CEDD Director


Details

Job Description

DEFINITION/PURPOSE: Under the general direction of the General Manager, the Community and Economic Development Director (CEDD) provides strategic leadership and oversight for economic planning, community development, and resource acquisition for the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. The Director is responsible for securing and managing federal, state, and private grants, maintaining regulatory compliance, updating and developing policy, and promoting a positive and accountable work culture. In addition, the Director provides executive-level leadership over the Tribal Housing Department, Public Works Department, Environmental Department, and Project Management functions—ensuring that each division supports the Nation’s vision for sustainable growth, community well-being, and infrastructure excellence. The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated track record in leadership, policy development, fiscal management, grant administration, and creating collaborative working environments.

Skills & Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: • Expert knowledge of modern principles and practices in economic and community development, tribal governance, public administration, and g • rant management. • Strong working knowledge of federal grant compliance requirements, including 2 CFR Part 200 (Uniform Guidance). • Demonstrated success in securing and managing multimillion-dollar grant awards. • Broad understanding of housing, public infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and capital project planning within a tribal government context. • Ability to develop and revise policies that enhance operational effectiveness and community benefit. • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to lead diverse teams and build consensus across stakeholders. • Advanced analytical and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously. • Strong understanding of tribal sovereignty, jurisdictional issues, and intergovernmental relations. • Demonstrated success fostering a positive, ethical, and results-driven team culture. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION: 1) Master’s degree in Economic Development, Planning, Public Administration, Business Administration; 2)And/ or Minimum of six (6) years of progressive leadership experience in project management, economic development, or construction management, preferably within a tribal government or public-sector setting.3) Proven experience writing and managing grants, with documented compliance and successful outcomes.4) At least three (3) years of supervisory experience, with a strong record of building positive and productive working environments. 5) Knowledge and experience in tribal governance, sovereignty, and community engagement strategies. 6)Must possess a valid AZ driver’s license and able to meet FMYN insurance requirements.

Duties & Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: • Leads, plans, and implements the Nation’s community and economic development strategies in alignment with Tribal Council priorities. • Provides executive direction to the Tribal Housing Department, ensuring safe, accessible, and culturally appropriate housing programs and long-term community planning. • Oversees the Public Works Department to support the planning, construction, and maintenance of critical infrastructure, roads, facilities, and utilities. • Directs the Environmental Department in implementing sustainable practices and compliance with tribal, state, and federal environmental regulations. • Guides the Project Management Office to ensure timely, efficient, and cost-effective execution of capital improvement and community development projects. • Proactively researches and evaluates economic opportunities; conducts feasibility studies and cost-benefit analyses related to development projects. • Develops, submits, and manages federal, state, and private grants, ensuring programmatic and fiscal compliance with applicable laws, deadlines, and reporting requirements. • Maintains effective working relationships with funding agencies, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders. • Establishes and updates department policies and procedures to align with tribal priorities, legal requirements, and best practices. • Provides high-level strategic guidance to department staff to improve operations, efficiency, and team morale. • Promotes an inclusive and supportive working environment, taking appropriate actions to resolve personnel issues in a timely and professional manner. • Oversees preparation of departmental budgets; monitors expenditures to ensure alignment with goals and grant conditions. Revised 08/25 Job Code 231-80 • Ensures departmental compliance with tribal, federal, and state laws, codes, and ordinances. • Coordinates with Tribal Council, legal counsel, and community representatives on project planning and policy development. • Represents the Nation on local, state, and national committees and task forces. • Leads the recruitment, development, and performance evaluation of departmental staff, ensuring accountability and professional growth. • Identifies and removes barriers to development, including outdated local ordinances, zoning issues, or infrastructure limitations. • Prepares comprehensive reports and presentations to Tribal Council on departmental activities, proposals, and outcomes. • Able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Salary & Benefits

$120,000.00 to $150,000.00 annually

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