Economic Development Manager

Position Summary:

Under the direction of the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the Economic Development Manager is responsible for planning, managing, and overseeing regulatory, business, and land-use activities that support the Tribe’s economic growth. This includes business attraction, leasing, compliance, business licensing, and land-use planning for Tribal properties. The position facilitates economic initiatives, ensures compliance with federal and Tribal regulations, and supports sustainable development strategies aligned with Wilton Rancheria’s goals and sovereignty principles.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategies to support the Tribe’s economic development goals and long-term sustainability in accordance with Tribal law.
• Coordinate and manage programs related to business attraction, retention, and expansion.
• Support land-use and infrastructure planning that promotes commercial, agricultural, and cultural growth.
• Identify and evaluate new business opportunities aligned with Tribal priorities and values.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align development activities with overall Tribal strategic plans.
• Oversee business and agricultural leasing programs for Tribal lands.
• Manage land-use requests, internal agreements, and compliance with Tribal and federal regulations (including BIA coordination).
• Review and analyze development proposals, feasibility studies, and economic impact assessments.
• Support pre-development activities such as environmental, zoning, and cultural resource reviews.
• Ensure financial accountability in development-related activities through monitoring leases, rents, and revenues.
• Track economic indicators and prepare reports on development performance and market trends.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with Tribal fiscal and administrative policies.
• Ensure all economic activities comply with applicable laws, Tribal codes, and federal regulations.
• Prepare reports and presentations on development projects and opportunities.
• Monitor and enforce lease compliance, business licenses, and other economic agreements.
• Coordinate with legal counsel, finance, and environmental departments to review contracts and regulatory obligations.
• Represent the Tribe in meetings, conferences, and intergovernmental meetings related to economic development.
• Deliver presentations to Tribal Council, community members, and external partners on ongoing and proposed initiatives.
• Promote Tribal economic interests and sovereignty in interactions with developers, agencies, and the public.
• Facilitate community engagement and transparency in major development projects.
• Promote collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the division.
• Model integrity, professionalism, and culturally respectful conduct in all internal and external relations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Knowledge of Tribal governance, sovereignty, and applicable federal, state, and local laws related to land and economic development.
• Understanding of Indian land ownership structures, including allotted and Tribal trust lands.
• Proficiency in land-use planning, zoning, lease management, and business licensing.
• Experience with property leasing, contract administration, and development agreements.
• Strong analytical and financial skills to evaluate business proposals and economic feasibility.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• Skilled in public speaking, negotiating, and building effective working relationships with Tribal members, developers, and government agencies.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet strict deadlines.
• Ability to prepare and present clear, concise, and well-supported recommendations and reports.
• Commitment to professionalism, integrity, and cultural competence in working with Native communities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Real Estate Development, Planning, or a closely related field required.
• Minimum of six (6) years of professional experience in economic development, land development, real estate, or business regulation.
• Experience in Tribal government or Native community economic development preferred.
• Must successfully pass a background investigation and maintain strict confidentiality,
• Must pass pre-employment and random drug testing.
• Must possess a valid California Driver’s License, have a safe driving record, and be insurable under the Tribe’s vehicle policy.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel in and out of state for meetings, training, and conferences as required.

Hiring Preference:

The Tribe shall give preference in employment opportunities first to Wilton Rancheria tribal members, then to spouses of tribal members and/or to other Native Americans.