Michigan Economic Development Jobs

1. Director of Community Development - Cornerstone Alliance

Cornerstone Alliance is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Position Title: Director of Community Development
Reports To: Senior Vice President
Organization: Cornerstone Alliance
Location: Benton Harbor, MI
FLSA Status: Full Time, Exempt
Salary Range: $75,000 to $95,000 DOE
Application Deadline: 10/31/25

POSITION SUMMARY

Cornerstone Alliance is the lead non-profit economic development organization for Berrien County, Michigan. The Director of Community Development is responsible for managing and executing community development projects that enhance Berrien County’s quality of place, economic growth, and long-term sustainability. Working closely with the Senior Vice President (SVP), the Director serves as the project manager who ensures that initiatives are implemented on time, on budget, and with measurable results. While the SVP serves as the strategist and deal-maker, the Director translates strategy into action—moving projects forward, coordinating partners, and ensuring successful completion.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Project & Program Management

• Manage the day-to-day execution of projects, from planning to completion.
• Develop work plans, timelines, and performance measures for projects led by the SVP.
• Coordinate with municipalities, developers, consultants, and other stakeholders to keep projects on track.
• Prepare and present regular status reports to leadership, partners, and funders.

Quality of Place & Revitalization Initiatives

• Manage placemaking projects, downtown revitalization, infrastructure improvements, and community enhancements.
• Oversee implementation of public realm improvements, business district upgrades, and other quality-of-life initiatives.
• Ensure projects align with broader strategies and support workforce attraction and retention.

Stakeholder & Community Coordination

• Support SVP in stakeholder engagement by ensuring commitments are followed through with clear action steps.
• Facilitate communication between municipalities, developers, community partners, and Cornerstone Alliance staff.
• Organize convenings, workshops, and public engagement sessions to advance project goals.

Cornerstone Alliance is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Site & Property Development Support

• Assist in due diligence, feasibility studies, and redevelopment planning for priority sites.
• Track milestones in site readiness, infrastructure improvements, and redevelopment projects.
• Ensure compliance with agreements, incentives, and funding requirements.

Commercial Tax Abatements

• Serve as the primary facilitator for commercial tax abatement processes.
• Work with companies and municipalities to provide education on available tools and benefits.
• Assist businesses with preparing and submitting abatement applications.
• Coordinate with municipal partners to ensure smooth review, approval, and compliance processes.

Grant Reporting & Compliance

• Manage grant-funded projects, ensuring compliance with reporting and performance requirements.
• Track and monitor budgets for assigned projects, working closely with the finance team.
• Support preparation of grant applications, reports, and funding requests.

Cross Departmental Collaboration

• Work closely with the Economic Development and Finance teams to ensure project alignment with organizational priorities and financial stewardship.
• Provide project support to other departments as needed to advance shared strategic objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Public Administration, Business, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 5–7 years of experience in project management, community development, or economic development.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders, contractors, and consultants.
• Familiarity with municipal tools (DDA, BRA, TIF, RRC) and redevelopment processes preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to move multiple projects forward simultaneously.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to translate strategic direction into actionable steps and results.

Email Resume and Cover Letter to mschneider@cstonealliance.org

2. Vice President of Engagement - Cornerstone Alliance

Cornerstone Alliance is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Position Title: Vice President of Engagement
Reports To: President
Organization: Cornerstone Alliance
Location: Benton Harbor, MI
FLSA Status: Full Time, Exempt
Salary Range: $80,000 to $100,000 DOE
Application Deadline: 10/31/25

POSITION SUMMARY

Cornerstone Alliance, a non-profit economic development organization, is seeking a dynamic and relationship-driven Vice President of Engagement to lead and execute the organization’s investor relations strategy. This position is responsible for overseeing all investor accounts and will play a key leadership role in developing and implementing strategic initiatives to fully fund the organization’s operating budget through meaningful engagement, relationship cultivation, and innovative programming.

