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KCED Economic Development Manager- Willmar Focus

Posted: 09/20/2026

 

Position Announcement: Economic Development Manager 

Employer: Kandiyohi County Economic Development 
Established in 2003 through a joint powers agreement between Kandiyohi County and the City of Willmar, KCED promotes regional economic growth and industry development. 

Location: 
AppleTree Square, Suite 3 
1601 U.S. Highway 12 E 
Willmar, MN 56201 

Salary: $75,000 
Flexible schedule to fit meeting attendance requirements 
Open until filled 

Apply: Submit resume, cover letter, and 3–4 references to hiring@kandiyohi.com 

 

Position Overview 

The Economic Development Manager supports business retention, expansion, and recruitment across Kandiyohi County. This role works closely with the Executive Director, local partners, and committees to advance economic development initiatives and support entrepreneurs.  This role requires travel. 

 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Conduct economic analysis, market research, and track key regional indicators  

  • Support infrastructure development, grant writing, and budget management  

  • Lead business outreach, retention, and recruitment efforts  

  • Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract investment  

  • Collaborate with state/federal agencies and regional partners  

  • Organize community forums, workshops, and stakeholder engagement events  

  • Assist entrepreneurs with financial readiness, business planning, and resource connections  

  • Manage programs, events, and continuous process improvements  

  • Work collaborative with the team 

 

Core Duties 

  • Serve as a primary contact for businesses seeking expansion or startup support  

  • Conduct industry outreach and promote available sites, incentives, and financing tools  

  • Update and implement economic development strategies  

  • Support workforce, housing, childcare, business, and initiatives  

  • Coordinate training workshops and provide technical assistance to small businesses  

 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Urban Planning, or related field 
    OR  

  • 2+ years of experience supporting small businesses (finance/banking experience preferred)  

Benefits 

  • PERA and IRA retirement options 

  • Health Insurance and vision options- BCBS 

  • Paid Holidays 

  • PTO 

  • Paid Professional Development 

  • Flexible schedule 

 

 

 

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