community stakeholders throughout the region.
• Represent the organization professionally in interactions with businesses, partners and stakeholders while serving as a trusted resource and connector within the regional economic development ecosystem.
• Collaborate across internal teams to support business retention, expansion and investment opportunities and advance organizational priorities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a background in planning, development, real estate, business or related field.
• 5 - 10 years' experience in economic development or related field.
• Valid driver's license and clean motor vehicle report required.

Keys Skills and Experience

• Economic development experience preferred.
• Excellent research and analytical skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ohio CED or CEcD preferred.
• MBA or MPA preferred.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced team environment.
• A self-starter with the ability to set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Professionalism and discretion in handling highly confidential matters is a requirement of this position.
• The ability to communicate effectively both internally and externally is essential.
• Proficient in the use of all Microsoft Office programs, Adobe Acrobat and Salesforce.

Workplace Environment

• Travel around the Columbus Region will be required.
• The Columbus Partnership is an in-person work environment based in Downtown Columbus.
• Work hours are generally 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. or 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., but in this role you must be available at all times consistent with client expectations and project deadlines.
• Must be available to work occasional off-hours; events and meetings will involve some early mornings, evenings and weekends for client meetings, client entertainment, or to otherwise meet client expectations and project deadlines.
• May be required to work more than 8 hours during a workday as deadlines demand.

We Offer

• A front-row leadership seat impacting our community's future.
• Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off, parental leave and holidays.
• A 401(k) plan with an exceptional employer contribution.
• Professional development support.
• A modern downtown office with free parking.
• A high-impact, mission-driven team that's doing big things for the Columbus Region.

To Apply
Send your resume and a short note of interest to [email protected] with the subject line: Existing Industry Manager

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The Columbus Partnership is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, disability, military status, sexual orientation, or genetic information. The Columbus Partnership requires all employees, vendors, and associates to support its nondiscriminatory policies.

The Columbus Partnership is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, The Columbus Partnership will take steps to ensure that people with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation. Accordingly, if reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and / or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact [email protected].

Position Summary & Responsibilities

Position Summary:

The Director of International Business Development serves as the executive leader for the State of Kansas' international business development strategy, advancing foreign direct investment, export growth, and global economic competitiveness. Provides leadership and oversight of the International Division, develops strategic partnerships with global stakeholders, and advises executive leadership on international economic development initiatives. Represents the State in high-level international engagements, trade missions, and global industry events to attract investment, expand trade opportunities, and drive economic growth and job creation for Kansas.

Job Responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:

Serves as the executive leader responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the State of Kansas' global business development strategy focused on foreign direct investment attraction, international trade expansion, export growth, and global economic competitiveness.

Develops and maintains high-level relationships with foreign governments, multinational corporations, site selection consultants, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, trade associations, and international partners to advance Kansas' position in the global economy.

Represents the State of Kansas with international delegations, foreign dignitaries, business executives, and strategic partners. Leads efforts to identify, cultivate, and convert international business opportunities into economic growth, capital investment, and job creation for Kansas.

Directs the planning, strategy, and execution of international business development initiatives, including Governor and Lt. Governor-led and executive-level trade missions, foreign investment recruitment missions, global industry events, and targeted market engagement strategies.

Oversees Kansas' presence at internationally significant events including the Farnborough International Airshow, Paris Air Show, SelectUSA Investment Summit, and other priority industry platforms aligned with Kansas' targeted sectors. Leads recruitment and engagement of Kansas companies participating in international trade opportunities and develops.

Serves as a senior advisor to the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Governor's Office, and Administration on matters related to international economic development, foreign direct investment, trade policy, global market trends, and geopolitical issues impacting Kansas businesses.

This is an exciting opportunity to serve as the City of Heath's first Economic Development Director. This position plays a crucial role in shaping Heath's long-term prosperity by guiding transformative initiatives like the Towne Center Overlay District and The Reserve, where over 44 acres are owned by the Heath Economic Development and Municipal Benefits Corporations. Together, these projects will establish a vibrant commercial heart for the community-bringing high-quality retail, dining, professional services, and community spaces closer to home while strengthening the city's financial foundation. Through strategic planning, relationship-building, and a clear vision for balanced growth, the Director ensures these developments not only enhance daily life for residents but also preserve the character that makes Heath special.