This is not a traditional fundraising role - it is about building connections. The VP of Engagement will identify and evaluate prospective investors, create pathways for engagement, and connect them with appropriate members of our team to foster long-term, mission-aligned relationships. The investment follows the relationship, not the other way around.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive investor engagement strategy aligned with Cornerstone Alliance’s mission and strategic goals.
• Lead our team in a collaborative, results-oriented approach to relationship building and investor stewardship.
• Set the strategic direction and vision for all investor-related events, sponsorship opportunities, and engagement programs.
• Analyze trends and develop creative engagement models that strengthen investor relationships and build community among investors.

Investor Relations and Engagement

• Oversee all investor accounts, ensuring consistent communication, stewardship, and reporting.
• Identify and qualify prospective investors, developing tailored engagement strategies for cultivation and eventual investment.
• Partner with internal team members to facilitate investor introductions and create customized touch points.
• Organize and execute investor meetings, site visits, and events that deepen relationships and showcase impact.
• Create opportunities for investors to engage with one another and with the work of the organization.

Cornerstone Alliance is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with the leadership team and department heads to align investor activities with organizational initiatives and outcomes.
• Collaborate with the Finance team to ensure that all investments are properly tracked, recorded, and reconciled.
• Maintain and manage investor data and engagement history using the organization’s CRM system.
• Collaborate across departments to ensure investor messaging and value propositions are consistent and compelling.
• Represent Cornerstone Alliance at community, regional, and industry events to build awareness and strengthen investor networks.

Data and Analysis

• Use data to assess engagement levels, identify gaps, and track progress toward revenue goals.
• Maintain accurate records of investor activity, prospecting efforts, and event participation using the organization’s CRM system.
• Prepare and present reports on investor engagement trends, revenue projections, and relationship health.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, public relations, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in investor relations, community engagement, fundraising, or a related role.
• Experience in working with an economic development organization is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with a proven ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated experience in creating professional reports and presentations.
• Event planning, grant writing, and/or fundraising experience is highly desirable.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, results-driven environment.
• Familiarity with the Berrien County community and its business ecosystem is a plus.
• Proficiency in CRM systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and social media platforms.

Email Resume and Cover Letter to mschneider@cstonealliance.org

3. Economic Development Manager - City of Sterling Heights

The City of Sterling Heights is seeking an Economic Development Manager who is proactive, organized, and collaborative!

• Salary range: $115,000 - $141,000 annually
• Competitive 401(a) employer contribution
• Medical with a VERY LOW premium share
• Dental at NO COST
• Vision with a VERY LOW premium share
• $2,500 annual contribution into a Retiree Post Employment Health Plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Every other Friday off!
• Access to an on-site Employee Health & Wellness Center staffed with a physician and nurse for you and any dependents
• ...and so much more!

Position Summary
Under the direction of the City Manager, the Economic Development Manager provides strategic leadership in managing the City’s Economic Development program and is responsible for developing, recommending, promoting, and implementing goals, strategies, and policies to provide businesses, community leaders and organizations, and residents with information, guidance, and support. Conducts research and provides analysis on economic health, real estate trends, and commercial development of property, including business recruitment, job development, and business retention strategies. Executes substantial real estate transactions. Exercises a high degree of responsibility and independent judgment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Economics, Business Administration, Urban Planning, or related field; a Master's Degree is preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in economic development or a related field.
• Strong project management skills with a proven ability to oversee complex initiatives.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in data analysis, market research, and economic trend analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to secure grants and funding for economic development projects.
• Proficiency in using tools such as Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis software.
• Knowledge of local zoning, permitting processes, and economic development regulations.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal economic development programs, issues, and trends. Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing circumstances.
• International Economic Development Council Certification CEcD desired.

For the full job description, click HERE

Check out the recruitment brochure for further information and details:
Economic Development Manager Recruitment Brochure

Interested in viewing additional benefit information? Click HERE to access the Summary of Compensation and Benefits!

