Economic Development & Main Street Centerville Director

Reports to: PACT Executive Director

Employment Type: Full-Time (40+ hours/week, structured hours 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM with flexibility for meetings, events, and special projects)

Position Overview:

This full-time role combines economic development leadership with the management of the Main Street Centerville program. The individual in this role will lead business retention, expansion, and recruitment efforts while securing resources and funding to support downtown revitalization. This position requires a highly organized, strategic thinker with strong networking and communication skills to advocate for businesses and property owners.

Key Responsibilities:

Economic Development Focus:

• Revolving Loan Fund Management:

◦ Identify and assist eligible applicants.

◦ Guide businesses through the application process.

◦ Develop amortization schedules and coordinate Loan Committee meetings.

◦ Maintain records, prepare PACT Board resolutions, and oversee loan closings.

◦ Ensure compliance with federal reporting and explore opportunities for fund growth.

◦ Manage UCC filings, lien recordings, and address default/foreclosure processes if necessary.

• Business & Industry Support:

◦ Serve as the primary liaison with the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA).

◦ Assist businesses in navigating incentive programs, including the High-Quality Jobs Program.

◦ Communicate funding and cost-saving opportunities to local businesses (grants, tax incentives, energy efficiency programs).

◦ Represent Centerville/Appanoose County at Iowa South meetings and collaborate with regional economic developers.

◦ Organize the annual Educators in the Workplace event in partnership with Indian Hills Community College.

◦ Proactively seek and share resources that benefit local businesses.

Main Street Centerville Executive Director Focus:

• Program Leadership & Strategic Planning:

◦ Oversee the Main Street Centerville Program in alignment with Main Street Iowa and Main Street America.

◦ Serve as a visible and engaged advocate for downtown revitalization efforts.

◦ Ensure compliance with state and national Main Street accreditation requirements.

◦ Supervise the Part-Time Main Street Events & Promotions Specialist.

• Grant Writing & Fund Development:

◦ Research, write, and secure grants for downtown improvement projects and business support initiatives.

◦ Administer and promote Challenge Grants, Catalyst Grants, and Facade Improvement Programs.

• Business & Property Owner Support:

◦ Act as a resource for property owners considering renovations or redevelopment.

◦ Provide guidance on available financial tools and incentives.

◦ Foster relationships with developers and business owners to enhance the commercial landscape.

• Community Engagement & Public Awareness:

◦ Work closely with Main Street committees (Promotion, Economic Vitality, Design, and Organization) on key initiatives.

◦ Develop public awareness campaigns that highlight downtown’s value and opportunities.

◦ Attend regional, state, and national conferences and training sessions related to Main Street and economic development.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Strong grant writing and fundraising abilities.

• Proven experience in economic development, business support, or downtown revitalization.

• Excellent public speaking, networking, and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.

• Working knowledge of community development programs, Main Street principles, and historic preservation (or willingness to learn).

• Proficiency in Google Suite, Canva, and/or Adobe products is a plus.