KCED Economic Development Manager- Willmar Focus
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