Application Directions

Please visit the following link to apply: City of Sterling Heights Job Page

Questions about the role? Reach out to hr@sterlingheights.gov

4. Business Development Manager - The Right Place, Inc.

Do you love connecting with business leaders and helping communities grow? Are you energized by building relationships that make a real impact on a region’s economy? Do you thrive on collaboration, strategic problem-solving, and helping companies find the resources they need to grow and succeed? If so, we want YOU to be our next Business Development Manager! Join us and help drive West Michigan’s continued economic vitality by supporting business growth, expansion, and attraction throughout the region.

Position Summary:

The Business Development Manager actively represents The Right Place, Inc. (RPI) to businesses located in West Michigan or interested in establishing a presence in the region. The Business Development Manager serves as an advocate for businesses, facilitating their access to services and resources, and positioning West Michigan as an optimal destination for business expansion.

Key Responsibilities:

• Business Engagement & Support: Proactively engage with local companies, often collaborating with local and state partners, to address business concerns and describe RPI’s service offerings.
• Industry Development & Collaboration: Build strategies and partnerships that promote West Michigan as a hub for advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and technology industries.
• Budget & Marketing Support: Collaborate with internal teams on marketing strategies and trade show participation.
• Data & Reporting: Maintain accurate client information, track project progress, and provide insights on economic trends.
• Promotion & Representation: Represent RPI in professional associations, community events, and industry forums.

To learn more & apply, visit: https://www.indeed.com/job/business-development-manager-3b92e3646345ca14

5. Executive Director - Benzie County Chamber of Commerce

The Benzie County Chamber of Commerce is seeking a visionary Executive Director to lead our newly integrated Chamber and Economic Development Partnership. This leader will drive economic growth, foster collaboration across business and government sectors, and position Benzie County for long-term prosperity.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Countywide Economic Development

Guide initiatives in business attraction, retention, talent development, infrastructure readiness, and neighborhood revitalization.

Champion Local Businesses

Serve as a strong advocate through the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance and with policymakers at the regional, state, and federal levels.

Cultivate Sustainable Funding

Build and maintain a strong investor base, engaging both private- and public-sector partners to ensure financial stability.

Connect People & Resources

Link entrepreneurs, employers, and community leaders to capital, workforce training, and growth opportunities.

Provide Strategic Leadership

Work in close partnership with the Board of Directors to shape and implement the organization’s vision, with transparency and accountability.

Oversee Organizational Excellence

Manage staff, operations, financial resources, fundraising activities, and communications to ensure effective and impactful performance.

Qualifications

Demonstrated success in economic development, chamber leadership, nonprofit management, or related fields.

Experience in fundraising, investor relations, and coalition-building.

Strong knowledge of business development, workforce trends, infrastructure needs, and public policy.

Exceptional communication, advocacy, and relationship-building skills.

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or professional certification (CEcD, CCE, IOM, or equivalent) strongly preferred.

Personal Attributes

Visionary and strategic, with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Collaborative leader who values partnerships and inclusive growth.

Results-driven and able to translate vision into measurable action.

Passionate about rural economic development and community vitality.

Compensation

This position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and résumé to: director@benziechamber.org

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

6. Director of Economic Development - Lansing Economic Development Corporation

Date of Posting: August 13, 2025

Company: Lansing Economic Development Corporation (Lansing EDC)

Great leadership opportunity in Economic Development

The Lansing EDC is a nonprofit economic development organization focused exclusively on the city of Lansing, Michigan. We serve as a bridge between the public and private sectors to create a stronger economy and better community. We are a diverse team of skilled and knowledgeable professionals who share a passion for serving Lansing. Our mission is to improve the Lansing community by fostering strategic, sustainable, and equitable economic development. For more information on the Lansing EDC, staff, and the Board of Directors, visit lansingedc.com.

Compensation: Salaried $80,000 to $95,000. Commensurate with demonstrated skills, professional qualifications, and experience.

Benefits: Full medical, dental and vision coverage; 401(k) match program with 6% match; a diverse, dynamic, and flexible environment; generous personal time allowance and holiday leave, including 80 Paid Time Off (PTO) hours following 90-day probationary hire period and continued accumulation after that; paid parking; paid professional development.

