Economic Development Officer - Closing March 31, 2026
The Economic Development Officer (“EDO”) is responsible for supporting the promotion, growth and development of the Municipality of Port Hope’s (“Municipality”) economic base through investment readiness and business attraction activities, targeted industry development initiatives aligned to Port Hope’s Economic Development Strategy, as well as support retention and expansion of existing businesses. The role produces data and high-quality sector and site materials, advances assigned workstreams, convenes partners for initiative delivery, and maintains discipled reporting on outputs and outcomes. There will be a focus on tourism, film and related value chain development, value-added agriculture and food processing and other priority sectors. The EDO is a key “doer” role in a small team: Project-based, partner-facing, and execution-focused.
Benefits and Perks
- Employer paid Group Health, Dental and Life Insurance after three months of employment
- OMERS Pension Plan from the date of hire
- Professional Development and Skill Based Training Opportunities
- Alternate Work Arrangements
- Wellness, Social and Staff Ambassador Committees
- Employee and Family Assistance Plan
- Perks and Savings Partnerships
$70,398 - $82,356 per annum (compensation is currently under review)
Qualifications
- University degree in Community or Economic Development, Business, Entrepreneurship, Urban Planning/Development, Marketing, Tourism or related field.
- An Economic Development designation, or ability to obtain within 2 years, is an asset.
- Three (3) to five (5) years work related experience.
- Knowledge of municipal affairs and planning processes, marketing principles, and market analysis, marketing and promotions, would be an asset.
- Knowledge of real estate as well as geographic and socio-economic characteristics of the Municipality of Port Hope.
- Support investment readiness, and investment and expansion projects by maintaining and improving investment tools and assets, undertaking research, site tour preparation, coordinating internal inputs to support proponents, issues documentation and follow-up tracking.
- Support the creation of Port Hope’s economic development marketing and promotional collateral and campaigns, to position the Municipality as an attractive location for business startup, relocation and expansion.
- Lead targeted industry development initiatives aligned to the Economic Development Strategy (e.g. identify and develop tourism opportunities to enhance the municipality’s profile as a destination of choice. Lead priority sector outreach and coordination, supply-chain development and attraction, capacity and workforce aligned initiatives and readiness micro-projects).
- Administer the Community Improvement Program (CIP), business retention and expansion program, and business support initiatives. Measure and report on the effectiveness and attainment of attraction and retention objectives.
- Prepare concise, decision-ready materials (briefing notes, slide decks, partner updates, Council/SLT inputs) as assigned and maintain assigned records in CRM and contribute to pipeline reporting.
- Act as a primary point of contact for small business owners, entrepreneurs, early-stage start-ups, business improvement areas (BIAs) and partners seeking guidance and support within the municipality.
- Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of community events to support economic development objectives, and collaborate with the Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, local businesses, and stakeholders to ensure successful event delivery and maximize community participation.
- Build strategic partnerships and facilitate the development of collaborative relationships with a variety of local, regional and national stakeholders.
- Possess or develop a thorough understanding of grants, funds, programs and the skills to complete applications for such funds, grants and programs; provide an ongoing consultative liaison for businesses wishing to participate in these programs.
- Coordinate the communication strategy and website content with the Communications division to optimize communication opportunities and to promote business development and community brand messaging.
- Leads the development, implementation and maintenance of a comprehensive business directory, including an inventory of available commercial properties for lease or sale across the municipality.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Manager, Economic Development or designate.
- Excellent verbal communication skills including courtesy, tact, discretion, explanation, interpretation, negotiation, judgment, persuasion, and presentation skills.
- Excellent written communication skills including flexible writing style to meet the varied requirements of the work and medium being used; ability to write clear, concise messages and edit content, structure and spelling with high degree of quality and accuracy.
- Advanced computer skills including expertise with MS Office applications, social media platforms, graphic design, client and data management software.
- Organization and time management skills, including ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure.
- High degree of professionalism, political astuteness and interpersonal skills.
- Valid and satisfactory ‘G’ driver’s license and access to own vehicle.
- Valid and satisfactory Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check.
- Office environment with some requirement to work hours outside of normal schedule.
- Some travel required.
- Regular interruptions, competing priorities and time sensitive deadlines.
Submit an Application
Please submit your cover letter and resume online at Careers - Municipality of Port Hope by Tuesday March 31, 2026. Interviews may be scheduled in advance of the closing date. This position is currently vacant.
Recruitment Process
The Municipality of Port Hope is a progressive employer who believes a diverse and inclusive workplace strengthens the team and fosters an environment where everyone feels as though they belong and their dignity, beliefs and identity are respected.
We are committed to creating and sustaining an environment that provides a supportive workplace and equal opportunity for all employees. Accommodations can be requested throughout the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
Applications will be reviewed, and interviews may be scheduled prior to the job posting closing date. All applicants will receive an automated email confirming the submission of their application, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be further contacted by Human Resources.
Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Municipal Act, as amended.