Essential Job Functions & Other Important Duties 

Strategic Planning & Leadership

Develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Plan tailored to Heath's growth patterns, infrastructure capacity, and community expectations.

Identify and pursue opportunities for high-value commercial, retail, professional office, and mixed-use development that align with the city's long-term vision.

Provide professional economic insight and recommendations to the HEDC/HMBC, City Manager, and the governing body of the City.

Business Recruitment, Retention & Expansion

Lead proactive efforts to recruit new businesses that complement Heath's market profile and meet community needs.

Create and manage a business retention and expansion (BRE) program to support existing local businesses.

Develop marketing materials, prospect packages, and presentations for use with developers and business prospects.

Development Facilitation & Project Management

Manage relationships with commercial developers, site selectors, brokers, and investors.

Guide prospects through city processes, serving as a point of contact during zoning, permitting, and development review.

Evaluate proposed projects for economic impact, feasibility, and alignment with the community's expectations.

Incentive & Policy Administration
Develop, negotiate, and manage economic development agreements, incentive packages, and public-private partnerships, ensuring compliance with state laws and local guidelines.

Prepare economic impact analyses, cost-benefit calculations, and performance reports.

Community & Regional Engagement

Serve as the city's liaison to regional and state economic development organizations.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Direct experience with mixed-use / town center development.
Proven background and understanding of commercial real estate development.
Strong understanding of municipal economic development tools, Texas incentive laws, and development processes.
Experience in negotiating developer agreements in a manner that achieves the project vision.
Strong understanding of development agreements and public-private partnerships.
Experience working directly with master developers, evaluating pro formas, finding mechanisms, and structuring complex projects.
Proven ability to build strategic partnerships and work effectively with elected officials.
Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to manage complex projects, multiple priorities, and sensitive political environments.
Strategic thinker with the ability to balance economic growth with quality-of-life considerations.

Acceptable Experience and Training

A bachelor's degree in Economic Development, Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, or a related field from an accredited institution is required. Additionally, a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in Economic Development or a related field is necessary. Preferred qualifications include 3 to 5 years of experience in real estate.

Certifications and Licenses Required: 

Valid Texas driver's license.
CEcD (Certified Economic Developer) or PCED (Professional Community & Economic Developer) preferred.
Ability to obtain certification within a specified timeframe may be considered.

Chief of Strategic Workforce Partnerships

Requisition ID: 2026-10607

# of Openings:
1

Location: US-UT-Logan

Category:
Other

Position Type:
Benefited Full-Time

Job Classification:
Exempt

College:
President

Department:
Administration - President

Advertised Salary:
Commensurate with experience plus excellent benefits.

Overview
The Chief of Strategic Workforce Partnerships serves as the university's chief strategist for external engagement, workforce development, innovation partnerships, and career pathways. Reporting directly to the President, the Chief of Strategic Workforce Partnerships and develops and strengthens strategic partnerships with industry, employers, workforce organizations, and economic development partners to advance student success, accelerate innovation, and drive economic growth for the state.

The position provides executive leadership for the Career Design Center and leads a coordinated, university-wide strategy to expand internships, apprenticeships, experiential learning, and employment opportunities for students. Working collaboratively across academic affairs, student success, research, extension, government relations, advancement, and statewide campuses, the Chief of Strategic Workforce Partnerships strengthens partnerships with employers, industry, and workforce organizations to connect the university's students, talent, research, and expertise with the needs of Utah's workforce while ensuring every student has access to meaningful career-connected learning and employment opportunities before graduation.