Work Location: The work location is primarily in person at the Lansing EDC office in Lansing, Michigan, with limited remote working opportunities.

Reports to: Kris Klein, President & CEO

Required: Cover Letter, Resume, and Three Professional References.

To Apply: https://www.indeed.com/job/director-economic-development-bee6e5ec422e976a

Position Description:

The Lansing EDC Director of Economic Development is responsible for the organization's Redevelopment and Business Services Division including overseeing complex real estate development projects and utilizing incentives, advancing effective business development programming, managing project and program staff, and representing the Lansing EDC in the community. By working closely with community stakeholders, businesses, developers, and government agencies, the Director of Economic Development will generate real and lasting results that will change lives and make the city of Lansing a better place to live.

The ideal candidate will have a strong combination of personnel and program management and technical skills, including experience with business expansion, retention, attraction, real estate, brownfield redevelopment, and placemaking. They should also have exceptional communication and presentation skills and a strong track record of meaningful community engagement and stakeholder collaboration.

The candidate should also have experience in lending, financial modeling, business plans, real estate development pro formas, credit analysis, business plan review, and accounting and finance skills. They must also be able to review and understand complex contracts, legal documents, public policies, and legislation.

Success in this position requires a strong commitment to helping people, a deep understanding of fairness, access, inclusion, and representation, a willingness to learn, and the desire to help people, the community, and businesses in Lansing.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

The Director of Economic Development will manage multiple direct reports and be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:

• Manage and coordinate real estate development projects for the Lansing EDC, including brownfield redevelopment, placemaking and public infrastructure improvements.
• Oversee business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts for the Lansing EDC.
• Meet with businesses and property owners, developers, stakeholders, and others to discuss development projects, economic development programs, incentives and other development tools.
• Attend public meetings, give project presentations, represent businesses and developers.
• Represent the Lansing EDC on committees/boards and public bodies, as assigned. Most meetings are held during traditional business hours. However, some night and weekend meetings will be required.
• Work with environmental consultants, local organizations, the city of Lansing, and other stakeholders in leveraging state and federal dollars for economic development purposes, including researching and writing grant applications.
• Conduct administrative and accounting work related to economic development projects.
• Perform ongoing monitoring, tracking, auditing, and reporting of projects, grants, loans, incentives, and other programs.
• Develop and conduct site searches for businesses and development projects.
• Perform such other duties as may be assigned by the President & CEO.

Qualifications:

• Five or more years of experience in economic development or a similar profession, with at least two years in a supervisor or managerial role.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, real estate, accounting, economic development, or a related field of study.
• Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) and/or Certified Economic Developer (CEcD).
• Member of Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDC) or International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
• Valid driver’s license and the use of a personal vehicle for work purposes.

Skills Necessary:

• Ability to work under pressure, manage a large workload, and meet deadlines.
• Possess strong analytical, interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills; able to communicate with a broad and diverse audience of all levels.
• Possess a knowledge of Project Management and Microsoft Office software.
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative team environment.
• Demonstrate a high level of self-direction and strong desire to achieve high-level results.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of highly sensitive information.

Apply here: https://www.indeed.com/job/director-economic-development-bee6e5ec422e976a

All information received from applicants is held in the highest confidence. This position may require a full criminal and credit background check.

Lansing Economic Development Corporation (Lansing EDC) provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, the Lansing EDC complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfers, leaves of absence, compensation and/or training.

7. Executive Director - Otsego County Economic Alliance

OCEA is an economic development nonprofit serving Gaylord and Otsego County, MI. Founded in 2001, the OCEA works to foster sustainable economic growth and improve the quality of life across the region through strategic public/private collaborations. The Executive Director reports to a volunteer Board of Directors and has various areas of responsibility.

