Economic Development Program Coordinator

 The Downtown Houston+ Planning & Economic Development team develops ambitious plans and strategies to enhance livability – including connectivity and placemaking – across Downtown Houston. These plans and strategies yield impactful business and property grant programs that include “Thrive” Grants – storefront grants, historic façade grants, and other retail grants – as well as “Enhance” Grants – pedestrian lighting improvement grants, mural lighting grants, etc.

The Downtown Houston+ Economic Development Program Coordinator will play a crucial role in the success of this work by assisting property owners and businesses in implementing grant funded projects. This position will focus on bridging the gap between ambitious planning and feasible implementation, ensuring that projects such as shade structures, planting beds, and enhanced lighting are realized.

About Downtown Houston+

Downtown Houston+ (DTH+) comprises organizations that champion and enhance Downtown Houston, including Central Houston Inc. / Central Houston Civic Improvement, the Downtown Redevelopment Authority, and the Houston Downtown Management District.

Central Houston, Inc. / Central Houston Civic Improvement

Founded in 1983, CHI creates a community to advocate and advance the vision for Downtown. Led by a prestigious board of corporate and community leaders, it is a non-profit organization funded by its members. Central Houston Civic Improvement is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable affiliate of CHI, and serves as the fiscal agent for catalyst projects.

Houston Downtown Management District

In 1996, the Texas legislature created the Houston Downtown Management District to protect and beautify the public realm, provide programming and marketing, and plan and catalyze economic development. Guided by a diverse board, it is funded through a fair and proportionate assessment of real property.

Downtown Redevelopment Authority / TIRZ #3

Downtown Redevelopment Authority/TIRZ #3 improves Downtown's economic well-being through capital and operational investments in parks, infrastructure, safety, and other public realm improvements. It is governed by a city-appointed or confirmed board. These improvements are made possible by reinvesting incremental property taxes within its zone's boundaries.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Grant Program Coordination:

1. Receives and responds to program inquiries and interests from qualifying stakeholders.
2. Reviews grant applications and awards in collaboration with organizational leadership to assess project scope, budget, and timeline and determine project feasibility.
3. Develops project plans with grant recipients, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
4. Coordinates with businesses and property owners to establish clear project objectives and expectations.
5. Guides property owners and businesses through the grant process, clarifying objectives and expectations.

Project Oversight & Implementation:

1. Reviews design plans and specifications to ensure adherence to grant requirements, municipal code(s), and established urban design standards.
2. Coordinates with architects, engineers, and contractors to address design challenges and refine project scope.
3. Supports construction activities to ensure timely and quality execution, including site inspections, progress monitoring, and quality control.
4. Tracks project outcomes, assesses program effectiveness, and provides data-driven recommendations for improvements in economic development initiatives.
5. Prepares progress reports and updates for Downtown Houston+ and grant recipients.

Stakeholder Engagement:

1. Communicates regularly with property owners, contractors, and other stakeholders to keep them informed about project progress and address any concerns.
2. Facilitates meetings to discuss project details and resolve issues.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Supports economic development initiatives by assisting with strategic retail planning efforts, including business attraction and activation of commercial spaces.
2. Conducts market research and analyzes economic trends related to Downtown Houston’s business environment, ensuring accuracy and quality control in organizational reports and data analyses.
3. Ensures that all grant-funded projects remain in compliance with program guidelines, municipal regulations, and reporting requirements by maintaining accurate records and documentation.
4. Identifies opportunities to streamline grant administration, project execution, and stakeholder engagement by implementing industry best practices and operational efficiencies.
5. Consistently demonstrates integrity, teamwork, respect for others, and accountability in all aspects of the job.
6. Adheres to all organizational policies and procedures and related compliance requirements at all times.
7. Performs other duties as assigned.

Core Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Project Management – Ability to plan, organize, and oversee multiple projects, ensuring timely execution and adherence to scope, budget, and deadlines.
• Effective Communication – Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey complex information clearly, facilitate discussions, and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving – Capacity to identify challenges, analyze potential solutions, and implement effective strategies to overcome obstacles in project execution.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Skill in building and maintaining relationships with business owners, contractors, government agencies, and internal teams to drive collaboration and program success.
• Attention to Detail – Ability to review project plans, financial reports, and compliance documents with precision, ensuring accuracy and adherence to program requirements.

Requirements

Minimum Required Education, Work Experience & Credentials:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Urban Planning, Architecture, Engineering, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in project management, construction, design and specifications, or real estate development.
• Strong understanding of construction processes, building codes, and permitting processes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software.
• Knowledge of, and passion for, Downtown Houston.