Responsibilities
- Serve as the university's primary cabinet level liaison with employers, industry associations, chambers of commerce, and workforce organizations.
- Lead the development of innovative employer-sponsored education models that connect students with paid employment, tuition assistance, internships, apprenticeships, and career pathways while helping employers meet current and future workforce needs.
- Build strategic partnerships that expand internships, apprenticeships, co-ops, clinical placements, and employment opportunities for students and graduates.
- Supervise the USU Career Design Center.
- Provide strategic leadership for a university-wide network of career services leaders to align institutional priorities, coordinate employer engagement, and enhance the delivery of career development services while respecting the unique needs of academic disciplines.
- Monitor workforce, labor market, and industry trends and advise university leadership on emerging workforce needs and opportunities.
- Partner with academic leadership to align academic programs, credentials, and experiential learning opportunities with workforce demand.
- Develop strategic partnerships that connect employers with the university's talent, research, innovation, workforce development, and outreach capabilities.
- Develop initiatives that ensure every student has access to meaningful career exploration,
professional development, and work-based learning opportunities prior to graduation.
- Foster collaboration among industry advisory councils and employer partners to identify opportunities, share best practices, and strengthen workforce engagement across the university.
- Collaborate with Advancement and Alumni Relations to engage alumni and industry leaders in mentoring, recruiting, and career development initiatives.
- Represent the university in statewide workforce, economic development, and industry partnership initiatives.
- Develop metrics and accountability measures related to employer engagement, student employment outcomes, internships, and workforce partnerships.
- Develop and implement a university-wide employer and industry engagement strategy that coordinates partnerships across colleges, statewide campuses, Extension, research, innovation, and administrative units, reducing duplication and providing a coordinated experience for external partners.
- Advance the university's land-grant mission by strengthening connections between education, workforce development, industry, and communities across Utah.
- Establish a university-wide innovation governance framework, including advisory and
venture boards that bring external perspectives into institutional decision-making, and build a corporate partner ecosystem across the university.
- Lead university-industry innovation hub development, connecting students, faculty,
researchers, and companies around shared challenges and opportunities.
- Advise technology transfer and commercialization functions, ensuring university discoveries reach the marketplace efficiently and generate sustained reinvestment in institutional priorities.
- Position the university as a regional and national anchor for innovation-led economic development, attracting investment, talent, and high-growth companies.
- Advance an entrepreneurial culture across all levels of the institution - students, faculty, staff, and administration - through programming, incentives, maker spaces, accelerators, and communities of practice.
- Lead institution-wide innovation initiatives that optimize operational resources, eliminate
structural inefficiencies, and improve organizational agility across administrative and academic units.

Goals:
- Every student who wants an internship and/or work experience can obtain one.
- Every graduate receives career coaching before graduation.
- Every college has strategic employer partners.
- Every region served by USU has a network of employers engaged with the university.
- USU becomes the preferred talent pipeline for Utah employers.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
- Master's degree and thirteen (13) years of related work experience, including nine (9) years of leadership experience OR an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- Proven executive leadership experience driving innovation and transformation in a complex, multi-stakeholder institution (higher education, government, or large enterprise).
- Deep understanding of the evolving role of higher education and of the role of research institutions in the higher education ecosystem.
- Track record of building cross-functional coalitions and leading culture change.
- Exceptional external relationship-building skills with corporate, civic, government, and philanthropic leaders.
- Experience with enterprise nonprofit governance, diversified revenue models, and/or economic development strategy.
- Proven success structuring and closing complex, high-value partnerships.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing materials for executive leaders, governing boards, or public audiences.
- Experience using data and evidence to inform strategic decisions.
- Commitment to collaboration, transparency, and shared governance within higher education.

Required Documents
Along with the online application, please attach:
- Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under "Resume/CV"
- Cover letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application
**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Advertised Salary
Commensurate with experience plus excellent benefits.

ADA
General Office Work:
Employees work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes. The employee is regularly required to sit and often uses repetitive hand motions.

College/Department Highlights

University Highlights
Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah's premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at https://statewide.usu.edu/locations/ Utah State's 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.

Competing at the NCAA Division I level in 16 sports, USU is a proud member of the Pac-12 Conference, officially joining on July 1, 2026. The Aggies capped a historic final season in the Mountain West by capturing nine combined regular-season and tournament titles in 2025-26, with five teams advancing to postseason play. This tradition of excellence extends to the classroom, where 232 student-athletes earned academic honors, and to the community, where USU ranked second nationally in Division I service hours, with nine teams placing in the top 10 for community service.

Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported and where diversity of thought and culture are cultivated. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named mailto:https://www.usu.edu/today/story/usu-named-best-employer-in-utah in 2023. https://www.usu.edu/about/ about USU.

