The Greater Livingston County Economic Development Council (GLCEDC) seeks a visionary, collaborative, and results-oriented leader to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead economic growth initiatives, strengthen regional partnerships, and advance strategic development efforts that enhance the economic vitality and quality of life throughout Livingston County.

About Livingston County
Established in 1837 and spanning 1,043 square miles in Central Illinois, Livingston County is a predominantly agricultural region. The County has a current population of approximately 36,000. The City of Pontiac, incorporated in 1856, serves as the county seat. Livingston County is well known for hosting a major segment of the historic Route 66, which attracts thousands of tourists every year from throughout the United States and many foreign countries.

The County is home to a wide range of employers representing such sectors as agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, retail, and healthcare. Those leading employers include:

• Caterpillar, Inc. (1,250)
• Vactor (725)
• OSF Healthcare/St. James Medical Center (375)
• Sheridan Pontiac (350)
• Interlake Mecalux, Inc. (230)
• Walmart (190)
• Selig Sealing Products (188)

About the Organization
The GLCEDC dedicates its purpose to support the retention and expansion of existing enterprises and the attraction of new businesses. Additionally, the GLCEDC recognizes the importance of a highly trained and competent workforce, and works diligently with Heartland Community College, The Livingston Area Career Center, and the Grundy, Kankakee, Livingston County Workforce Investment Board to respond to the needs of current and prospective employers.
As a respected advocate of the business community, the GLCEDC works with elected officials at the federal, state, and local levels to advocate for more business-friendly policies pertaining to workers’ compensation insurance, tax reform[s], and other pro-business initiatives as directed by the Board of Directors. The GLCEDC also serves as a liaison between business and government agencies to facilitate and expedite the development of new projects.

The Greater Livingston County Economic Development Council is a public-private organization, consisting of over 70 members who collectively employ over 5,000 people throughout the region. The organization’s diverse membership includes business leaders representing international corporations to local family-owned businesses, individuals, governmental entities, non-profits, healthcare, and schools. The GLCEDC office is headquartered in Pontiac.

The organization is governed by a 34-member Board of Directors representing a variety of business and government interests throughout the County. A 10-member Executive Committee is charged with overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization and working closely with the Chief Executive Officer.

Position Summary
The CEO serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of the organization, responsible for implementing the Council’s mission, advancing economic development strategies, managing organizational operations, and cultivating relationships with business, government, and community leaders. Reporting to the Executive Committee, the CEO will provide leadership in business attraction, retention, workforce initiatives, marketing, fundraising, and regional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities
• Provide strategic leadership and implement the organization’s mission, goals, and long-term economic development initiatives.
• Lead business attraction, expansion, and retention efforts throughout Livingston County.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with local governments, business leaders, investors, educational institutions, workforce organizations, and regional partners.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson and advocate for the organization and the county’s economic development priorities.
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities, funding sources, and investment partnerships.
• Oversee organizational operations, budgeting, financial management, and staff leadership.
• Support and engage the Board of Directors through regular communication, strategic planning, and policy implementation.
• Coordinate marketing and communications efforts that promote Livingston County as a desirable location for business growth and investment.
• Monitor economic trends, workforce needs, and development opportunities impacting the region.
• Represent the organization at local, regional, and state economic development meetings and events.

Desired Qualifications
The GLCEDC is seeking applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in economic development, public administration, business, finance, planning, or a related field. A Master’s degree is desirable but not required. A CEcD certification is also desirable. Applicants should also have a minimum of five years of experience in local economic development, nonprofit management, business development, public administration, or a related field. Qualified applicants must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.