City of Covington, KY
Economic Development Director

COVINGTON, Kentucky (population 43,070), situated among the rolling hills and bluffs adjacent to the Ohio River, is a diverse community experiencing a renaissance of its riverfront, downtown, and distinctive neighborhoods. Covington seeks an experienced, dynamic, service-oriented economic development professional to join the City’s executive management team. Located in the heart of the greater Cincinnati metropolitan area, Covington has a balanced mix of retailers, restaurants, office buildings, businesses and manufacturing facilities. Covington is the home of two Fortune 500 companies: Ashland Oil and Omnicare. The two largest employers are Fidelity Investments with approximately 4,000 employees, and the Internal Revenue Service, with some 4,800 employees in downtown Covington. The Economic Development and Community Relations Director is responsible for planning, organizing and directing development activities, and implementing economic development plans, programs and services for the City. The Director supervises the activities of six employees, including the Historic Preservation Manager, Small Business & Retention Manager, Renaissance Manager, Arts District Manager, and the community relations Ombudsman. Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in planning, business or public administration, urban development or related field; Master’s Degree is preferred. Candidates must also have at least seven years experience with demonstrated success in economic development and the recruitment/retention of businesses, outstanding interpersonal skills, well-developed oral and writing abilities, and a strong desire to aggressively pursue the economic development goals of the City. Director reports to the City Manager and is appointed by the City Commission upon the City Manager’s recommendation. Starting salary: $75,000 to $85,000 DOQ. Apply by March 21, 2008 with résumé, cover letter, five work-related references and salary history.