The university provides a https://www.usu.edu/policies/3300/ to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university's ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or [email protected].
*updated 07/2026

To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/9755498

Notice of Non-discrimination

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU's non-discrimination policies:

Executive Director of the Office of Equity Matthew Pinner, [email protected], Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266

Title IX Coordinator Matthew Pinner, [email protected], Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266

Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, Ut 84322

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit https://equity.usu.edu/, or contact:
U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800-421-3481, [email protected]
U.S. Department of Education, Denver Regional Office, 303-844-5695, [email protected]
je-2bbcf27978ac45f69354d8fcd96cf59c

Chief Executive Officer
St. Landry Parish Economic and Industrial Development District (SLED)
Lead the Next Chapter of Economic Growth in One of Louisiana's Most Promising Parishes

 About St. Landry Parish
Nestled in the heart of South Louisiana, St. Landry Parish (County) offers a rare combination of strategic location, rich cultural heritage, affordable quality of life, and untapped economic opportunity. Positioned along the I-49 corridor with convenient access to Interstate 10, the parish serves as a gateway connecting Louisiana's major metropolitanmarkets while maintaining the authenticity and charm for which Acadiana is known.
Home to nearly 80,000 residents, St. Landry Parish boasts a diverse economy built upon manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.The parish is home to Opelousas—Louisiana's third-oldest city—as well as a collection of vibrant municipalities and rural communities that together offer tremendous opportunities for redevelopment, business investment, workforce advancement, and quality-of-place improvements.

With significant available industrial assets, development-ready properties, transportation infrastructure, and a collaborative network of public and private partners, St. Landry Parish is well positioned for transformational economic growth. The community is committed to creating jobs, supporting entrepreneurs, revitalizing commercial corridors, and building a prosperous future for generations to come.

This is an opportunity to help shape that future.

Why St. Landry. Why Now. A Rare Opportunity to Shape the Future of One of Louisiana's Most Promising Communities
Economic development professionals are drawn to communities where they can make a meaningful impact. St. Landry Parish offers precisely that opportunity.

Located in the heart of South Louisiana, St. Landry Parish is the northern gateway to the Acadiana Region—one of Louisiana's most dynamic and fastest-growing economies. While the region has long been recognized for its entrepreneurial spirit and cultural richness, it is now experiencing a new era of economic diversification fueled by advanced manufacturing, healthcare, technology, aviation and aerospace, logistics, agriculture, and energy innovation.

St. Landry Parish offers a rare combination of strategic location, authentic culture, affordable quality of life, and significant economic opportunity. Positioned along the Interstate 49 corridor with convenient access to Interstate 10, the parish serves as a gateway connecting Louisiana's major metropolitan markets while maintaining the rich heritage and welcoming character that define Acadiana. 

As the northern gateway to Acadiana, St. Landry Parish is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this regional momentum. Businesses locating in the parish enjoy access to the region's growing workforce, higher education institutions, transportation infrastructure, entrepreneurial ecosystem, and collaborative network of public and private partners. At the same time, the parish offers abundant opportunities for industrial development,
downtown revitalization, site redevelopment, and quality-of-life investments that position it for sustained long-term growth.

Home to Opelousas—Louisiana's third-oldest city—and a collection of vibrant municipalities and rural communities, St. Landry Parish combines deep cultural roots with a forward-looking vision for economic prosperity. Its diverse economy is supported by strengths in manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, healthcare, logistics, tourism, and small business development, while its available industrial assets and development-ready
properties create exciting opportunities for future investment.

Unlike many mature economic development organizations, St. Landry presents something increasingly rare: the opportunity to build. The next Chief Executive Officer will inherit an organization with a solid foundation while helping define the next generation of economic success for an entire parish. From recruiting new employers and supporting existing industries to revitalizing downtowns, strengthening workforce initiatives, advancing site development, and cultivating entrepreneurship, the opportunities to make a lasting impact are significant.

This is more than a leadership position—it is an opportunity to shape the future of a community with tremendous, untapped potential while leveraging the strength and momentum of one of Louisiana's most vibrant regional economies.

