Executive Director

Position Overview

The Executive Director of Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development advances the economic vitality of Canton and Fulton County by attracting new businesses, supporting existing employers, and coordinating long-term development strategies.

The role includes leadership of economic development projects; budgeting and financial oversight; planning; grant development; public relations; community development; and partnership building across business, government, and community sectors.

The Partnership is seeking an experienced Executive Director who is passionate about our mission and capable of leading with excellence. The successful candidate will oversee organizational operations, guide economic development initiatives, and serve as a visible community leader and relationship builder. This position reports to—and works closely with—the SRPED Board of Directors.

About SRPED & Our Community

The Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development (SRPED) is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization dedicated to serving as a catalyst for economic and community development throughout Fulton County, Illinois. Our mission is to create community partnerships, business opportunities, and implement programs and projects that foster growth and development.

Located in west-central Illinois, Fulton County enjoys strong collaboration among local government, education, and business. The region benefits from engaged leadership, a skilled workforce, and a shared commitment to progress.

Key Responsibilities

Economic & Community Development

• Lead short- and long-term economic development strategies, including business retention, expansion, recruitment, and site selection support.
• Represent SRPED in negotiations, regional partnerships, and development initiatives.
• Lead and support community development projects and programs.
• Promote workforce development, community engagement, and quality-of-place initiatives to strengthen the local economy and livability.

Business & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as primary liaison to employers, educators, investors, and community partners.
• Build and maintain relationships with entrepreneurs, officials, and community leaders.
• Represent SRPED at local, regional, and state-level meetings and events.
• Oversee fundraising, donor engagement, and contribution development to support organizational initiatives.

Grant Development & Resource Management

• Prepare and oversee grant applications, manage reporting, and cultivate funding partnerships.
• Assist Businesses in researching new funding opportunities.

Communications & Public Relations

• Act as spokesperson and advocate for SRPED’s mission and programs.
• Promote organization successes and support investor relations, fundraising, and marketing initiatives.

Organizational & Board Leadership

• Collaborate with the Board to set strategy and monitor performance.
• Ensure alignment across staff, board, and partner organizations.
• Manage operations, budgeting, financial reporting, and program deliverables.
• Recruit, supervise, evaluate, and develop staff and volunteers.

Knowledge, Skills & Attributes

• Strong understanding of economic development principles and practices.
• Strategic, entrepreneurial thinker with excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Collaborative, self-motivated, and able to manage projects and build partnerships.
• Creative problem solver who inspires and motivates others.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (preferred fields include Economic Development, Business, Public Administration, Planning, or related disciplines)
• Experience in economic/community development, business, local government, or a related field
• Supervisory and leadership experience required
• Experience in business recruitment, grants, incentives, municipal processes, and accounting/operations strongly preferred

Job Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within region
• Ability to attend evening or weekend meetings as necessary
• Time split between office-based work, business visits, partner meetings, and conferences

Compensation & Benefits

• Full-time salaried, exempt position,
• Benefits include insurance & phone stipend, and PTO
• Residency in Fulton County strongly preferred

Equal Opportunity Statement

SRPED is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

How to Apply

Send a cover letter and resume to:
Holly Henline, Board President — [email protected]
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person