Under direction, interfaces and develops relationships with retail and service-based businesses; assists in attraction of regional retail development; develops relationships with local developers and real estate brokers; and promotes Thornton as a desirable location to attract local and regional consumers.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.)
Works with the local retail development community, which includes one-on-one meetings, networking, group and special events, e-newsletters and other means as dictated.
Studies the dynamics of Thornton's retail market and the surrounding areas from both a recruitment and retention perspective to assist in developing strategies to strengthen and grow Thornton's retail base. Dynamics will include learning about retailing criteria, trade area analysis, new development and redevelopment, shopping center promotion, and interaction with retailers and retail developers.
Attends Annual ICSC Retail Conference to interface with local, regional and national retail representatives in face-to-face meetings.
Analyzes retail store performance in Thornton to determine the level of risk and opportunity for various national chains and regional retailers.
Maintains a working relationship with the property managers of shopping centers in Thornton.
Interacts with retail and service companies, public leaders and peers.
Acts as a key contact for large retail to ensure broad awareness of business assistance services.
Participates in the Thornton Business Appreciation event, including program development, solicitation of nominations for local businesses, event logistics, etc. as needed.
Participates in the creation of Thornton's local business and regional retail marketing collateral, including information packets, and community and regional profiles.
Generates story ideas and writes/edits articles for the website, e-newsletters, publications and economic development marketing/communications materials.
Responsible for some website content.
Assists in the production of PowerPoint presentations and proposals for the Economic Development Department.
Participates in trade associations and events, including meetings, conferences, and trade shows such as DCI, International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), and Rocky Mountain Shopping Center Association.
Learns about other operations of the department and contributes, where needed, to other initiatives and efforts of the Department.
Learns about operations of the city in order to be more knowledgeable about issues of concern to the development community.
Assists with the Department's social media efforts by updating existing media channels and integrating outreach with ongoing marketing activities.
May be required to travel and/or work outside of business hours to attend industry-related meetings, events, business functions, and educational and community programs when necessary.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Experience:
Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or related fields from an accredited college or university. Five years' experience in small business support and/or retail development. Demonstrated experience in economic/business development is preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Licensing/Certification Requirements:
May need the ability to travel to various locations in a timely manner as the job requires.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of the policies, procedures and goals of the City of Thornton and the department.
Knowledge of the city of Thornton Municipal Code related to development.
Knowledge of principles and practices of local government administration.
Knowledge of the general practices, programs and initiatives in the field of economic development.
Skill in researching, developing, writing, editing, and maintaining marketing collateral.
Ability to maintain confidentiality on inquiries and development projects.
Ability to work successfully in a team-oriented atmosphere that provides businesses, citizens and employees with accurate information and excellent customer service.
Ability to use standard office equipment, computer equipment and software including word processing, presentation, data base management, spreadsheet applications, computerized geographic information systems (GIS) and electronic mail.
Ability to use specialized equipment used in economic development including digital cameras, and calculators.
Ability to listen well and communicate effectively orally and in writing with various audiences.
Ability to research, develop and lead formal and informal presentations and discussions with diverse groups.
Ability to regularly exercise significant discretion and independent judgment.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city employees, city boards and commissions, other agencies, and the public.
Ability to be highly detail-oriented and able to proof own work with a high level of accuracy.
Ability to handle multiple work assignments and meet deadlines.
Physical and Mental Requirements:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, stand, sit, talk, hear, see, and demonstrate manual dexterity. The employee is also required to perform light lifting.
TESTING PROCEDURES
Examinations may include but are not limited to application screening beyond minimum qualifications; written, oral, practical exercise or any combination thereof or other job related assessment deemed appropriate by Human Resources.
Your application will be used as a screening tool. Completeness and accuracy are important! Any false or untrue statements or material omissions in the application and related paperwork or during the selection process could disqualify you from consideration.
As a condition of employment, the city of Thornton conducts background investigations for all positions which may also include a review of credit report and/or driving record. A drug screen, physical, and/or psychological examination administered by a city-designated provider will be required for pre-determined positions.