Director, Economic Development

Position to be filled by: 7/1/25

Company: City of Brookhaven

Location: Brookhaven, Georgia

Category: Development Authority, Local Government

Position Type: Full-Time

Education Requirement: Bachelor's

Experience Requirement: 5-10 years

Salary: Based on experience

How to Apply: www.thechasongroup.com

Job Description & Details:

The City of Brookhaven, Georgia is seeking a dynamic, visionary leader to serve as its next Director of Economic Development. This is a unique opportunity to shape the City's economic future, foster strategic partnerships, and promote Brookhaven as a thriving hub in the metro Atlanta region for business, innovation, and community growth. The Chason Group (www.thechasongroup.com) is leading the executive search for the City of Brookhaven in metro Atlanta.

About the Opportunity.
The Director, Economic Development will report directly to the City Manager and work closely with the Brookhaven Development Authority, elected officials, and key community stakeholders. This executive-level role will lead the City's economic development initiatives -focusing on business retention and expansion, strategic growth, and long-term community vitality.

Key responsibilities include:

• Creating and executing a strategic vision for Brookhaven's economic development. • Building strong relationships with developers, business leaders, and regional partners.
• Promoting Brookhaven as a competitive destination for investment and innovation.
• Leading marketing, retention, and recruitment strategies that align with the city's vision.
• Supporting public-private partnerships and identifying funding opportunities for development.
• Gain understanding

About Brookhaven, Georgia.
Located just northeast of Atlanta, Brookhaven is one of the metro area's most vibrant and rapidly growing cities. Incorporated in 2012, the city blends modern development with historic charm and offers an exceptional quality of life. Brookhaven is strategically positioned with access to major highways, public transit via MARTA, and close proximity to key economic centers, including Buckhead and Perimeter Center.

Brookhaven is home to a diverse and highly educated population, bustling commercial corridors, and established neighborhoods. The city hosts several corporate offices, regional headquarters, and healthcare institutions, including Emory University's Executive Park and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta - Arthur M. Blank Hospital. Its economic base continues to grow, driven by sectors such as healthcare, professional services, real estate, and technology.

Residents and visitors enjoy Brookhaven's abundant green space, walkable neighborhoods, and active lifestyle. The city features over a dozen parks, a thriving food and arts scene, and community events that bring people together year-round. With its strong sense of identity, forward-thinking leadership, and access to the broader Atlanta region, Brookhaven is a premier destination to live, work, and invest.

The Ideal Candidate.

• A bachelor's degree in business, economic development, marketing, public administration, or related field (master's preferred).
• Seven (7) years of progressive experience in economic development, urban planning, or a related field.
• A proven track record of working with governments, economic development organizations, and community stakeholders.
• Executive-level communication and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to manage multiple initiatives, analyze market data, and drive impactful outcomes.
• CEcD certification (preferred or achievable within the first year).
• Experience in P3 redevelopment.

How To Apply.
The City of Brookhaven has partnered with The Chason Group (TCG) to lead the Director, Economic Development search. TCG is recognized throughout the southeast for conducting senior-level executive searches for economic development entities, chambers of commerce, convention and visitors bureaus, non-profit organizations, and foundations.

Candidates interested in submitting a cover letter and resume for the Director's position may upload the documents at www.thechasongrouP-.com. The deadline to submit the materials and be considered for the position is May 16, 2025.

Candidates will be vetted by the TCG team using a pre-approved weighting scale. The most qualified professionals will receive a detailed application to complete. Zoom interviews will be held with the top candidates by the TCG team.

The vetting process will include at least two in-person meetings with the City Manager. The second interview session will require the selected candidate(s) to make a brief presentation to the City's leadership.

The City of Brookhaven anticipates the start date for the new Director in July 2025.

For questions relating to the executive search, please contact Mark Lytle at mlytle@thechasongroup.com or 470.279.9388. Candidates may also contact Tim Chason at tchason@thechasongroup.com or 404.735.0540.