Executive Director (Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance)

Location: Gibson City, IL
Status: Full-Time
Reports to: CEO, Gibson Area Hospital / President, GGAEA Board of Directors

Position Overview

The Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance (GGAEA) seeks a visionary, results-driven and strategic Executive Director to lead economic development initiatives in Gibson City and the surrounding region. The ideal candidate will be passionate about community growth, skilled in business development, and able to forge strong partnerships with government entities, private industry, and local organizations to advance Gibson City’s economic future.

This role will lead the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that drive business attraction, retention, expansion, workforce alignment, and regional competitiveness.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Vision

• Develop and implement a comprehensive multi-year economic development strategy aligned with Gibson City's long-term growth goals.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for business and industry recruitment, retention, and expansion across key sectors.
• Collaborate with community stakeholders and regional partners to position the greater Gibson area as an investment-ready destination.

Business & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison to existing and prospective businesses, site selectors, real estate professionals, and industry leaders.
• Foster strong relationships with city, county, state, and federal government officials to promote policies and programs that benefit Gibson City.
• Support small business and entrepreneurial growth through technical assistance, referrals, and connections to local and state resources.

Grants, Incentives & Funding

• Identify and pursue local, state, and federal funding opportunities to support infrastructure, site development, and workforce initiatives.
• Manage grant applications, compliance reporting, and partnership documentation.
• Leverage local incentives including TIF districts and other financing tools to support business development projects.

Marketing & Promotion

• Develop and implement a business marketing strategy to promote Gibson City’s assets, available sites, and quality of life.
• Represent GGAEA at Local, State, and National Economic Development Events. Actively participate in conferences, trade shows, and networking events to promote the Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance (GGAEA), strengthen strategic partnerships, and attract new investment opportunities. Engage with key stakeholders including Illinois economic development agencies such as the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Intersect Illinois, and the Illinois Economic Development Association (IEDA). Facilitate relationship-building and collaboration with local and regional partners to support economic growth initiatives and advance GGAEA’s mission.
• Maintain and regularly update the organization’s website, social media channels, and business development materials.

Organizational & Fiscal Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations of GGAEA, including budgeting, financial reporting, and staff or contractor supervision (as needed).
• Provide regular reports and updates to the Board of Directors and key stakeholders.
• Ensure organizational compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support GGAEA’s mission.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Economic Development, Business Administration, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or related field (master’s preferred).
• 3–5 years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, commercial development, advertising, business development, or community planning. 
• Demonstrated success in grant writing, incentive packaging, business engagement, commercial development and advertising.
• Familiarity with rural and small-town economic development strategies and challenges.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, data tools (GIS, IMPLAN, etc.), and web/social media platforms.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Tax Increment Financing (TIF), enterprise zones and public-private partnership models preferred.
• Knowledge of regional workforce development systems and talent pipeline strategies.
• Professional certifications such as CEcD (Certified Economic Developer), EDFP (Economic Development Finance Professional), or PCED (Professional Community & Economic Developer) a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $75,000 – $95,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Benefits consistent with Gibson Area Hospital benefits.
• Position will be an employee of Gibson Area Hospital

About Gibson City

Nestled in the heart of east central Illinois, Gibson City is a vibrant community built on a proud heritage and a promising future. With top-tier healthcare and education, a robust agricultural tradition, and a growing base of small businesses, Gibson City offers the perfect blend of stability and opportunity.

Strategically located at the crossroads of Illinois Highways 54, 47, and 9, our city provides unmatched regional connectivity—making it an ideal hub for business growth, logistics, and commuter access.

Whether you're looking to invest, innovate, or settle into a high-quality lifestyle, Gibson City delivers. Here, a thriving local economy meets a supportive, close-knit community. More than just a smart place to invest—Gibson City is a great place to call home.

Why Join GGAEA?

Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance (GGAEA): Driving Regional Growth

The Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance (GGAEA) is dedicated to strengthening our region’s economy by championing local business, investing in critical infrastructure, and fostering workforce development.

Rooted in a vibrant, close-knit community, GGAEA provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact—shaping the future of Gibson City and the surrounding area through strategic collaboration and forward-thinking initiatives. 

These are exciting times—and we’re just getting started.

To Apply

Please email the following materials to GGAEA Hiring Committee c/o Tom Bennett:

• A current resume
• A brief cover letter
• Contact information for three professional references