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Adventure is a way of life in DeKalb County, Alabama. Everyone knows it’s a place where you keep your feet on the ground while your hands get to work. Whether climbing, hunting, fishing, hiking, off-roading, mountain biking, or zip-lining, there’s no shortage of fun for an adventurous spirit. 

It’s an outdoorsman’s (and outdoorswoman’s) paradise. DeKalb is home to attractions like Little River Canyon National Preserve, known as “Alabama’s Grand Canyon,” DeSoto State Park, Grace’s High Falls, Mentone Market, DeKalb County Lake, Buck’s Pocket State Park, Lookout Mountain, and Lookout Mountain Parkway, named by Readers Digest as one of “America’s Most Scenic Drives.” 

Not to mention the growing eclectic downtown of Fort Payne. With its artistic flare, a tight-knit community, and the best doggone food you’ll ever eat, Alabama’s Mountain Town has become one of Alabama’s most popular vacation destinations and an idyllic place to raise a family.

Along the northern edge of DeKalb County runs Sand Mountain which is home to several thriving communities as well. Rainsville is home to Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative which has established this area of Alabama as a leading provider of rural fiber communications with the broadest and most robust fiber network in the state.  And, just across the county line in the heart of Sand Mountain is Northeast Alabama Community College which is just completing the construction of a brand new, state-of-the-art, Workforce Development Complex.

The DeKalb County Economic Development Authority has released a dream job opportunity for qualified candidates looking to break free of the traditional career mold and combine business with pleasure. 

The search is on for an Executive Director who will spearhead economic growth in the beloved county. Whether you live in DeKalb or are interested in relocating, if you have a passion for the outdoors, enjoy collaborating with people, and strengthening businesses for the benefit of a community, this job is for you.

As executive director, you will be supported by a whole host of local and state officials who will ensure the role has a seat at the table in Montgomery and credibility with those who come to visit DeKalb County in search of what we have to offer.

In fact, Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) and Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro) represent significant parts of DeKalb county in their districts. As well as State Sen. Andrew Jones (R-Centre), who has become a leading force in the state’s outdoor recreation and economic development efforts at the highest level.

As executive director, you’ll have the opportunity to synchronize on the longstanding efforts made by DeKalb County lawmakers while receiving support from the state’s top economic development official, Alabama Secretary of Commerce Ellen McNair and the elite team of professionals she leads.

The official job description can be found here as well as below: 

The Executive Director oversees the effective operation of economic development activities within DeKalb County for the purpose of promoting and strengthening existing businesses and industries within the county and attracting new industries which will provide jobs and contribute to the quality of life for the citizens of DeKalb County. The Executive Director promotes a positive and encouraging environment and cooperates and coordinates the efforts of all municipal and county agencies in DeKalb County.

Specific objectives, responsibilities, duties, and training requirements for this position include but are not limited to:

• Market real estate (land/buildings) to potential job creation prospects.
• Form relationships with key economic development stakeholders like local mayors and city leaders, state project managers, regional partners, utility providers, and site selectors to market the community’s assets.
• Educate the community on the EDA’s role in creating jobs and investment in our community through public presentations with groups like civic clubs, council/commission meetings, and publishing newspaper articles.
• Work with TVA representatives and elected officials on infrastructure enhancement opportunities, transportation objectives, and utility plans.
• Collaborate with both the local K-12 schools and community/technical college and education
  providers to build the local talent pipeline by increasing access to things like apprenticeships,
  dual enrollment, and other initiatives that will enhance our workforce.
• Networks with economic development leadership in other communities to stay abreast of success stories and gain ideas for improvement.
• Works with and builds relationships with local industries to ensure they grow and maintain their operations in the community.

Qualifications: 

EDUCATION – A bachelor’s degree in business, economics, marketing or equivalent. Advance degree preferred and continuing education/certification in economic development.

EXPERIENCE – A minimum of three years’ experience in economic/industrial development. Demonstrated experience of leading and collaborating with a variety of stakeholders in the promotion of economic development and growth within a community.

ATTITUDE – Must be willing and able to work in a team environment and possess the highest character and integrity, dependability, and desire to improve, that promotes and encourages an effective team. Should be friendly and able to meet people easily and adjust to different personalities. Should be able to gain and maintain the respect and trust of others, both inside and outside of the organization. Should have a specific interest and desire for the prosperity and quality of life for the citizens of DeKalb County.

Ready to apply for your next adventure? Please send a letter of interest and a detailed resume to [email protected]. 

Courtesy of SoulGrown Alabama.