Organization

• Present positive professional respectful behavior, develop programs that create high quality development and manage economic growth.
• Develop and manage an annual budget and plan of work while executing on goals annually as set by organization.
• Lead organizational fund-raising efforts and maintain a broad base of support in area served.
• Develop a working relationship with business and industry leaders in Otsego County.
• Coordinate public relations activities, meet with the media and promote organizations brand.
• Be a resident of Otsego County which is the core service area in which OCEA operates.
• Hire, coach and manage staff by building a fun collaborative work culture, maintain personnel files and all organization records in proper order.
• Fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement through staff, board and community partners.
• Prepare monthly activity reports highlighting community development activities, business retention and expansion activities, jobs retained, business start-up and attraction activities, and new jobs.
• Compile an annual report detailing the activities and accomplishments of the organization, including but not limited to the data, statistics and kpi impact to the community. This information would be routinely shared in public capacity to stakeholders, partners, businesses and the community.
• Operate the business operations of OCEA with in-office presence during stated business hours as established by the Board of Directors. This is not a Remote Position.

Business Development

• Work closely with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan Small Business Development Center, and others to support the start up, retention, and expansion of existing businesses and location of new companies to Gaylord and Otsego County.
• Serve as an information resource for local site availability and local permit procedures while engaging local professionals when applicable.
• Lead and execute marketing and strategic initiatives to attract or assist expansions of businesses in Otsego County.
• Serve as a resource link between business, industry, government, education facilities and community.
• Serve on appropriate boards, committees and commissions as approved by the OCEA Board of Directors.
• Promote a diversity of businesses in all sectors of the economy with an emphasis on high value products and wages.

Community Development 

• Champion economic growth as a path to a more prosperous Otsego County and surrounding area.
• Create community development programs that promote high quality development, manage economic growth, maintain the region’s unique quality of life.
• Provide assistance to communities with infrastructure development and revitalization efforts.
• Provide technical assistance with community revitalization, business attractions, economic analysis, business park development, industrial park development, historic preservation, economic planning and goal setting.
• Lead and facilitate conversations with any and all stakeholders in OCEA coverage area about the best policies and practices that drive prosperity through economic development and growth.
• Provide leadership and develop partnerships to leverage resources to achieve community goals.

Necessary Skills

• Ability to complete projects with minimal supervision, work within deadlines, manage multiple projects, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work with large and small groups, provide leadership, solve problems, and resolve conflicts.
• Ability to build trust and respect in all interactions.
• Ability to use current technology, creative writing, proposal preparation, and presentation skills.
• Exhibit strong business ethics and provide excellent customer service. Ability to learn from accepting open honest feedback, act with empathy and understand others opinions.
• Ability to gather, analyze, and present various types of information and data.
• Effective communicator, both verbal and non-verbal in all interactions. Ability to speak fluently about organization, relevant facts and accuracy with all communications.
• Ability to manage a staff effectively and in a manner with appreciation, respect, and professionalism.
• Ability to promote mission of organization while growing support, including but not limited to financial support, organizational support, convening various parties to accomplish a task whether as a leader or contributor

Education and Experience

• Master’s Degree preferred with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree.
• Economic Development Institute and/or National Development Council training preferred.
• Preferred experience in any of the following: economic and community development, business/finance, public administration, civil or municipal engineering or grant administration.
• Partnership, packaging and management of projects utilizing Community Development Block Grants, MDOT Transportation Alternatives, EDA, MEDC, Brownfield, EGLE, DNR and/or USDA programs.
• Experience with localized programs, services and departments with DDA, City, Townships and County.
• Strives for continuous learning opportunities relevant to job role, programming or partnership development.

How to Apply

• Qualified candidates shall submit a letter of interest, resume and references to the Otsego County Economic Alliance, Attn: Nick Florian, Chairman via e-mail to info@gaylord-otsego.com. Delivery by USPS can also be made to Nick Florian, OCEA Chairman, 100 E. Main St., Gaylord, MI 49735.
• Salary Range $80,000 – $105,000
• Employment Salaried, Full Time
• Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision, Life
• Retirement Benefits Qualified Plan
• Paid Time Off Yes
• Personal/Sick Time Yes