Summary
Description
DESCRIPTIVE STATEMENT:
Purpose of the Position
The Executive Director of the Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority (PURA), a body corporate and politic of the State of Colorado, shall serve and act as directed by the Board of Commissioners, which consists of ten (10) members who are appointed by the Mayor and subject to approval by Pueblo City Council; three (3) members appointed by Pueblo County, local School Districts, and Special Taxing Entities; and two (2) non-voting ex-officio representatives from the City of Pueblo (City) and the local School Districts. The Executive Director shall administer and oversee all functions and directives of the Board, and reports to the Chairman and Executive Committee. This role will lead stakeholder engagement and strategic initiatives to revitalize urban areas and foster economic development.
Organizational Profile
PURA was established in 1959 to promote the revitalization of Pueblo. The Executive Director and Board identify areas in need of investment and develop a plan to stimulate the area through various redevelopment tools for consideration and approval by the City Council. Once approved, the Urban Renewal Area’s (URA’s) are active for 25 years and authorize PURA to assist redevelopment projects, such as offering direct incentives to private developers or investing in public improvements.
PURA’s participation and incentives are diverse and differ in each URA; some examples are streetscape improvements, art investment, infrastructure, development and job creation. PURA works closely with the City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, School District 60, School District 70, Special Taxing Entities, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo Authority (HARP), the Pueblo Economic Development Corporation (PEDCO), the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), the private sector and numerous other entities and community groups. PURA also owns and operates the Pueblo Convention Center.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategic Planning
• Provide vision, leadership, and direction of PURA’s programs, projects, and policies.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for community revitalization, redevelopment, and economic growth.
• Work closely with the Board of Commissioners to set goals, establish priorities, and ensure alignment with community needs.
• Participate and foster cross-sector partnerships with governmental agencies, developers, nonprofits and community groups.
Administration & Operations
• Serve as Secretary to the Board and administer all projects, policies, and objectives of the Board, and ensure the efficient production and operation of the various PURA meetings including maintaining records, minutes, and reports.
• Provide the Board with data, recommendations, and analysis to support decision making.
• Coordinate with the Executive Committee and Board for annual performance reviews and strategic planning.
• Build and manage a high-performing staff to support the duties of the Executive Director, and oversee the PURA office, including all personnel, PURA obligations, and external consultants/contractors.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws or regulations that pertain to urban renewal authorities, public meetings, and Colorado Sunshine Laws.
• Maintain effective communication with the Board and all PURA partners.
• Oversee daily operations and business planning, assuring staff safety, facilities maintenance and security, human resource development/morale, and operational efficiency.
• Manage PURA’s budget, revenue streams, and financial obligations with transparency and accountability.
• Utilize funding mechanisms and incentives in accordance with PURA policies and procedures.
Development & Revitalization
• Administer, facilitate, and manage development objectives within designated project areas.
• Strategically identify, develop and stimulate private sector real estate investment opportunities.
• Work collaboratively with public and private entities to achieve development goals.
• Identify and organize funding mechanisms to achieve development goals.
• Represent PURA’s best interests throughout any negotiation process.
PURA Representation
• Represent PURA with the highest standards of professionalism and conduct when communicating with individuals at all levels.
• Attend community events, such as dinners and other social events as deemed beneficial.
• Represent PURA on community boards deemed beneficial to the organization with the direction and approval of the Board in its sole discretion.
• Partner with support entities such as municipal and other governmental agencies to achieve larger community objectives.
General
• Innovatively develop and implement best practices as discerned through observation.
• Participate as a value-adding professional of the Pueblo community team.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy, change-oriented environment.
• Perform other related duties and assignments as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
- Strong analytical skills with ability to drive change and manage long-term projects;
- Prior large scale profit and loss accountability;
- Success with managing and enhancing stakeholder relationships;
- Ability to work independently and meet all commitments and deadlines;
- Effective partnership experience with various support departments;
- Excellent / effective oral and written communication skills with strong interpersonal skills; and
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree required from an accredited institution with specialization in urban planning, public administration, finance, business administration, In lieu of these preferred majors, verifiable years of progressively responsible experience in urban renewal or a related field may be considered.;
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in planning, community development or re-development with demonstrated ability to perform as outlined above.
- Two plus years of experience in effectively managing a diverse team
- Demonstrated knowledge of tax increment financing, redevelopment law, land use, zoning, and municipal government processes.
- Demonstrated track record of leading complex redevelopment projects.
- Experience managing public meetings and compliance with Colorado Sunshine Laws.
- Experience with strategic initiative development and implementation, specifically with operating policies and procedures, and work process improvements.
- Familiarity with GIS, data analysis tools, and Opportunity Zones preferred.
TRAVEL:
• Significant local area.
• Marginally frequent regional.
• Minimal out of state.
