Director of Economic Development - #134799

Director of Economic Development, Office of the Chancellor

Director of Economic Development (Public Service Professional 2 – MR15)

Office of the Chancellor

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

The Director of Economic Development will serve as a primary liaison between University and community stakeholders, working closely with campus units such as the Provost’s Office, the Vice Chancellor for Research, the UTC Research Institute, College Deans, academic program directors, the Center for Professional Education, career centers, the Chief Strategy Officer, and the Advancement office as well as off-campus entities such as local and state government, the Chamber of Commerce and other economic development organizations, industry partners, trade associations, and economic development prospects. The Director will also work closely with the University of Tennessee’s Assistant Vice President for Research, Outreach and Economic Development, and other colleagues within the UT system.

Primary Responsibilities:

The role is expected to ensure that UTC’s faculty, staff, students, and other resources are engaged appropriately (in lead or support roles) in the region’s economic development activity.

The Director is charged with establishing and maintaining relationships with such stakeholders and facilitating the University’s engagement with economic development activity in the region. This activity may include prospect visits, the development and delivery of presentations, proposals, and assessments. The Director will serve in the Chancellor’s Office, reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, but will be expected to maintain strong connections with many other units.

This full-time, non-tenure track staff position is based on-campus in Chattanooga. Moderate travel, weekend, and evening work will be required.

Review of applications will begin September 25, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. Applications received by this date will receive priority consideration.

Minimum Qualifications:

A bachelor's degree is required, as well as at least 5 years of experience in economic development, industry or community relations, workforce development, public policy, sales, or related fields. Strong written and oral communications skills are essential, as well as the ability to think and act strategically and to manage projects with minimal supervision. Strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and to influence and lead people without direct authority are also crucial. An understanding of the basic dynamics and principles of economic development are also important.

The University of Tennessee Chattanooga is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or protected veteran status.