Job Opening: Business Retention and Expansion Manager with Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority

September 4, 2026

Dublin Laurens County Development Authority

Business Retention and Expansion Manager

Position Summary

The Existing Industries/Business Retention and Expansion Manager serves as the central point of coordination for existing industries’ business retention and expansion needs and special projects undertaken by the Dublin Laurens County Development Authority (DLCDA).

The ideal candidate is highly organized, self-motivated, and results-oriented, with experience managing multiple projects simultaneously and working collaboratively with public and private sector partners. This position reports directly to the President of the Dublin Laurens County Development Authority.

Key Responsibilities

Existing Industries - Business Retention and Expansion

• Schedule and host in-person meetings with existing industries in Dublin-Laurens County twice a year.
• Utilize a Business Retention and Expansion (BREP) survey or other resources to gather information from industries and provide summary feedback.
• Create new programs and service offerings for existing industries.
• Conduct an industry wage and salary study.
• Create an industry roundtable based on industry feedback.
• Create a human resources managers group based on industry feedback.
• In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, host an industry appreciation event
• In partnership with workforce development and education partners, host resource and job fairs.
• Help coordinate industry tours for students, teachers, parents and counselors.  

Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned projects and initiatives.
• Coordinate with local governments, educational institutions, workforce organizations, utility providers, nonprofit organizations, and regional and state economic development partners.
• Participate in meetings, workshops, and community engagement activities related to economic development, community development, housing, and workforce development efforts.
• Foster collaborative relationships that support project implementation and long-term community goals.
• Travel to economic development, community development, housing, and workforce development statewide functions.

Special Projects

• Assist with special initiatives and strategic projects as assigned by Authority leadership.
• Support implementation of the Authority’s strategic plan and priority initiatives.

Data Management, Reporting and Communications

• Maintain project tracking, databases, and records related to Authority initiatives.
• Develop regular project status reports and presentations for Authority leadership and board members.
• Monitor economic and community development trends and identify opportunities that may benefit Dublin and Laurens County.
• Assist with newsletters, website content, social media updates, and communication materials highlighting Authority activities and accomplishments.
• Prepare meeting summaries, agendas, and briefing materials as needed.

Program Improvement and Organizational Support

• Support continuous improvement of project management processes, reporting systems, and organizational practices.
• Assist with Authority events, programs, and other initiatives that contribute to community and economic development objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Grant Development and Administration

• Assist with research federal, state, and private funding opportunities that align with community and economic development priorities.
• Assist in the preparation and submission of grant applications, supporting documentation, and required narratives.
• Assist in coordination of grant implementation activities and monitor compliance with funding requirements.
• Assist in preparing grant reports, reimbursement requests, and performance updates for funding agencies.
• Assist with working with community partners to identify and pursue collaborative funding opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proposal and presentation development.
• Knowledge of grant programs, funding sources, and grant compliance requirements.
• Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management or database systems.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining a collaborative team approach.

Education and Experience

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (with Master’s preferred) in Public Administration, Business Administration, Economic Development, Planning, Communications, Project Management, or a related field.
• Three to five years of progressively responsible experience in project management, economic development, local government, community development, grant administration, or a related field.
• Experience preparing grant applications and administering grant-funded projects preferred.
• Experience coordinating responses to RFPs and managing complex, multi-partner initiatives preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in an office setting with occasional travel throughout Laurens County and the region for meetings, site visits, and community events. A valid Georgia driver’s license is required.

Reporting Relationship

This position reports to the President of the Dublin Laurens County Development Authority and works closely with Authority board members, local governments, educational institutions, utility providers, and regional and state partners.

Compensation and Benefits

The Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority offers a competitive salary commensurate with   experience and a benefits package that includes health, dental and vision coverage, paid time off for sick and annual leave, paid holidays, and professional development and memberships.

Resumes and letters of interest should be submitted to Mitch Griggs at: mgriggs@dlcda.com.