City of Portland – Director of Housing and Economic Development

Department of Housing and Economic Development

About the Department

The Housing and Economic Development Department is focused on cultivating a healthy and vibrant economic climate, including the working waterfront, as well as fostering housing development opportunities in the City of Portland. The Department includes divisions for business assistance, housing and community development, and economic opportunity.

The Position

The Director of Housing and Economic Development serves as a City leader in advancing Portland's housing, community development, and economic development strategies. As a member of the City Manager's leadership team, the Director provides strategic vision, organizational leadership, and policy guidance across housing production and preservation, community development, economic vitality, workforce and opportunity initiatives, waterfront planning, and business development.

The Director supervises the Business Programs Manager, Housing and Community Development Division Director, Waterfront Coordinator, Principal Administrative Officer, Program Coordinator, and Office of Economic Opportunity Director.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership

• Leads and provides strategic direction for the Housing and Economic Development Department
  
• Establishes department goals, priorities, and performance expectations
  
• Builds a departmental culture focused on collaboration, innovation, accountability, and customer service
  
• Coaches and develops department staff

Housing

• Directs the City's housing and community development programs, including federally funded initiatives
  
• Develops strategies and partnerships that increase housing production, affordability, and preservation
  
• Supports Council development of housing-related policy

Economic Development

• Builds relationships with employers, developers, institutions, and investors
  
• Supports Council development of economic development policy
  
• Oversees business financing, workforce development, and job training programs

Financial

• Oversees preparation and administration of the department's operating budget
  
• Directs administration of federal and state grant programs
  
• Directs Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts and related development programs

Partnerships

• Develops partnerships with neighborhood organizations, nonprofits, developers, and government partners
  
• Represents the City on local and regional boards and committees

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, economic development, or related field
  
• Minimum 7 years of executive experience in business planning/development or managerial government work, or equivalent combination of education/experience
  
• Thorough knowledge of housing policy, economic development, community development, workforce development, and public administration
  
• Knowledge of real estate market, law, and business financing
  
• Knowledge of housing finance, public incentives, grant administration, and Tax Increment Financing
  
• Excellent verbal, written, and public speaking skills
  
• Demonstrated ability in performance management, strategic planning, and cross-department collaboration

Special Requirements

Must possess a valid Class C driver's license and maintain a good driving record.

Salary & Benefits

Non-union position, Grade E82, full salary range $130,983-$165,970/year based on experience.

Benefits include free employee health insurance (with wellness incentives), 13 paid holidays, sick/vacation/personal leave, life/dental/vision/income protection insurance, choice of retirement plans including a pension plan, and more.

Applications accepted until filled. First review of resumes occurs September 18, 2026.

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Location

Portland, Maine, USA43.670822-70.284382USME