Chief Executive Officer / General Manager

Job Description – Chief Executive Officer / General Manager

Organization: Dakota Economic Development Corporation (DEDC)
Reports To: Board of Directors
Location: Onsite
FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Summary

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) / General Manager (GM) of the Dakota Economic Development Corporation (DEDC) plays a pivotal role in driving the organization toward its strategic goals while ensuring operational excellence. This executive leadership position requires a robust understanding of organizational management, strategic planning, and community engagement, with a strong commitment to fostering economic development within Tribal communities. The CEO/GM will be responsible for building a high-performance culture, leading a dedicated team, and establishing impactful relationships with community partners to advance DEDC’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

Develop and articulate DEDC’s strategic vision and long-term goals, positioning the organization as a leader in Tribal economic development.

Collaborate with the Board of Directors to establish broad organizational strategies, ensuring alignment with Tribal objectives and community needs.

Inspire and drive innovation within the organization, fostering a forward-thinking culture that embraces new ideas and solutions.

Operational Oversight

Oversee the daily operations of DEDC, ensuring effective resource allocation and operational excellence.

Implement robust performance management systems to evaluate operational effectiveness and promote accountability across all levels of the organization.

Supervise the execution of strategic initiatives, ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and with high-quality standards.

Financial Stewardship

Ensure the financial integrity and sustainability of DEDC by overseeing comprehensive budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.

Analyze financial performance metrics to drive strategic decision-making and identify growth opportunities, ensuring the organization remains fiscally sound.

Cultivate relationships with financial partners and funding agencies to secure resources that support organizational initiatives and community development projects.

Community Engagement & Relationship Management

Develop and maintain strong relationships with Tribal councils, community organizations, and government entities, advocating for the interests of Tribal communities.

Engage with community leaders to identify needs and opportunities for collaboration, ensuring that DEDC’s initiatives align with community priorities and aspirations.

Represent DEDC at public events, conferences, and meetings, enhancing the organization’s visibility and credibility within the Tribal community and beyond.

Team Leadership & Development

Provide visionary leadership and mentorship to the management team, promoting a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Identify talent and promote professional development, ensuring team members are equipped to meet the challenges of a dynamic economic landscape.

Foster an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, and employees are empowered to take ownership of their roles.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Economic Development, or a related field; MBA or equivalent advanced degree strongly preferred.

10+ years of progressive leadership experience in a senior executive role, with a demonstrated commitment to Tribal economic development and community engagement.

Proven track record of successfully leading organizations through periods of growth and transformation, with expertise in strategic planning and operational management.

Strong financial acumen with the ability to analyze complex data and make sound business decisions that drive organizational success.

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences and foster collaborative relationships.

Core Competencies

Strategic Vision and Leadership: Ability to develop and articulate a strategic vision that inspires others and drives organizational success.

Operational Management: Expertise in overseeing daily operations and implementing systems that enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of financial principles, fiscal management, and budgetary processes.

Community Engagement: Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with community leaders and organizations.

Team Building and Development: Skills in mentoring, coaching, and developing high-performing teams.

Innovation and Problem-Solving: Capacity to identify challenges and create innovative solutions in a complex environment.

Work Environment & Travel

This position requires an onsite presence at DEDC facilities; remote work is not an option.

Frequent travel may be required for meetings, site visits, or conferences related to Tribal economic initiatives, necessitating flexibility and adaptability.

Salary

Salary is commensurate with experience, and offers will be competitive based on qualifications and industry standards, complemented by an attractive benefits package that includes:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Generous vacation and paid leave policies.

Professional development opportunities and support.

Tribal Preference Policy

In accordance with DEDC policy, Tribal Preference applies to this position:

A member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe

A descendant of a member or members of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe

A member of another federally recognized tribe

Preference applies to hiring, promotion, training, and layoffs if candidates meet minimum qualifications. Among equally qualified candidates, the most suitable in the preference category will be selected.