Lawrence, KS – Economic Development Director

About the Position

Are you a strategic, relationship-driven leader who can advance a high-impact economic development agenda through collaboration, innovation, and accountability? If so, apply to be Lawrence’s next Economic Development Director!

We’re looking for an exceptional systems-thinker and connector who is:

• Experienced in business attraction, retention, and site development
• Skilled at navigating intergovernmental partnerships and land use planning
• Grounded in values-based leadership with a data-informed approach

Lawrence, Kansas is a dynamic, university-driven city known for its progressive values, cultural richness, and civic energy. Nestled in Northeast Kansas just off I-70 and K-10, Lawrence blends small-town friendliness with metropolitan access to Kansas City (30 minutes from downtown) and 40 minutes to new KCI Airport.

Lawrence operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The City Manager’s Office leads the City’s strategic initiatives and cross-departmental collaboration. Economic Development is a core function, focused on sustainable growth, business partnerships, and regional coordination. The new Economic Development Director will report to the Assistant City Manager.

The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in municipal or regional economic development and a strong record of fostering public-private partnerships.

Required qualifications include:
• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, planning, economics, or related field
• Substantial experience in economic development, business recruitment, or site readiness

Preferred qualifications include:
• Master’s degree
• Experience in real estate development and commercial and industrial development.
• Familiarity with university-city economic initiatives
• Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation or progress toward certification

The City of Lawrence offers a salary of $150,000+/- DOE/DOQ.

For more information on this position, contact:
Clay Pearson, Senior Vice President
[email protected]
713-816-8639