Project Manager

To manage and coordinate all redevelopment activities in the North Sarasota area. To direct and participate in the activities of the Department of Neighborhoods and Development Services to establish goals and objectives for economic and community development and redevelopment in North Sarasota. To serve as principal Newtown redevelopment advisor to the Department Director, City Manager, Community Redevelopment Agency and the City Commission, to achieve the City’s goals and objectives. To also serve as an “ombudsman” and advocate for implementation of the Newtown Community Redevelopment Area Plan and redevelopment projects in North Sarasota to improve the overall quality of life for North Sarasota residents and facilitates smooth and timely completion of those projects. Responsibilities Oversees the creation and implementation of redevelopment plans proposed for the North Sarasota area. This includes the development of strategies to attract and retain businesses, and business investment, in accordance with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and all applicable code and regulations. Implements the Newtown Community Redevelopment Area Plan to accomplish the objectives outlined in that Plan for the North Sarasota area. Initiates projects to revitalize the North Sarasota area using Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds. Analyzes pertinent demographic, business, retail and marketing data to guide sound, rational decision making on economic development policies and programs. Coordinates development of a comprehensive site inventory and marketing plan to showcase existing and emerging economic development opportunities in the North Sarasota area of the City. Participates actively during formation of the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to accomplish the objectives detailed in the Newtown Community Redevelopment Area Plan. Coordinates resolution of North Sarasota parking and public transit issues. Oversees preparation of reports to the Community Redevelopment Agency and the Enterprise Zone on specific redevelopment proposals. Monitors economic conditions in North Sarasota area, prepares quarterly reports and makes oral presentations to the City Manager, City Commission, Community Redevelopment Agency, and others as necessary and appropriate. Works closely with development professionals, the business community, lenders, realtors and representatives from other diverse groups interested in the North Sarasota area. The intent of this class description is to provide a representative summary of the types of duties and responsibilities that would be required of classifications given this title and shall not be construed as a declaration of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Incumbent may be required to perform job‑related tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description. Qualifications Bachelor Degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in Business Administration, Planning, Public Administration, Finance or closely related field. Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience with at least five (5) years in an administrative or supervisory capacity in community development programs such as urban planning; economic development; urban revitalization and redevelopment; or the equivalent in education, training, and experience, which would provide the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities. A Masters Degree in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of experience. Prior experience should include economic development and redevelopment in low‑income communities; land use law; and working closely with private developers, lenders, retailers, community‑based organizations, local, state and federal agencies to implement master‑planned activities in a low‑income community. Membership in the American Institute of Certified Planners is preferred. Possession of and ability to maintain a valid State of Florida Driver’s License is required upon employment. Skills and Knowledge Knowledge and experience in Community Development, Economic Development, Redevelopment, Urban Development principles, Urban Planning and Marketing. Knowledge and experience in urban planning/design, land use law, redevelopment, applicable plans, codes, and regulatory documents, preparation/review of redevelopment and development agreements. Considerable knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and programs related to land use, grant procurement / administration and economic development activities. Considerable knowledge of private sector lending practices. Experience attracting desirable retail businesses, merchants, professional offices, and other businesses to low‑income communities. Experience working with Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts as related to financing and implementing public/private projects. Experience developing and implementing data‑dependent studies to target and encourage commercial development opportunities and achieve desired results. Experience in overseeing and monitoring the development of a business communication strategy and related marketing materials. Experience working with diverse, multi‑disciplinary groups to achieve complex objectives. Ability to lead multiple department efforts to create and implement plans for economic development or redevelopment. Ability to develop strategies, plans, programs, or projects based upon direction from city officials, with considerable input from the public, regulatory agencies, special interest groups, etc. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Knowledge of budget preparation and public administration. Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other city staff, elected officials, neighborhood representatives, business leaders, social service providers, and others. #J-18808-Ljbffr