Today, St. Landry Parish stands at an important moment in its history. With strong regional partnerships, expanding infrastructure, available sites, and a shared commitment to economic growth, the parish is well positioned to become one of Louisiana's leading destinations for business investment and community development. The next Chief Executive Officer of St. Landry Economic Development will have the unique opportunity to help shape that future while leveraging the momentum of one of the state's most promising regions.

About the Opportunity
St. Landry Economic Development is seeking a visionary, collaborative, and resultsoriented executive to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer. 

This is more than a traditional economic development position—it is an opportunity to lead the economic future of an entire parish. 

The CEO serves as the chief economic development ambassador for St. Landry Parish, working alongside business leaders, elected officials, site selectors, regional partners, and community stakeholders to drive transformational growth. The successful candidate will be responsible for translating strategic vision into measurable results while building strong relationships throughout Louisiana and across the nation.

The ideal candidate will bring the ability to think strategically while executing effectively—someone equally comfortable recruiting major employers, developing public-private
partnerships, speaking before civic organizations, advocating for economic development policy, mentoring staff, and guiding complex organizational initiatives.

This individual will inherit an organization with a strong foundation and have the opportunity to elevate its regional and national profile while helping position St. Landry Parish as one of Louisiana's premier locations for business investment.

About SLED
• Total Budget: $750,000.00
• Administrative oversight over SLED, Opelousas Downtown Development District (1-cent TIF District), Central St. Landry Economic Development District (1-cent TIF District), and Vision St. Landry (a public-private partnership advisory board)
• 4 Direct Reports:
        o 1 Operations manager
        o 1 CSLEDD Project Manager
        o 1 ODDD Project Manager
        o 1 Administrative Specialist
• Visit OpportunityStLandry.com to learn more about SLED.

Key Responsibilities
The Chief Executive Officer will:
• Lead the development and execution of SLED's comprehensive economic development strategy.
• Serve as the chief spokesperson and economic development representative for St. Landry Parish.
• Recruit new business investment while supporting the growth and expansion of existing employers.
• Foster strong relationships with municipal, parish, regional, state, and private-sector partners.
• Guide workforce development, entrepreneurship, redevelopment, and community development initiatives.
• Develop and implement innovative strategies that diversify and strengthen the local economy.
• Work closely with multiple governing boards to establish priorities, execute strategic initiatives, and ensure organizational accountability.
• Represent SLED before public bodies, business organizations, industry leaders, and economic development partners throughout Louisiana and beyond.
• Champion policies and initiatives that enhance the competitiveness of St. Landry Parish and improve its business climate.
• In close collaboration with SLED’s Operations Director, oversee organizational operations, financial management, budgeting, and staff leadership.

The Ideal Candidate
SLED seeks a leader who combines strategic vision with exceptional execution.

Successful candidates will possess:
• A passion for economic and community development
• Exceptional relationship-building and consensus-building abilities
• Proven executive leadership experience
• Outstanding communication and public speaking skills
• Experience working with boards, elected officials, and public-private partnerships
• Strong business development and project management capabilities
• Financial and organizational management expertise
• An entrepreneurial mindset focused on innovation and measurable results

Candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in a related field and a minimum of five years of economic development organizational leadership experience at the executive, director, or senior management level. A master's degree and professional economic development certifications (CEcD, EDFP, LEAD Master Practitioner or CLED, OU EDI completion, or similar) are highly desirable.

Why This Position?
Opportunities like this are rare.

St. Landry Parish stands at an exciting point in its history. With strong regional partnerships, significant redevelopment opportunities, available industrial assets, growing entrepreneurial activity, and a community committed to progress, the next CEO will have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

For an accomplished economic development professional seeking the opportunity to shape a community, influence regional growth, and lead a respected organization, this position offers the chance to make a meaningful and lasting impact.

Compensation and Benefits
Base Salary: $125,000 minimum, with higher compensation considered based on experience and qualifications. SLED offers a competitive benefits package including health insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave, and other employee benefits.

How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a letter of interest and a current resume to [email protected].

