Nestled at the crossroads of the Rio Grande Valley just 20 miles from the Mexican border, the City of Harlingen is known for its diverse businesses, natural beauty, and incredible quality of life. From shopping to hunting, hitting the town or heading out to the coast, this community of just under 72,000 residents has something for everyone.

The City of Harlingen operates under a council-manager form of government, with all powers and authority of the City vested in the elected City Commission, made up of five members. The Development Corporation of Harlingen, Inc. (dba Harlingen Economic Development Corporation) was organized in 1990 following the citizens’ vote to approve establishing the HEDC as a Type A Texas nonprofit corporation for the purpose of promoting and developing new and expanded business enterprises in the City. The HEDC has assisted a variety of projects, including manufacturing, distribution, corporate offices, medical, educational and retail developments, which have resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in new investment and thousands of new jobs. It has also won several awards from the Southern Economic Development Council for its marketing activities. The HEDC is governed by a five-member Board of Directors appointed by the Harlingen City Commission. The Mayor and City Manager serve as ex-officio board members.

The new executive director will coordinate, manage, direct, and oversee the City’s economic development activities and operations and provide administrative support to the HEDC. They will work under the policy direction of the Development Corporation, City Commission, and federal, state, and local laws. The HEDC is searching for a visionary and strategic leader ready to guide development in a city on the move. Candidates should be excellent communicators and negotiators, skilled economic developers who work collaboratively and understand that success is built upon strong relationships throughout the organization and the community.

This position requires a bachelor’s degree in economic development, finance, economics, public administration or a related field, with a master’s degree preferred. Candidates should also have at least six years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, including two of management and administration experience. Professional certification as an economic developer is preferred, as is experience in local government and working with an Economic Development Corporation. Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.

Please apply online.

For more information on this position contact:
Marsha Reed, Sr. Vice President
Strategic Government Resources
MarshaReed@GovernmentResource.com
806-789-9641