Economic Development Strategist

Economic Development Strategist Application due date: March 25, 2026 Location: Maple Grove, MN (Hybrid work schedule with 50% in-state travel) Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without restriction. Visa sponsorship is not available. We are the people we power. As Minnesota’s not-for-profit electric cooperative, our member-owners and their members impact every decision we make. Because their needs are our needs, and their dreams are our dreams. Summary: Are you passionate about strengthening communities, building influential partnerships, and advancing economic development across northern Minnesota? Great River Energy is seeking an experienced Economic Development Strategist to lead initiatives that deepen relationships with member-owner cooperatives, communities, businesses, civic organizations, and public leaders—while elevating our visibility, impact, and reputation across the region. This role balances economic development leadership, relationship management, and strategic communications, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and community engagement. Total Rewards: A typical starting range for this position is $116,000 - $160,000 annually. We offer market competitive base pay and adjust our offer accordingly based upon the value of the candidate’s knowledge, skills and experience. In addition, our Total Rewards strategy focuses on recognizing individual performance and rewarding business results. Our robust Total Rewards package includes exceptional benefits and retirement, a focus on continuous engagement, recognition, personal and professional development, and an emphasis on work-life effectiveness. Responsibilities: Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to: - Lead and execute strategic economic and community development initiatives that strengthen regional partnerships, enhance organizational visibility, and support member-owner cooperatives across northern Minnesota. - Promote and manage economic development programs, financing tools, and project opportunities using internal, state and federal resources, while measuring impact through data and benchmarks. - Serve as a trusted partner to assigned member-owner cooperatives by supporting economic development activities, demand management efforts, and community engagement within their service territories. - Build and maintain strong relationships with civic leaders, businesses, industry partners, and public officials; represent organizational priorities through presentations, meetings, and direct outreach. - Support economic development goals through coordinated marketing, events, stakeholder communications, and legislative outreach in partnership with internal teams and external partners. Qualifications: Education & Experience - Bachelor’s degree in economic development, public administration, planning, business, marketing, public relations, or a related field. - Minimum 5+ years of experience in economic or community development, including program leadership and stakeholder engagement. - Experience working with electric cooperatives or strong knowledge of the cooperative business model preferred. - Demonstrated success building networks with civic leaders, business partners, and public officials across Minnesota. - Experience with financial assistance programs and federal/state economic development initiatives. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities - Strong understanding of utility structures, legislation, and regulatory environments. - Strategic thinker with excellent relationship-building, communication, and public speaking skills. - Proven ability to manage complex projects, budgets, and competing priorities. - Skilled in collaboration, negotiation, and influencing outcomes. - Comfortable working independently, traveling extensively, and operating in a dynamic, evolving environment. - Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to present professionally and collaborate across all organizational levels and external partners. - Ability to develop process and technology solutions that enhance compliance and administrative efficiency; proficiency with Microsoft Office and report-writing tools. - Ability to adapt to rapidly changing business needs and maintain a valid driver’s license. - Ability to work remotely with self-directed activity to drive results. Working Conditions (Include the travel requirements; physical requirements, office/field requirements; ADA compliance requirements) Approximately 50 percent travel in northern Minnesota. While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to sit for extended periods of time, walk and stand; talk both in person and by telephone; use hands and fingers to handle, feel or operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; and lift up to 25 pounds. Vision abilities include close and distant focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate. May on occasion be exposed to loud sounds and distracting noise levels. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Apply: Qualified candidates please apply at www.greatriverenergy.com (under the Careers tab) by March 25, 2026. GRE values diversity, equity and inclusion and we are an equal employment opportunity employer.