In the letter of interest, please describe why you are interested in this opportunity; the experiences you believe best prepare you for this role; and your vision for advancing economic development in St. Landry Parish.
Local Residency: Because this position is deeply connected to the communities we serve, preference will be given to candidates who reside in St. Landry Parish or the greater Acadiana region, or who are willing to relocate to the area within six months of their start date.

Additional Information - St. Landry Parish By the Numbers
• Population
     o 81,174
• Workforce
     o 33,613
• Median age
     o 40.6
• Labor shed
     o 157,000+ workers within a 45-minute drive. This labor shed includes portions of Evangeline Parish, Acadia Parish, Lafayette Parish, St. Martin Parish, Avoyelles Parish, Rapides Parish and Pointe Coupee Parish.
• Major employers
     o Opelousas General Health System (1,180 Employees)
     o Wal-Mart Supercenter(s) (694)
     o Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino (643)
     o Wal-Mart Distribution Center (579)
     o Precision Drilling (400)
     o Waveland Corporation (350)
     o Ventura Foods (200)
     o Acadian Medical Center (200)
     o Delek (200)
     o Sunland Construction (170)
• Regional GDP
     o $3.18 Million
• Interstate access
     o Interstate 49 runs through the parish with convenient access to Interstate 10 via Lafayette, connecting north-south and east-west freight corridors
• Rail
    o Union Pacific Railroad freight service with regional connections to the national rail network
• Airports
     o St. Landry Parish Airport (Opelousas) for general aviation; Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) (~35 miles); Alexandria International Airport (AEX) (~60 miles); Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) (~70 miles)
• Ports
     o The Port of Krotz Springs is a regional inland port located on the Atchafalaya River, allowing companies to move product by barge, rail or truck, serving as an important asset for bulk cargo, industrial development,              and manufacturing. The Port has over 130 acres of developed waterfront property, approximately 20,000 square feet of warehouse space, and over 200 additional acres available for future industrial development.            Annual cargo throughput is approximately 3 million tons.

Higher Education, Skilled Trades Offerings
Louisiana State University Eunice (LSUE) (Eunice, LA)
• Overview: A comprehensive, two-year public college operating under the LSU System.
• Offerings: Associate degrees, transfer pathways to four-year universities (especially LSU System), health science programs (Nursing, Radiologic Technology, Respiratory Care, Surgical Technology, Diagnostic Medical Stenography), certificate programs, and workforce development courses.

South Louisiana Community College (SoLAcc) – T.H. Harris Campus (Opelousas, LA)
• Overview: SoLAcc’s primary footprint in St. Landry Parish, featuring both its main T.H. Harris campus and an extension campus along the I-49 service road.
• SoLAcc Offerings: Career and technical certifications, associate degrees, Practical Nursing (LPN) and healthcare programs, trade/industrial training (Welding, Electrician, Commercial Truck Driving), and specialized technical programs like Nondestructive Testing (NDT).

K-12 Education Options
• 6 public high schools, 5 middle and junior high schools, and 12 elementary schools
• Magnet & Specialized Academies
        o Magnet Academy for Cultural Arts (MACA)
        o Helix AI & Medical Academy (Opelousas)
        o JS Clark Leadership Academy
        o École St. Landry (Sunset – French Immersion Charter)
        o Washington Career & Technical Center
• Private & Parochial Schools
        o Academy of the Sacred Heart (Grand Coteau – All-Girls, PK–12)
        o Berchmans Academy of the Sacred Heart (Grand Coteau – All-Boys, PK–12)
        o Family Worship Christian Academy
        o Opelousas Catholic School (Opelousas – Co-ed, PK–12)
        o St. Edmund Catholic School (Eunice – Co-ed, PK–12)
        o St. Ignatius Elementary School
        o Westminster Christian Academy

Community Assets
• Historic Opelousas
• Deeply rooted, homegrown business base
• Downtown redevelopment
• Affordable cost of living
• Strong educational partners
• Cultural heritage
• Outdoor recreation

How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a letter of interest and a current resume to [email protected].

In the letter of interest, please describe why you are interested in this opportunity; the experiences you believe best prepare you for this role; and your vision for advancing economic development in St. Landry Parish.

Full consideration will be given to applications submitted by October 15, 2026, 11:59 PM CST.