Open Positions

Director of Business Services

Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) is seeking a Director of Business Services to lead initiatives and a small team to retain, grow, and attract new jobs and investment to Ithaca and Tompkins County, New York. This is an excellent opportunity to oversee IAED’s Business Services and Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), administer the Tompkins County Industrial Development Agency (TCIDA) and Development Corporation (TCDC), and supervise a team member. This position is responsible for ensuring the Business Services team fosters relationships with businesses, entrepreneurs and partners through a robust Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) program and targeted attraction efforts, which may include delivering technical, financial and location assistance and by aligning regional, state and federal resources.

IAED is a private non-profit economic development organization serving Ithaca and Tompkins County. It is New York State’s premier Accredited Economic Development Organization; one of only 75 across North America. Since 1964, IAED has delivered customized services to create a supportive business environment that attracts, grows, and retains businesses that provide high-quality employment. IAED provides direct services to businesses, engages in strategic partnerships across key sectors, coordinates initiatives that improve the local economy, and serves as administrative agent for the TCIDA/TCDC.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Deliver customized business services with aid of a direct report and others, including:
    • Conduct a robust BRE program: identify and systematically consult with traded sector businesses and entrepreneurs to understand client needs; maintain an inventory of local, regional, and state data and incentives; cultivate relationships with referral partners and service providers; and provide location/technical assistance as needed
    • Support business attraction by identifying and executing a schedule of outreach activities to promote Tompkins County to targeted outside firms and key influencers, as needed
    • Shape and utilize a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system
  • Serve as Administrative Director of the TCIDA/TCDC
  • Manage the RLF program targeting traded sector businesses: advise prospective applicants; perform underwriting functions; coordinate IAED’s Loan Committee meetings; and conduct performance reporting

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, mission-driven and creative, capable of establishing and maintaining productive relationships with business leaders, partners, and elected officials. Experience with economic development best practices and/or business financing and lending instruments is essential. Familiarity with equity and mezzanine debt and grant administration is desirable. Other qualifications include at least five (5) years of progressively responsible professional practice in economic development, business administration, finance, community or real estate development, or equivalent.

IAED offers a close-knit work environment, competitive compensation, and a generous benefits package that includes health and dental insurance, a retirement plan with employer contribution, and professional development opportunities. IAED is an EOE; candidates with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. IAED maintains a 35-hour work week with occasional morning and evening meetings and some flexibility to work remotely. Travel to meet with businesses and other clients, primarily within Tompkins County, is required. Salary range is $90,000-105,000 DOE. Position will remain open until filled.

Candidates should submit a cover letter and resume with contact information addressed to Kurt Anderson, Director of Operations, Ithaca Area Economic Development at kurta@IthacaAreaED.org.