Economic Development Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY Naturally Lewis, the lead economic development agency for Lewis County, seeks a highly skilled, self-motivated Economic Development Specialist who will be an integral part of the economic development team, focusing on making Lewis County a great place to live, work, build business & play. The position involves responsibility for assisting in the planning, initiation, implementation and administration of programs and strategy of Naturally Lewis and economic development in Lewis County. The Economic Development Specialist will work closely with the Naturally Lewis team by facilitating collaboration, identifying, developing and prioritizing projects, engaging in the marketing and communication of the Naturally Lewis brands and programs, and work with partner organizations to facilitate goals and priorities of Naturally Lewis.

ESSENTIAL POSITION DUTIES Additional duties may be assigned & existing responsibilities may change as deemed appropriate. Work as a key member of the economic development team to support team members and team goals in making Lewis County a great place to live, work, build business and play. Activities include, but are not limited to:

MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS, & PUBLIC RELATIONS

Works closely with the Naturally Lewis team to create relationships with the business and entrepreneurial community of Lewis County to assess business needs to assist in the creation of programs and support services and to strengthen rapport, trust and communication o Maintain and manage the Naturally Lewis brand.

Crafts the Naturally Lewis marketing and communication plans for all economic development efforts including, but not limited to: success stories, incentive programs, loan program, site developments, news releases, business spotlights, programs and initiatives o Coordination and logistics of events and meetings.

Maintain a strong presence on social media platforms, marketing to targeted audiences.

Prepare communication materials, such as press releases, radio advertising and other traditional forms of media o Manage the Naturally Lewis website platforms.

Work with management on creation of annual marketing budgets for Naturally Lewis and oversee the implementation of marketing budgets o Works closely with various marketing consultants for new content creation, such as photographers and videographers, etc.

Some travel and weekend work required, including, but not limited to, economic development conferences, and tabling at local community events.

ADMINISTRATIVE AND ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORT

General customer and client service.

Support the Executive Director with all other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

To perform this job, an individual must be able to ensure agency performance of all duties outlined, as well as any other activities required to ensure Naturally Lewis is sustainable. The requirements below represent the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Associate’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or, an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience as defined above

• Must have a positive attitude, be an excellent team player, must maintain effective working relationships, have flexibility, and must have a desire to be a leader within Lewis County.

• Strong communication skills and comfortable speaking and addressing groups.

• Computer proficiency is required.

• Experience with social media management, website management, and/or Canva is desired.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Confidentiality is required.

• Attendance may be required for training, education, or seminars. • Frequent travel is required.

• Attendance of meetings and functions outside of normal business hours

HOURLY PAY & BENEFITS: $23-25/hour

SIMPLE IRA • Paid Time Off • Wellness Stipend • Cell Phone Stipend

Naturally Lewis is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All job applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status or any other protected class as required by law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person