Executive Director - Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation

Elevate Business Solutions is proud to assist in a role that makes a huge impact in our community!

The Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC) seeks a resourceful Executive Director to lead its programs and daily operations, carry out the strategic priorities set by the Board of Directors to retain, foster and attract businesses in Lincoln County. The Director works one-on-one with entrepreneurs, local government agencies, business owners, meets with community partners, and manages the needs of a nonprofit organization.

The role blends hands-on business assistance with broader economic and community development work, including business retention, expansion, local workforce, broadband, housing, childcare, and outdoor recreation initiatives. The Director also promotes LCEDC and is an advocate for Lincoln County's interests while managing budgets, grants and the Investors Program. Candidates are not expected to have experience in every area; the Board welcomes applicants who have strong skills in some areas along with the initiative, adaptability, and willingness to learn. 

Key Responsibilities:

Business Assistance & BizLinC Program Leadership: Lead the development, promotion, and daily operation of BizLinC; provide one-on-one guidance on business planning, financing, marketing, and operations; recruit and coordinate volunteer mentors, advisors, and partners (including the SBDC, WWBIC, educational institutions, and lenders); and track client activity and program outcomes to improve the program.

Business Development & Economic Opportunities: Build relationships with existing businesses to support retention, expansion, transition, and investment; help businesses and entrepreneurs pursue grants, loans, and other financing with local and regional lenders; and support business attraction, site selection, and property development.

Collaborative Economic & Community Development: Convene businesses, local governments, community organizations, and regional or state partners on initiatives; connect employers with educational institutions, training providers, and workforce agencies; support housing, childcare, and outdoor recreation and tourism efforts, including Outdoor Recreation Technical Assistance Program (ORTAP) initiatives; and assist with other Board-approved projects.

Broadband Commission & Technology Resources Support: Serve as LCEDC's primary staff liaison to the Lincoln County Broadband Commission, handling meeting coordination, agendas, minutes, and records; support communication among providers, residents, businesses, and governments; and help identify funding and promote resources that improve digital access, skills, and technology adoption.

Organizational Visibility, Partnerships & Advocacy: Increase awareness and use of LCEDC's programs; build relationships with businesses, local governments, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, community organizations, and elected officials; serve as a primary spokesperson and advocate for Lincoln County with local, regional, state, and federal leaders; and lead communications, marketing, the website, and selected educational and networking events.

Organizational Management & Sustainability: Manage daily operations and implement the Strategic Plan with the Board and Executive Committee; develop and manage budgets, records, and required reporting; pursue and manage grants, sponsorships, and other funding; support the Investors Program, including recruitment, retention, and recognition; and recruit and coordinate Board members, volunteers, and partners while working with the Board on long-term sustainability.

Qualifications:

Core: Experience in small business assistance, economic or community development, or nonprofit leadership; strong communication, organization, technical (web/MS office) and budgeting skills; ability to work with a dynamic Board of Directors, volunteers and oversee projects.

Preferred: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; mentoring, financing, grant, and nonprofit experience; knowledge of rural Wisconsin economic development.

Personal Attributes:

Approachable, collaborative, proactive, adaptable, strategic yet hands-on, and professional.

Additional Information:

Flexible schedule combining remote work, the Merrill office, and county travel; occasional evening meetings; reports to the volunteer Board of Directors.