SMALL BUSINESS & EXISTING INDUSTRY MANAGER
Lincoln Economic Development Association (LEDA)
Lincolnton, North Carolina
Position Summary
The Small Business & Existing Industry Manager plays a central role in strengthening the economic vitality of Lincolnton and Lincoln County by supporting the full lifecycle of local businesses—from entrepreneurial startups to established industries. This position leads efforts to attract, retain, and expand businesses by providing strategic guidance, managing key relationships, and delivering programs that foster job creation, workforce development, and long-term economic growth.
Reporting to the Executive Director, this role serves as a primary resource for the business community, offering hands-on support, coordinating initiatives, and connecting stakeholders to the tools and partnerships needed to succeed.
Key Responsibilities
Business Retention, Expansion & Attraction
- Lead initiatives to retain and expand existing businesses while supporting the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs
- Serve as a primary point of contact for business inquiries, guiding clients through startup, relocation, expansion, and operational challenges
- Manage and support expansion projects, including research, site selection, and coordination with internal and external stakeholders
- Monitor local business climate, identifying risks such as closures or reductions, and proactively develop solutions
- Build and maintain strong relationships with business owners, industry leaders, and community partners
Client Support & Advisory Services
- Provide strategic counseling on business planning, financial management, marketing, and operational improvements
- Connect businesses with appropriate resources, including funding opportunities, technical assistance providers, and professional services
- Maintain strong partnerships with organizations such as the Small Business Technical Development Center and Gaston College Small Business Center
- Conduct market and industry research to inform client decision-making and growth strategies
Business Engagement & Programs
- Lead and manage a comprehensive business visitation program to maintain regular engagement with local industries
- Coordinate and execute business appreciation events, networking opportunities, and industry programs
- Support and manage key initiatives such as Industry Appreciation Month and National Manufacturing Day activities
- Organize ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings, and milestone celebrations for local businesses
Workforce & Economic Development Initiatives
- Collaborate with educational institutions and partners to support workforce pipeline development in key industries
- Promote career opportunities in advanced manufacturing, trades, and emerging sectors
- Support strategies that align workforce capabilities with current and future business needs
Operations, Data & Resource Management
- Maintain and manage business directories, databases, and project tracking systems
- Track client progress, business activity, and economic impact, providing regular reporting and insights
- Maintain an up-to-date inventory of available sites and buildings and coordinate site visits
- Build and sustain relationships with property owners, developers, and real estate professionals
- Support incentive application processes and interface with city and county agencies as needed
Stakeholder & Community Engagement
- Serve as a liaison between businesses and local government, assisting with zoning, permitting, and regulatory navigation
- Support communications efforts, including press releases, business highlights, and targeted social media content
- Foster strong relationships across public and private sectors to enhance collaboration and resource alignment
Program & Association Management
- Support or manage affiliated programs and partnerships, including industry groups and business associations
- Assist with planning, budgeting, and administrative coordination for program-related initiatives
- Contribute to strategic planning efforts aligned with LEDA’s mission and priorities
Program & Association Management
- Manage and oversee affiliated programs, funds, and business associations supporting the local business community
- Lead operations of the Industrial Managers Association, including annual action planning aligned to industry needs
- Serve as Secretary of the Board for the Industrial Managers Association
- Oversee operations of the Lincoln County Industrial Park Owners Association and Airlie Business Park Owners Association, including budgeting, invoicing, collections, and expense management
- Track and manage maintenance costs (water, lighting, landscaping) and develop annual operating budgets for industrial parks
- Manage operations of the Indian Creek Fund, including financial administration and reporting
- Ensure accurate invoicing, collections, and timely payment of expenses across all managed entities
- Support program planning, budgeting, and alignment with LEDA’s strategic priorities
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, economic development, communications, planning, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
- 5+ years of experience in economic development, business development, project management, or related fields preferred
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple initiatives and work independently
- Strong relationship-building, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including business leaders, government officials, and community partners
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with CRM/database systems
- Ability to analyze data, prepare reports, and develop actionable insights
Additional Requirements
- Ability to travel locally within Lincoln County on a regular basis
- Flexibility to attend events and meetings outside standard business hours as needed
Pay: $65,000.00 - $73,500.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
